As the area around New Hampshire's Crawford Notch became very popular during the early 1800s, an increasing demand for lodging became the beginning of a small development. Long before a railroad connected Portland to the Notch, the area welcomed Samuel Willey, with his wife and five children. The family constructed a cluster of small buildings, including an inn along the rugged road through the Notch. Here on the western wall of the Notch, the Willey's little slice of heaven quickly turned ugly. The family was terrified when the swollen Saco River ripped through the river valley wreaking havoc through the Notch. Once again the following year, on the night of August 28, 1826, one of the most intense rainstorms hit the White Mountains. The Saco River quickly rose well over its banks, sweeping away trees, livestock and farm buildings. The Willey house remained undamaged, but unfortunately the fleeing family was caught in a seething river and crushed in the wreckage. Three of the Willey children were never found. Mount Willey, part of Crawford Notch State Park, was named in honor of the Willey family.
   Fast forward a few centuries ... this park alongside U.S. Route 302 is still a popular stop for sightseers and leaf peepers. A small picnic area lies at the foot of Mount Willey, and is especially crowded during mid October when autumn foliage begins to peak. It's easy to see why New Hampshire remains as one of the perennial favorites when it comes to New England's fall season and countless scenic wonders.

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