Incorporated: 1653
Population: 21,002
County Name: Rockingham
(county map)
City Contact:
City of Portsmouth
1 Junkins Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801

Phone: 603-431-2000
Fax: 603-427-1593
Website: City of Portsmouth

Origin:
First settled in 1630 as Piscataqua, the settlement was soon named Strawberry Banke. The name Portsmouth was adopted in 1653 to honor the colony's founder, John Mason, captain of the port in Portsmouth, England. Portsmouth became the New Hampshire province's capital in 1679. It was home to many famous colonials, such as William Whipple, signer of the Declaration of Independence; Governor John Langdon; and John Paul Jones, naval hero. Portsmouth was incorporated as a city in 1849. Parts of the original Strawberry Banke settlement have been preserved as a museum.

More about Portsmouth:
The historic city of Portsmouth is set against the backdrop of the Piscataqua River. A stroll through the beautiful Prescott Park is a perfect way to spend a summer day. Or, visit the downtown shopping area or dine along the waterfront at any time of year.

Strawbery Banke, a 10-acre living museum is popular with visitors to the area. Learn about the settlers that inhabited the neighborhood known for 400 years as Puddle Dock. Visit historic homes and relax in period gardens. Or, wander through town and step back in time with houses like the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion or the Jackson House.