Celebrating New Hampshire’s Revolutionary Role: Remembering the Pine Tree Riot

As the United States commemorates its 250th year of independence, many remember Massachusetts’ significant role in the American Revolution. However, New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte urges that the Pine Tree Riot in her state deserves recognition. This event might have inspired the famous Boston Tea Party that followed a year and a half later.

Gov. Ayotte explained, “Before the Boston Tea Party, we had the Pine Tree Riots here in New Hampshire. The British tried to tax our pine trees and take them, and we said no way.” This riot opposed Britain’s longstanding policy, which reserved large White pine trees for the Royal Navy’s ship masts.

The Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. pays tribute to New Hampshire’s unique history through its exhibit, particularly highlighting the Pine Tree Riot of 1772. The state is proud of its role, having been the ninth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution and the first to draft its own.

The New Hampshire exhibit celebrates the state’s early contributions to the nation’s history, featuring a video with state figures reading from the Declaration of Independence and showcasing New Hampshire’s famous maple syrup.

In addition to participating in the fair, New Hampshire plans to open its Statehouse visitors center, showcasing special historical documents like a Dunlap Broadside, which is among the first printings of the Declaration of Independence. The center will also display one of the original 1823 William J. Stone engravings of the document.

Cities and towns across New Hampshire continue to lead Independence Day celebrations with parades, fairs, and fireworks. This year, Gov. Ayotte, who is running for re-election, will march in four parades, expressing her enthusiasm for the festivities.

Paul Steinhauser reports on the national campaign trail for Fox News.