Bethlehem, NH
Posted by: 
silverquill
N 44° 18.969 W 071° 43.196
19T E 283091 N 4910586
Located in northern New Hampshire, Bethlehem was once a spectacular, thriving vacation and retreat center for the rich arriving by train from New York and beyond. Now, it is more famous for its Christmas post mark, and outdoor activities.
Waymark Code: WMBJHM
Location: New Hampshire, United States
Date Posted: 05/26/2011
Views: 6
Old Maplewood Train Station
Bethlehem, New Hampshire
The welcome sign for Bethlehem, New Hampshire, depicts the old Maplewood Train Station, one of as many as five depots hosting seven trains daily during the town's heyday as a resort center for the rich and famous. Billed as the highest town in New Hampshire, many visitors came to escape the city and enjoy the fresh air touted as a benefit for those with allergies and respiratory ailments. At one time as many as thirty hotels lined the town's streets. and the lavish annual "Coaching Parade" brought expensive and elaborate entries.
From an early industrial center of wood, grist and textile mills, to the arrival of the railroad with its thousands of tourists, to a quiet town of about 2,000, Bethlehem remains a gem surrounded by some of New Hampshire's most spectacular mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts still find this place a cure for stress and the enjoyment of all nature has to offer.
The post office handles over 50,000 pieces of mail at Christmas time for people wanting the special Bethlehem postmark.