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Selectmen back request to state for highway marker honoring Chief Passaconaway
Summary
After a presentation by local historians, the Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to support a Heritage Commission request that New Hampshire place a historical highway marker in Litchfield recognizing Chief Passaconaway and the Natakuk/Pennacook people.
The Board of Selectmen on June 22 voted to endorse a Heritage Commission proposal asking the State of New Hampshire to place a historical highway marker in Litchfield honoring Chief Passaconaway and the Natakuk (Pennacook) people.
John Croce, who compiled the commission's 28-page submission, summarized archival evidence that he said shows Passaconaway was a prominent 16th- and 17th-century leader. "We get three chances if we don't get accepted in the three," Croce said, describing the application and review process and noting the packet includes transcribed letters and surveyor material the commission used to map historical boundaries.
Commission representatives told the board they proposed a site near Robin Street where a turnout and small park would allow visitors to stop safely. The presenters said the state covers installation and ongoing maintenance for approved markers.
Selectmen made a formal motion to approve the commission's request and allow staff to send a letter of support to the state. The motion carried 5-0-0.
The board asked staff to coordinate with the Heritage Commission and the highway department on a proposed text and the specific location before the application is submitted to Concord.
The marker, if approved by state authorities, would add an official roadside recognition of the town's Indigenous history and would be maintained by the state thereafter.
