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History of Village Shops

The Village Shops in Lincoln, New Hampshire, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Originally built as a sawmill by James E. Henry in the 1800s, the mill provided lumber for the local community and helped to fuel the region’s growing economy.

As time went on, the mill changed hands and was eventually sold to the Parker Young Company, which transformed the facility into a paper mill. The new owners invested heavily in the site, upgrading the machinery and expanding the operation to meet the demands of the growing paper industry.

Over the years, the paper mill became a vital part of the Lincoln community, providing employment for many of its residents and supporting the local economy. However, as the paper industry began to decline in the latter half of the 20th century, the mill eventually closed its doors in the 1970s.

Following the closure of the paper mill, the Village Shops was established on the site, transforming the historic mill into a thriving retail destination. Today, visitors can explore the shops, which offer a wide variety of unique gifts, crafts, and clothing, as well as dining options.

Despite its transformation into a retail destination, the Village Shops remains deeply rooted in the region’s rich history. The site is a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the early settlers who helped to build and grow the community, and it continues to serve as a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike.

Our History.

J.E Henry Built the Sawmill

1894

Parker Young Company Purchased the Paper Mill

1917

The Paper Mill Closed for Good

1980

The Village Shops, Formerly the Millfront Marketplace Opened for Business

1985
1902

The Henry Paper Company Created the Pulp and Paper Mill

1950

The Mill Reorganized into the Franconia Paper Corporation

1984

Construction began to convert the old mill into a shopping center

Present Day
1894

J.E Henry Built the Sawmill

1902

The Henry Paper Company Created the Pulp and Paper Mill

1917

Parker Young Company Purchased the Paper Mill

1950

The Mill Reorganized into the Franconia Paper Corporation

1980

The Paper Mill Closed for Good

1984

Construction began to convert the old mill into a shopping center

1985

The Village Shops, Formerly the Millfront Marketplace Opened for Business

Present Day