It is said that Campton took its name from an early surveyor’s camp in the region. It is also said that Governor Wentworth, when he granted the original charter in 1761, wanted to commemorate one of his friends, Spencer Compton, Earl of Wilmington. Compton’s influence had helped Wentworth become governor in 1741.
In those days, one would say the letter “a” broader, thus Compton became Campton. Most of its earlier settlers came from Connecticut. John Marsh, an early grantee, had a nephew, Sylvester Marsh, who built the famous cog railroad to Mount Washington after making his fortune in Chicago. For more historical information about Campton, please visit the Campton Historical Society website.
Campton has a Town Meeting form of government, in which residents meet annually in March to decide local matters. A board of 5-elected Selectmen, and a Town Administrator see to the day-to-day operation of the town. Planning, zoning, and conservation committees are staffed by volunteers.:
| County | Grafton |
| Population: | 3,294 |
| Registered Voters: | 2,343 |
| Zoning: | Yes |
| Tourism Region | White Mountains |
| Planning Commission: | North Country Council |
| Regional Development | Grafton County Economic Development Council |
| Election Districts | |
| US Congress | District 2 |
| Executive Council | District 1 |
| State Senate | District 2 |
| State Representative | District 7 |
| Incorporated: 1767 | |
| More Info at Wikipedia |