Day 50 – Portsmouth, New Hampshire
60 miles
Fun Facts about Portsmouth:
Portsmouth was founded in 1653 by John Mason. It was named Portsmouth, because John
Mason was the captain of the port of Portsmouth, England, in the county of Hampshire.
New Hampshire was one of the original 13 colonies that declared their independence from
England, and later became a U.S state. In 1679, 26 years later, Portsmouth became the
colony capital. (Concord is the capital of the state of New Hampshire.)
A man named William Whipple (a fun name to say), one of the 56 signers of the Declaration of
Independence, lived in Portsmouth. The Declaration of Independence is the important paper
that declared or strongly stated that our country would no longer be ruled by England. We
would be the United States of America.
The Declaration of Independence helped us form our own government where all men are
created equal and have every right to “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.” It was
signed on July 4, 1776. Our 4th of July celebrations, celebrate this historic event.
Dan’s Big Bold Bicycle Adventure comes to an end today in Portsmouth – 3,667 miles and 50
days from start to finish. He began on June 19th in Astoria, Oregon. According to biking
tradition, Dan dipped his back tire (actually Wilson, his bike’s, back tire) in the Pacific Ocean to
signify or show the beginning of his adventure. Today, Dan will dip Wilson’s front tire in the
Atlantic Ocean, signifying the end of his 50-day adventure.
Children’s Activities:
Every day of Dan’s 50-day trip has been followed with fun facts and activities; our way of
sharing his adventures with you. Help your child find a little “adventure” every day. This is how
they learn. They learn by doing. With your encouragement and guidance, they will explore, ask
questions, experiment, and most of all try.
While Dan’s Big Bold Bicycle Adventure has come to an end, there are many activities that
were shared throughout the trip that don’t have to end. Go back to all of the places on Dan’s
trip. Check the daily activities and use the ones you like. They may help you think of new ideas
to explore as you have fun on your learning adventure with your child. Enjoy!