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Agriculture: New Hampshire's climate and soil conditions weren't particularly well suited for large-scale farming, but colonists engaged in subsistence farming to meet their basic food needs. They grew crops like corn, wheat, oats, barley, and potatoes. Livestock, including cattle, pigs, sheep, and chickens, were also raised for food.
Fishing and Whaling: New Hampshire had a coastline that provided ample opportunities for fishing. Cod, haddock, and mackerel were among the abundant species that colonists caught. Some individuals engaged in whaling, hunting whales like the humpback and right whale for their valuable oil and blubber.
Lumbering and Shipbuilding: New Hampshire had abundant forests that supplied timber for the shipbuilding industry. Colonists established sawmills and shipyards, constructing vessels such as fishing boats, merchant ships, and warships. The shipbuilding industry created jobs for carpenters, blacksmiths, sailmakers, and other skilled laborers.
Trade: Colonists engaged in trade with other colonies and countries, exchanging goods and resources. They exported lumber, fish, and whale products, and imported items like manufactured goods, textiles, and spices from Europe.
Manufacturing: As the colony developed and grew, manufacturing began to emerge. Industries such as textiles, paper, and iron production provided employment opportunities for colonists.
Professional Services: Skilled individuals like doctors, lawyers, teachers, and ministers also earned a living by providing essential services to the community.
Government Service: The colonial government employed individuals in various roles, including magistrates, judges, sheriffs, and constables. These positions offered a source of income and contributed to the functioning of the colony.
Overall, the colonists in New Hampshire relied on a combination of agriculture, fishing, whaling, lumbering, shipbuilding, trade, manufacturing, and professional services to sustain their livelihoods.