Exeter, New Hampshire once thrived as a town of ship-builders and outfitters. As the railroad increased in popularity, so did the industries of Exeter.
The buildings of Exeter Station Properties date back to the late 19th century and were built specifically to house manufacturing businesses that needed their raw materials supplied by the adjacent railroad. In fact, there is still a railroad spur that enters the parking area behind One Rockingham.
The site was once home to the Rockingham Machine Company, which manufactured burnished heels, edge trimmings and beading for factory-made shoes of the day. The buildings have also been home to businesses such as wooden & paper box manufacturing, a textile mill and then, of course, shoes returned to the property when the Alrose Shoe Company was built circa 1920.
The above historical map from 1896 depicts the land as the industrial space nearest the railroad depot.
This bird’s eye view of the area dating back to 1884 reflects that the land had yet to be developed.