TAYLOR STATE FOREST
The Taylor State Forest is a scenic and vibrant woodland that stretches over 5,000 acres. This natural treasure embodies the pristine beauty of the region with its lush greenery, sparkling streams, and diverse wildlife. The forest presents a perfect haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing in its numerous ponds. With its peaceful ambiance and well-maintained trails, the Taylor State Forest offers visitors a truly immersive and memorable experience in the heart of New Hampshire's natural splendor.
1. Native American Land: Before European colonization, the land now encompassed by Taylor State Forest was part of the hunting and fishing grounds of various Native American tribes, including the Abenaki people.
2. Colonial Settlement: In the early 1700s, European settlers began to establish communities in the region surrounding the forest. The land was originally part of the colonial settlement of Wilton, New Hampshire.
3. Logging Industry: By the 1800s, the area had become a hub for the booming logging industry in New England. The abundance of timber in the region attracted skilled loggers, and numerous sawmills and logging camps sprouted up in the area.
4. Ownership Changes: Over the years, the ownership of the land shifted multiple times. At various points, the land belonged to individuals and corporations involved in timber harvesting and other resource-based industries.
5. Taylor Family: In the early 1900s, the Taylor family, particularly R. Loring Taylor, played a pivotal role in the preservation and management of the forest. R. Loring Taylor was an influential conservationist and philanthropist who acquired and protected vast areas of forestland in New Hampshire, including what is now Taylor State Forest.
6. State Acquisition: In 1938, the Taylor family sold their land to the state of New Hampshire for $64,000 (a significantly lower price than the market value) with the condition that it be designated as a forest reserve. This act of conservation ensured the preservation of the forest for future generations.
7. Taylor State Forest: Following the state acquisition, the forest was named "Taylor State Forest" in honor of the Taylor family's conservation efforts. It was managed by the New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands, which oversees its conservation, maintenance, and recreational activities to this day.