New Hampshire's Old Man of the Mountain: A Historical Perspective with the Museum of the White Mountains' Director Meghan Doherty

On this episode of the 603podcast, Dan Egan speaks with Director Meghan Doherty from the Museum of the White Mountains, where the Old Man of the Mountain’s legacy is preserved through exhibits and lectures exploring the Old Man’s geological and cultural significance. Meghan has been instrumental in preserving the legacy of the Old Man of the Mountain. Her passion for New Hampshire’s history and her dedication to education and community engagement have made the museum a central hub for those wishing to connect with the Granite State’s rich heritage.

Back in the mid-19th century, the journey to see the Old Man was a true adventure. Visitors would take the train to Plymouth, New Hampshire, and then continue by stagecoach through Woodstock and Lincoln, making the sight of the Old Man even more rewarding. As tourism in New Hampshire grew, so did the prominence of the Old Man. By the late 1800s, it became a fixture in promotional materials and a symbol of the state's identity long before it was officially adopted as the state emblem. The Old Man of the Mountain stood proudly in Franconia Notch and the natural rock formation was beloved by generations. Megan shares that:

“For over a century, the Old Man stood watch over Franconia Notch, a silent guardian carved by nature itself.”

In May 2003, New Hampshire experienced a profound loss when the Old Man collapsed. Despite efforts to preserve it, nature took its course. Yet, the spirit of the Old Man lives on, continuing to inspire and appear on driver's licenses, road signs, and in the hearts of Granite Staters.

“The story of the Old Man of the Mountain is a testament to New Hampshire's enduring spirit. Despite its physical absence, the Old Man remains a powerful symbol of the state's natural beauty and resilient character.”

Want to learn more about the history of the White Mountains? Visit the Museum of the White Mountains in Plymouth, NH or go online to https://www.plymouth.edu/mwm/

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