During the first half of the 20th century, this one-room dwelling housed many tramps who passed through Richmond as severe economic conditions and high unemployment drove hundreds of thousands of people onto roads and railroads seeking work, handouts, food, and shelter. Many towns built simple one-room hostels where these vagrants received a free meal and a bed before being urged to move on. One of only a few remaining in the State of New Hampshire, the Richmond Tramp House recalls a significant era in Richmond's history and culture.