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History of Nelson, New Hampshire, USA
Journey back in time to Nelson, New Hampshire, USA
(Munsonville) (Packersfield)
Visit Nelson, New Hampshire, USA. Discover its history. Learn about the people who lived there through stories, old newspaper articles, pictures, postcards and ancestry.Do You Have Nelson Roots? Share MY Ancestral Story!

Nelson, Cheshire, NH
The first settlers were Breed Batchellor and Dr. Nathaniel Breed, who arrived in 1767, and it is this year that has been chosen as the birth-date of the town, which was officially incorporated in 1773. The town changed its name to Nelson in 1814.
townofnelson.com
On February 22, 1774, the town was incorporated by Governor John Wentworth as "Packersfield", after a major proprietor, Thomas Packer, the sheriff at Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Nelson includes the village of Munsonville.
There is MUCH more to discover about Nelson, New Hampshire, USA. Read on!
Nelson Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Discover Nelson: History, News, Travel, and Stories

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
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.
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
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
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...
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...
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...
Discover MY Roots: Nelson Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Nelson, New Hampshire, USA
We currently have information about 32 ancestors who were born or died in Nelson.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Ancestors Who Were Married in Nelson, New Hampshire, USA
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Genealogy Resources for Nelson
Our Nelson Gift Ideas


New Hampshire Gift Idea - Apple Cider Donuts, Pumpkins and Maple Syrup - I Love New Hampshire! - Ceramic Mug NH Gifts
If you're a New Hampshire enthusiast or simply crave the cozy vibes of autumn, this Ceramic Mug is designed just for you. With its charming design featuring the quintessential symbols of fall in New Hampshire - Apple Cider Donuts, Pumpkins, and Maple Syrup - it's the perfect way to sip your morning coffee or tea while declaring your love for the Granite State.

Train Enthusiast Gift Idea - Arrival of trains at base of Mt Washington, NH - Ceramic Postcard Mug
Captivating Design: Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the Arrival of Trains at the base of Mt. Washington, NH, captured in exquisite detail as featured in a postcard from over 100 years ago! The vibrant and high-resolution image wraps around the entire mug, creating a stunning panorama that evokes the nostalgia of classic train arrivals against the backdrop of majestic mountains.

New Hampshire Roots: Old Man of the Mountain Humor – Genealogy Coffee Mug
If your family tree is deeply rooted in the Granite State, this mug is for you! Featuring the witty phrase, "My ancestors came from New Hampshire, that explains a lot about my love for the Old Man of the Mountain - stubborn, weathered, and prone to unexpected collapse!" - this ceramic coffee mug is a perfect blend of nostalgia and humor.

Mt. Washington Aluminum Bookmark – "Climb High, Stay on Track" with Historic Postcard Images
Mark your place in style with this Mt. Washington aluminum bookmark, featuring stunning images from vintage postcards and the inspirational slogan: "Climb High, Stay on Track – Mt. Washington, NH." A perfect keepsake for book lovers, history buffs, and White Mountains enthusiasts, this durable and lightweight bookmark captures the charm and adventure of New Hampshire’s most iconic peak.

Mt. Washington Coffee Mug - Historic Postcard Images of Mt. Washington & Cog Railway
Climb to the Clouds - Mt. Washington & the Historic Cog Railway! Sip your favorite brew while enjoying a nostalgic journey through the White Mountains with this ceramic coffee mug featuring vintage postcard images of Mt. Washington, NH, and the legendary Mt. Washington Cog Railway.

Patriotic Memories: Memorial Day Vintage Postcard Coffee Mug
Remembering the Brave, Honoring the Fallen Celebrate the spirit of Memorial Day with this stunning ceramic coffee mug featuring vintage postcards commemorating the holiday. Perfect for honoring the brave men and women who served, this mug is both a functional keepsake and a nostalgic work of art. Whether you're sipping your morning coffee or enjoying an afternoon tea, this dishwasher-safe and microwave-friendly mug is a timeless way to show your patriotism. Ideal as a gift for veterans, history buffs, or anyone who cherishes American traditions, this mug makes Memorial Day even more meaningful.
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