Gravesite of Dixville’s First Settlers in Dixville, New Hampshire

In 1805, Lt. Col. Timothy Dix of Amherst, New Hampshire was granted a parcel of land deep within the imposing mountains of the Great North Woods. The land came with just one stipulation: Dix had five years to have the land settled by at least thirty residents. Dix named the town Dixville (fittingly enough) but didn't have too much time to make good on his promise, as he would become involved in fighting the War of 1812, dying in 1813 in battle. Granite State super-politician Daniel Webster, a friend and sponsor of Dix, took it upon himself to try and incorporate the area. But before he did, so

This story was reported by Atlas Obscura - Latest Articles and Places. EUROPES curates Europe's most relevant coverage — read the full report at the original source.