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Americans traveled between fishing grounds on Lake Winnipesaukee and the Merrimack River.
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White settlers settled along the river for easy water access and good fishing.
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The river powered industrial development in the late 1800 and early 1900’s.
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A railroad was built along the river’s bank to carry freight between mills.
 
Upside Down Bridge
Built in 1896

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Only existing example of Upside Down Covered Bridge in United States.
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Registered as a National Historic Landmark.
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Bridge has 3 spans with a total length of 231 feet.
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Siding covering support structure has been removed.
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Railroad used to provide passenger service to Old Station on Franklin Street and connection to Northern Line in W. Franklin.
 
Paper Mill Remains

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Located upstream of Sulfite Bridge.
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Fed the Warren F. Daniels pulp mill.
 
______________________________________________________________________________
April 1999 – Public Hearing was held
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Concerned citizens from 13 area communities discussed the possibility of a regional trail.
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Following the meeting volunteers established a committee to develop a multi-use trail in Franklin, Tilton and Northfield.