Sanbornton: A history that spans 268 years

LAKES REGION PROFILES by Mary O'Neill, Sales Associate at Roche Realty Group

The town of Sanbornton traces its history back to 1748 when 60 men petitioned King George II for a township. According to Mildred Coombs in her document "Sanbornton N.H. 1770-1970," 80 lots were drawn out from the Great Bay to the Pemigewasset River. The area was called "Sanborn Town" since at least 12 of the original grantees had the name Sanborn. Each man was required to clear three acres, build a house, and live on that land for six years, at which time they were obligated to clear six more acres. According to early records, by 1768 there were 32 families in the area. In March of 1770, a petition for incorporation was made and granted by King George III to "Sanbornton."

Today, Sanbornton is a vibrant community perched between the Pemigewasset River and Lake Winnisquam. The historic center of town exemplifies all the charm of a fine New England town. Historic buildings house the town library and Sanbornton Historical Society, and a large number of homes built by the early settlers frame the quaint streets. The views are varied, from pastoral fields filled with grazing cattle to sparkling vistas over pristine mountains and water bodies. The population of Sanbornton is around 3,000 and the average home value is $272,257. According to the "Lifestyle Finder," accessible on the Roche Realty Group website, the average selling price for a home in Sanbornton in the past year was $217,104.

A primitive sketch titled "Sanbornton Square" in Ms. Coombs' document notes the locations of numerous 18th century businesses: Taylor's Blacksmith Shop, Great Store of Andrew Lovejoy, Ward's Distillery, Sanborn's Harness & Saddlery Shop, Tin Smith Shop, Bang's Tavern, Chas Lane's Printing & Book Binding, and others. Today Sanbornton Square is not as active. Nowadays the town's many establishments and activities are spread throughout its hills.

Balanced on the top of Steele Hill overlooking Winnipesaukee, Winnisquam, and the White Mountains is Steele Hill Resort, set amongst 500 acres. Guests can golf, snowmobile, snowshoe, sled, hike and fish. Amenities include year-round swimming pools and hot tubs in a conservatory, tennis and racquetball courts, exercise rooms, roman spa, enclosed observation tower, and The Hilltop Restaurant. The resort is a scenic venue for vacations, conferences, and weddings and is close to ski destinations such as Gunstock Mountain, Waterville Valley, and Cannon Mountain. The resort also offers time shares. Visit www.steelehillresorts.com for more information.

The Lake House at Ferry Point Inn is a delightful stay nestled on the edge of Lake Winnisquam. It is operated by John and Cindy Becker. The picturesque circa 1800 Victorian inn was built as a summer retreat for the Pillsbury family and affords guests a peaceful spot to enjoy the lake and surroundings. Guests can access the lake via a private beach or with kayaks. The inn is a registered American Historic Inn property and was awarded a "Certificate of Excellence" from TripAdvisor in 2015. There are well over 100 five-star reviews for the inn on TripAdvisor. Linda from Washington state called the inn "an ideal idyll...your needs will be met here! You can relax in the comfy living room, grab a cookie and coffee, or sit in the gazebo and watch the lake go by." Gene A. from South Carolina said, "The setting is superb, the historical aspect terrific, and the food was great, but the hospitality of Cindy and John is what we'll remember most." For more information, go to www.new-hampshire-inn.com.

Tucked in a serene spot, Cadbury Woods Farm is an equine training facility and offers horseback riding lessons tailored to each student's riding level. The farm was founded in 1995 and is spearheaded by USDF Silver Medalist Elizabeth Oellers, who has 43 years of experience with horses. Her passion is to teach her students to ride "for harmony and balance" – not just to learn the mechanics of horseback riding, but the whole picture including the instinctual behavior of the horse, biomechanics, and classical riding principles. A student, Lisa, said, "The atmosphere around the barn is upbeat, with everyone friendly and supportive of each other ... Elizabeth teaches what is needed to be a really good rider, and she does it in a way that I always feel inspired, already looking forward to my next lesson." Kim W. had this to say: "If you really want to learn how to ride, I would highly suggest Elizabeth for lessons, or training with your horse." In addition to the year-round lesson program and training, Cadbury Woods offers week-long Kids Camp sessions in the summer. For information visit www.cadburywoodsfarm.com.

Heritage Farm Pancake House delights with its farm fresh family style breakfast. Your table will be spread with a goodness of pancakes, maple syrup, eggs, bacon, and home fries. Each person serves themselves from the abundance – like a family gathered around their home table. In the winter months, you can arrange to take a wagon or sleigh ride, which is particularly enchanting in the evening with the addition of a bonfire. Learn more at www.heritagefarm.net.

Surowiec Farm has been a part of the Surowiec family since 1917. In season, you can pick your own blueberries and apples. The summer months finds the Surowiec's farm stand filled with fresh vegetables, strawberries, homemade jams and jellies, mustard, relish, and pickles. They also offer a selection of locally made products, such as fresh ice cream and cheese from Sandwich Creamery, smoke cheese and meat from Fox County Smokehouse, and maple products from Just Maple. In 2011, Surowiec Farm started a Community Supported Agriculture program, where members sign up and pay for a share at the start of the season and pick up their weekly share on a specified day during the harvest season. More details can be found at www.surowiecfarm.com.

Also, Sanbornton is home to the well-respected private school Sant Bani, an independent K-8 day school founded in 1973. The school emphasizes collaboration and service to others, and the small class sizes and committed faculty provides a conducive atmosphere for learning.

Your name does not have to be Sanborn to enjoy the town of Sanbornton. The above are just a few of the many wonderful establishments and activities experienced by residents and visitors alike.

Please feel free to visit www.rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market. Mary O'Neill is a sales associate at Roche Realty Group in Meredith & Laconia, NH and can be reached at 366-6306. rocherealty.com.

Two well-established businesses in Sanbornton are Cadbury Woods Farm and The Lake House at Ferry Point Inn.