Abandoned Stoves, White Mountains – New Hampshire is rich with history, and each history buff is drawn to certain parts of the history. I love the variety of artifacts that remain in the White Mountain National Forest. And today, I am going to share a few of the unique stoves (considered artifacts) I have photographed over the years.
During the 19th and 20th-century, crude dwellings were built throughout the White Mountains to house railroad workers, local residents, and tourists. Most dwellings were built near a water source. And a good flowing brook appears to have been preferred over the large body of waters. Even in the 19th and early 20th-century people were aware of the importance of water.
When the time came to vacant these dwellings, the occupiers would just walk out the door never to return. More than likely they left with only suitcases. Can you imagine packing a suitcase right now and leaving your home for good?
Some dwellings were burned to the ground when vacated, but many were left to rot in the forest. Today, little remains at many of these dwelling sites and they are forever forgotten. However, a rusty stove in the forest can be the only indication of a dwelling.
Most old stoves, like the ones in this blog article, in the White Mountain National Forest are historical artifacts. They help tell the story of the White Mountains. And sometimes a stove can help determine the layout of an old dwelling, and this benefits historians when researching a forgotten settlement deep in the forest. So if you do find an old stove in the National Forest, take only pictures, and leave it where you find it.
As you look at the above stove, consider this, it more than likely has not been moved since the day the loggers placed it into this early 1900s logging camp. The walls and floors of the camp rotted away many years ago, but when the camp was still standing this is likely where the stove was within the camp building.
Keep in mind that the removal of historical or archaeological artifacts from federal lands without a permit is a violation of federal law. The above images can be licensed for publications by clicking on the image you are interested in.
Happy image making..
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Owner of ScenicNH Photography LLC
Erin Paul is a professional photographer, writer, and author who specializes in environmental conservation and historic preservation photography mainly in the New Hampshire White Mountains. His work is published worldwide, and publication credits include: Appalachian Mountain Club, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Backpacker Magazine, and The Wilderness Society.
ScenicNH Photography LLC
Specializing in environmental conservation and historic preservation photography mainly in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire, Erin Paul’s photography and writing focuses on the history of the White Mountains, and telling the story of abandoned places and forgotten historical sites.