New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte has drawn attention to the state's Pine Tree Riot of 1772, suggesting it may have inspired the more famous Boston Tea Party a year and a half later. Ayotte stated that the riot was a colonial protest against British efforts to seize white pine trees for the Royal Navy's shipbuilding needs.
"Before the Boston Tea Party, we had the Pine Tree Riots here in New Hampshire," Ayotte told Fox News Digital. "That's because the British tried to come in and tax our pine trees and take them for their own, and we said no way."
The British policy reserved trees larger than 12 inches in diameter for naval use, a restriction that sparked significant colonial opposition. Ayotte highlighted the riot as an early demonstration of colonists' ability to defy British mandates, positioning New Hampshire as an "early joiner of the revolution."
New Hampshire's contributions to the nation's founding are being featured at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington D.C. The state's exhibit includes a mention of the Pine Tree Riot and showcases its history, including being the first state to draft its own constitution and the ninth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, thereby serving as the decisive vote for its adoption.
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the state's fair exhibit features a video with prominent figures reading from the Declaration of Independence and shares historical facts about New Hampshire. Attendees can also expect to receive New Hampshire maple syrup.
Back in New Hampshire, the Statehouse visitors center will display significant historical documents, including one of the Dunlap Broadsides—the first printings of the Declaration of Independence—and an original 1823 William J. Stone engraving of the document. The governor, who is seeking re-election, noted that cities and towns across New Hampshire are preparing for traditional Fourth of July celebrations, including parades and fireworks, with her scheduled to participate in multiple events.