Manchester History, New Hampshire

Manchester, NH US: History - Queen City of New Hampshire

Manchester is situated on the Merrimack River Banks in Hillsborough County of New Hampshire. The city had many names before the name of Manchester was given to it. It was known as Nutfield, Tyng’s town, Derryfield and the list is long. The city was incorporated in 1752 and it was in 1810 that the name of Manchester was awarded to it. Manchester is also known as the Elm City of New England and the Queen City of New Hampshire.

Role of Namaoskeag Indians & Scot-Irish Settlers

The Manchester territory was originally inhabited by Native Americans, Namaoskeag Indians. They occupied areas around the Amoskeag Falls. However, they vacated this area in 1725 when they were ousted by the European settlers. The Scot-Irish settlers from Ireland came and settled down here. This group of people had a signed deed that allowed them to settle in Chestnut County. Thus, Nutfield came into existence. This was the first settlement in Merrimack Valley and included the present towns of Manchester, Hudson, Windham, Salem and Derry. This was sectioned in 1741 to form Windham, Hudson to the south and Derryfield. Derry was separated to form a town in 1828.

Incorporation of Manchester

Manchester was officially incorporated according to the demands by the Scot-Irish residents in 1751. The first town clerk was John Hall. Derryfield included areas of Chester, Londonderry, and Harrytown. Amoskeag was in Gofftown and Piscatagog was a part of Bedford, prior to being annexed to Manchester. Before being incorporated, Manchester consisted of small secluded hamlets along the Merrimack River. As the city grew, so did its boundaries and engulfed the surrounding villages.

Division of New Hampshire

In 1771, New Hampshire saw itself being divided into 5 counties. At the same time, Derryfield and Hillsborough were attached. In 1792 after the formation of the corporation, the Mc Gregor’s bridge was completed and it crossed Merrimack River at foot of the Bridge Street.

Amoskeag Mill Companies

The city of Manchester grew and flourished over the years. The main reason was the Amoskeag Mill companies. The company opened up its economy and provided employment in service sectors like stores, fire and police. The name of Derryfield was changed to Manchester in honor of the thriving mills in Manchester, England. The Amokseag Cotton and Woolen Manufacturing Company were sold to Olney Robinson in 1822. The company expanded and reorganized to produce railroad locomotives and fire engines.

Thus, the Queen City of New Hampshire started improving each day and today, it stands as one of the most popular city in the state.

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