Newmarket Mills

Newmarket is where the Lamprey River empties into Great Bay. At the nexus between freshwater and saltwater, Newmarket's geography was a significant factor in the development of the textile industry that came to dominate the town between 1823 and 1934. Freshwater from the Lamprey River provided power. Access to saltwater provided an economical means to receive raw materials and ship out finished products.

The influence of the Newmarket Manufacturing Company was exerted all along the Lamprey River, as far inland as Northwood, where the company owned and controlled dams to control the flow of water that would ultimately power the mills.

Much of downtown Newmarket continues to be defined by the massive mills. Visitors can readily appreciate the durability of granite and brick buildings, and how modern uses (small businesses and condominiums) have become the new occupants.  

Click the link to view a plaque with a map showing the mills in their heyday along with the view today.

Click the link to read the plaque's descriptive text.