History of Nelson, New Hampshire, USA

1839 - Nelson
Nelson, New Hampshire
Cheshire county, is situated on the height of land between Connecticut and Merrimack rivers. The surface is hilly, but good for grazing. In the S. part a branch of the Ashuelot river rises; and from Long pond in this town, and Hancock, issues a branch of Contoocook river. The best mill privileges are furnished by streams issuing from ponds in this town, of which there are four, containing a surface of 1,800 acres. There is a cotton and other manufactories. The inhabitants are principally farmers of industrious habits. It was chartered Feb. 22, 1774, by the name of Packersfield. In June, 1814, the name was altered to Nelson. The first settlements commenced in 1767. Nelson lies 40 miles S.W. from Concord, and 8 N.E. from Keene. Population, 1830, 875.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839

1854 - Nelson
Nelson, a post-township in Cheshire co., New Hampshire, 40 miles S. W. from Concord. Population, 750.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1895 - Nelson
Nelson, a post-township of Cheshire co., N.H., about 10 miles N.E. of Keene. It contains Munsonville, an academy, and a cotton-factory. Pop. 744.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1906
Nelson, a post-township (town) of Cheshire co., N.H., about 10 miles NE. of Keene. Pop. in 1900, 295.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906

1947 - Nashua Business Man Is Nubanusit Drowning Victim
Elmer C. Orff, 58, of 76 Amherst st., retired wood dealer, drowned in a fishing trip accident at Lake Nubanusit in Nelson shortly before noon Sunday when the boat in which he was trolling, filled with water and sank. With him were his son Dr. Arthur L. Orff and Edward S. Moore, both of this city, who swam ashore.

Investigators said the weight of an outboard motor caused the boat to sink.

State, county and Keene officials recovered the body shortly after 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon in about 15 feet of water some 50 feet from shore and a verdict of accidental drowning was rendered by Medical Referee Dr. Walter H. Lacey of Keene who ordered the body removed to a funeral home in Keene.

Mr. Orff a resident of this city for 33 years, was born in Waldboro, Me., June 11, 1888 son of the late Alonzo and Annie (Taylor) Orff. For many years he conducted the Broad St. Wood yard, retiring a few years ago.

Fraternally he was a member of Nashua grange, P of H state and national granges... Read MORE...

Here's a list of the best places to go and things to do in and around Nelson:
Pitcher Mountain Trail:
Lace up your hiking boots and hit the Pitcher Mountain Trail. The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, especially during fall when the foliage is in full swing.

Nelson Town Beach:
Cool off at Nelson Town Beach on the shores of Nubanusit Lake. It's a perfect spot for a lazy day of sunbathing, picnicking, and swimming.

Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music:
If you're a fan of classical music, don't miss the Apple Hill Center. They host concerts and events featuring talented musicians in a beautiful rural setting.

Harrisville Designs:
Explore the charming village of Harrisville and visit Harrisville Designs. This historic textile mill offers a variety of locally made woolens and crafts. You might even catch a glimpse of the looms in action.

Nubanusit Lake:
Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and spend a peaceful day exploring the pristine waters of Nubanusit Lake. Fishing enthusiasts will find ample... Read MORE...