National New Hampshire Day is observed annually on September 7, celebrating New Hampshire's significance as the ninth of the Thirteen Colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution and join the Union. The day was established by National Day Calendar as part of its National State Days project, which honors each state in the order they joined the Union. New Hampshire, known as "The Granite State" due to its extensive granite formations, has a rich history that includes being inhabited by Algonquian-speaking Abenaki tribes before European colonization. The first permanent European settlement was established in Dover in 1623. During the American Revolution, New Hampshire was notable for being the first colony to create an independent government and constitution in January 1776. The state ratified the Constitution on June 21, 1788. Observances of National New Hampshire Day may include educational events and activities that highlight the state's history and contributions to the nation.