Ayotte states that the Pine Tree Riot in New Hampshire influenced the Boston Tea Party.

NASHUA, N.H. – Reflections on Revolutionary History

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the spotlight is turning to the actions of the Massachusetts colonists that ignited the American Revolution. Yet, Governor Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire—a state among the original 13 colonies—recently pointed out that the Pine Tree Riots in her state were also significant, possibly influencing the Boston Tea Party a year and a half later.

“Before the Boston Tea Party, there was a Pine Tree Riot here in New Hampshire because the British came and wanted to tax our pine trees for their own use, and we stood against it,” Ayotte recounted.

The riots erupted over a British policy that prevented colonists from cutting down large white pine trees needed for Royal Navy ships. This moment was crucial as it illustrated that colonists were willing to resist British authority.

“We were early participants in the revolution, and it makes us very proud to be Americans,” the governor emphasized. “New Hampshire has a unique place in the narrative of this country.”

She also noted that New Hampshire was the ninth state to ratify the Constitution, playing a key role in its enactment, and was the first state to create its own Constitution.

The Pine Tree Riot and the state’s first Constitution are showcased in New Hampshire’s exhibit at the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C.

“New Hampshire is extremely proud to participate in the National Mall fair. We’re sharing our history through videos of local celebrities reading the Declaration of Independence, and, of course, we’re giving away some delicious New Hampshire maple syrup,” Ayotte shared.

A visitor center will also be opened at the state capitol, featuring significant documents from the state’s history, as Ayotte returns to her roots in the Granite State.

Among the items on display will be a Dunlap broadside, the first printed version of the Declaration of Independence, alongside an original 1823 engraving by William J. Stone.

New Hampshire’s cities and towns have a long tradition of celebrating Independence Day with parades, fairs, and fireworks, and this year is no different. Ayotte, a former senator running for re-election, plans to take part in four Fourth of July parades over the holiday.