Welcome to Rockingham County NHGenWeb

 My name is Bob Jenkins and I am the Rockingham County Coordinator.

 We have many genealogical resources available here.

 We would appreciate any contributions you would like
 to make to this site.
 
 

Rockingham County, New Hampshire

Rockingham County was established in 1769, one of New Hampshire’s original counties formed as colonial settlements expanded and required clearer administrative organization. It was named for Charles Watson-Wentworth, the 2nd Marquess of Rockingham, reflecting the province’s political ties to Britain in the years leading up to the American Revolution.

The region’s roots reach back to the early 1600s. Portsmouth, founded as a fishing and trading settlement, quickly grew into a major seaport and shipbuilding center. Nearby towns—Exeter, Hampton, Rye, Dover, and New Castle—developed as some of New England’s earliest communities, forming a dense cluster of maritime, agricultural, and civic life along the Seacoast.

Rockingham County played a significant role during the Revolution. Exeter became the seat of New Hampshire’s revolutionary government, while coastal defenses protected Portsmouth Harbor and the historic Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, one of the oldest continuously operating shipyards in the United States.

As the county grew through the 19th century, its economy blended maritime trade, farming, small industry, and mill villages along its rivers. This long history produced extensive genealogical records documenting early settlers, mariners, craftsmen, and farming families.

Selection of the County Seat

When Rockingham County was formed, Exeter was chosen as the county seat due to its political importance and established civic infrastructure. It served in that role for more than two centuries. In 1997, the county seat was officially moved to Brentwood, where the modern Rockingham County Complex now houses the county courthouse and administrative offices.