Hampton was first settled in the early 1700s as Windham Village. The first residents were primarily farmers who worked tirelessly to establish the early agricultural landscape of the town. Throughout the years Hampton has played its part in American history. In the early years of our country, residents provided food and military support to Washington’s men during the Revolutionary War. In the 18th and 19th century, while continuing the tradition of farming, residents worked in local mills during the Industrial Revolution.

Things changed dramatically in 1872 when the railroad became a vital element of the culture. A stop in Hampton allowed farmers to sell their harvest over a much larger area also provided easy transport for locals and visitors. Summer visitors provided a new type of business in the area: tourism, bringing welcome revenue to the town. When the rail service was eliminated in 1955, Hampton returned to its traditions of farming and rural life. Today it is populated by a wide range of people including farmers, artists, tradesmen, town officials, teacher and volunteers, all committed to the community, its traditions and a priority of preserving natural spaces.