The Granite State has a long list of famous people from its early history, especially the politicians who helped shape the state and the country at large. Some of these figures have been memorialized in statue form and in paintings. Some famous people from New Hampshire, however, are famous in other ways, and you may not realize they have roots here.

1. Seth Meyers, Bedford

Saturday Night Live alumnus Seth Meyers, while not born there, began living in Bedford at age 10. he is now the host of the Emmy award-nominated Late Night with Seth Meyers on NBC and one of the most famous people from NH.

2. Sarah Silverman, Bedford

Like Seth Meyers, fellow comedian and another one of the most famous New Hampshire celebrities, Sarah Silverman also hails from Bedford and was born there. Her comedy, acting, and writing have garnered her widespread attention and accolades.

3. Ronnie James Dio, Portsmouth

Ronnie James Dio rose to fame during the '70s and '80s as the vocalist for Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and his own band, Dio. He is regarded as one of the best metal singers ever. His hometown of Portsmouth is a very walkable town that's always worth visiting.

4. Carlton Fisk, Charlestown

This star catcher from Charlestown made his name with the Boston Red Sox during the 1970s. His game-winning home run during the 1975 World Series is a lasting image in sports history.

5. Bode Miller, Easton

From Easton, Miller is a champion ski racer and world-class athlete. He's participated in the Winter Olympics five times and has won six medals, including one gold.

6. Tom Rush, Portsmouth

A folk and blues singer for over 60 years, Tom Rush has also helped many other artists to gain fame, including James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, and Jackson Browne.

7. Dan Brown, Exeter

The Da Vinci Code is probably the most widely known of this author's thrillers. This book and two others have also been adapted into feature films. Check out some of the best things to do in Dan Brown's hometown of Exeter. He's one of the most celebrated celebrities from NH.

8. Sam Huntington, Peterborough

Born in Peterborough and raised in Hancock, Sam Huntington is known for his TV and film acting. His highest profile role was playing Jimmy Olsen in Superman Returns.

9. Alan Shepard, Derry

Born in Derry, this astronaut who famously hit a golf ball on the moon was also the first American in space. He was also the oldest person to visit our Earth's satellite.

10. J. D. Salinger, Cornish

While not born here, this American author spent decades living in Cornish after the popular success of his novel, The Catcher in the Rye.

One spot where famous people from New Hampshire hang out is a cool neighborhood diner in Manchester. Related to that, here are some restaurants around the state that are famous all on their own.

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