Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a city in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, spread along the mouth of the Piscataqua River near the Maine border. Brick buildings from several centuries line the streets, and historic houses stand close to the waterfront.

The settlement was founded in 1630 as Strawbery Banke and became the first capital of New Hampshire. Over time it grew into a major trading port and played a role in New England maritime history.

The Strawbery Banke Museum preserves houses and workshops dating from 1695 through 1950, showing how people lived across different centuries. Visitors walk through furnished rooms and see tools that families used in their daily routines.

Portsmouth International Airport at Pease connects the area to other regions and lies nearby. The downtown area is walkable, with many restaurants and shops in the historic streets.

The John Paul Jones House from 1758 preserves rooms where the commander lived during the Revolutionary War. Period furniture fills the interior, and small displays show items linked to his naval service.

Location: Rockingham County

Inception: 1630

Elevation above the sea: 6 m

Address: Portsmouth, NH 03801, USA

Website: http://cityofportsmouth.com

GPS coordinates: 43.07572,-70.76075

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:02