Dine At The Historic Spot In New Hampshire Where A Peace Treaty Was Signed
By Ken MacGray|Published February 28, 2023
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Ken MacGray
Author
Hey! I'm a freelance writer and guidebook author. I've authored "New Hampshire's 52 With A View - A Hiker's Guide", serve as editor of Appalachian Mountain Club's "Southern New Hampshire Trail Guide", and and am co-editor of the "White Mountain Guide", also for AMC. I'm currently beginning work on the 6th Edition of AMC's Southern New Hampshire Trail Guide, which will be published in 2025. I live in southern New Hampshire and can usually be found wandering throughout the state's mountains and forests.
You know after you get together with friends for a great meal, there’s always discussion on who’s going to pick up the check? That decision pales in comparison to when this Portsmouth, New Hampshire location was the setting that ended an international conflict.
The Library Restaurant is located in the historic The Rockingham House. It was constructed in 1785 as the personal residence of Judge Woodbury Langdon.
The Library Restaurant describes itself as "elegantly casual" in keeping with its origins. Its sophisticated and upscale menu is sure to satisfy those who appreciate fine cuisine.
The restaurant's interior retains much of the beauty of the original residence. Its grandeur has been well-preserved in the hand-carved mahogany, original lighting fixtures, and Italian marble.
Throughout its history, many notable figures have stayed and dined here, including John F. Kennedy, George Washington, Chester Arthur, William Taft, and James K. Polk.
In 1905, after negotiations between Russian and Japanese officials, the Treaty of Portsmouth was formally signed at The Rockingham. This put an end to the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905.
President Theodore Roosevelt was a key figure in the negotiations between the two countries. For his efforts in brokering peace, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1906.
To learn more about the history of The Library Restaurant and who stayed and ate there, visit its website. You can also view its menus and keep up to date on its Facebook page.