Dover

Dover is a city in New Hampshire's coastal region that extends along the Cochecho River at an elevation of about 50 feet. The downtown area features numerous brick buildings that form a connected historic core with distinct neighborhoods radiating outward.

The Hilton brothers established the settlement in 1623 as New Hampshire's first permanent community, initially called Bristol. The name changed to Dover in 1637, and it later became a major hub for textile manufacturing and river commerce.

The Dover Art Walk happens every month with local artists displaying work throughout downtown streets. The Cochecho Arts Festival brings theater and music performances during summer, drawing crowds to outdoor venues.

The city sits on multiple state routes including New Hampshire Routes 4, 9, 16, 108, and 155, making navigation straightforward. The flat terrain along the Cochecho River makes walking through downtown easy and accessible for most visitors.

In 1828, the first women's labor strike in the United States occurred here when female textile workers protested against poor working conditions. This event marked a turning point in the fight for workers' rights and women's activism.

Location: Strafford County

Inception: 1623

Elevation above the sea: 15 m

Website: http://ci.dover.nh.us

GPS coordinates: 43.19528,-70.87500

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:41