Governor John Bell

JOHN BELL, the eighteenth governor of New Hampshire and father of New Hampshire Governor Charles H. Bell, was born in Londonberry, New Hampshire on July 20, 1765. His education was limited and attained in the common schools of his native state. Bell first entered politics as a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, a position he held from 1799 to 1800. He also was a member of the New Hampshire State Senate from 1803 to 1804; served as councilor from 1817 to 1823; and was the Rockingham County sheriff from 1823 to 1828. Bell next secured the National Republican gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor by a popular vote in 1828. During his tenure, the Exeter Savings Bank was chartered; new farming methods were endorsed; several new schools were founded; and manufacturing within the state was increased. After running unsuccessfully for reelection, Bell retired from public service. He continued to stay active in his farming interests. Governor John Bell passed away on March 22, 1836, and was buried in the Village Cemetery in Chester, New Hampshire.