Since we had never crossed the border into Bow, which for the longest time we pictured as a moat like body of water filled with venomous snakes and great white sharks, we figured this was the perfect time to brush up on all things Bow.
Just to clarify: there is not actually a moat filled with dangerous creatures. There are real roads that lead right into Bow. We know, crazy, huh?
Anyway, so we took to the Google machine last week to see what we could find out about our new found friend to the south. Want to know what we found out? Then you might want to keep reading.
∎ Bow was granted by the authorities of New Hampshire, to Jonathan Wiggin and others, in 1727.
∎ It was originally 9 square miles. Although it’s a little bigger these days at a whopping 28.4 square miles, of which 28 square miles is land.
∎ The first census in 1790 said Bow had 568 residents and as of 2010, the number stood at 7,519. But it’s been five years, so who knows where the town population stands. And our attempt to count everyone in town didn’t quite go as planned. Like, we lost count after we used up all our fingers and toes.
∎ Part of the boundary lies in the Merrimack River. So maybe there are sharks patrolling the town line after all. If we see anything in our travels, we’ll let you know.
∎ Legend has it that the town got its name from its location at the bow in the Merrimack River. Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to find the source of the legend to confirm or deny the claim.
∎ There are three road names using the town, South Bow Road, Bow Center Road and Bow Bog Road. No word if there will be a Bow Insider Road?
∎ We’d try to accurately explain the shape of the town according to Google Maps, but the only thing we could really come up with was a chunky looking New Hampshire laying on its back. But at least that gives you some sort of visual.
∎ Sam Knox, who just so happened to play three years of professional football, was born there and went to Concord High well before Bow had its own high school. John Ordway, a native of Bow, was an influential member of the Lewis and Clark expedition, so it’s safe to say he enjoyed walking quite a bit. It’s also the birthplace of Dick Swett. And that’s all we have to say on that one.
∎ Bow is home to the largest liquor distribution center in the state. So the next time you’re having an after work cocktail, you can imagine its great beginning in Bow.
∎ They do not check passports when you enter the town. At least they didn’t for us.
∎ Santa has his own special place at Bow Town Pond. But that’s probably not that unusual since Santa really has a special place in every community.
∎ There is one bank, three schools and not a single parking meter to speak of.
∎ Surprisingly, those things you use to shoot arrows with are not made in the town.
