Dixville Notch Votes: A Century-Old Election Day Tradition

The Unique History of Dixville Notch

Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire's remote North Country, Dixville Notch is a small village with a unique election day tradition. Since 1960, Dixville Notch has held the distinction of being the first place in the United States to cast votes in presidential elections.

The tradition began in the early 1900s when local residents would gather at the Balsams Grand Resort Hotel to cast their ballots as soon as the polls opened. In 1960, the hotel's owner, Neil Tillotson, decided to open the polls at midnight, giving Dixville Notch the unofficial title of "first in the nation" to vote.

The Midnight Vote

The midnight vote in Dixville Notch has become a highly anticipated event, attracting media attention from around the world. The small village transforms into a hub of activity as journalists, photographers, and political enthusiasts descend upon the Balsams Grand Resort Hotel to witness the historic occasion.

The process begins promptly at midnight, when the town clerk opens the polls. Voters line up outside the hotel, eager to cast their ballots and be part of the tradition. The voting process is quick and efficient, with all registered voters typically casting their votes within minutes.

The Results and Significance

The results of the Dixville Notch vote are usually a reliable indicator of the overall outcome of the presidential election. In recent years, the village has voted for the eventual winner in every election except one.

The Dixville Notch vote holds symbolic significance, representing the start of the long election day process in the United States. It also highlights the importance of civic duty and the democratic process, even in the smallest of communities.

Conclusion

Dixville Notch's century-old election day tradition continues to capture the imagination of Americans and people around the world. The midnight vote is a testament to the power of tradition and the importance of civic participation. As the nation prepares for another election day, Dixville Notch will once again take its place as the "first in the nation" to vote, setting the stage for a day of political drama and suspense.