Nashua is located in Hillsborough County and it is the county seat. The city is situated 10 miles south of Manchester on the west bank of the Merrimack River. The population estimate for July 1, 1998 was 82,169, an increase of 2,507 since 1990.
The first permanent settlement was established in 1656 in a region that used to be part of Massachusetts. In 1853 it was incorporated as a city and named for the Nashua Indians who once lived in the area. The name means "land between two rivers." Today, the city is evolving into a high-tech driven base with such employers as Digital Equipment Corporation.
The area is noted for its natural resources and proximity to New England scenery. The White Mountains are 90 miles north, providing opportunities for skiing and hiking. For water sports enthusiasts, Lake Winnipesaukee is 50 miles to the north as well. Nashua is the second-largest city in New Hampshire behind Manchester, and it is part of the Nashua, New Hampshire metro area.
Manchester, the county's largest city, is located on the banks of the Merrimack River. Prior to receiving its final name of Manchester, the city had three other names starting with Tyng’s Town, then Harrytown [Old Harry's Town] and Derryfield.
Manchester was settled in the early 1700's, and was originally incorporated in 1752, by the name of Derryfield. In 1810 it received its present name of Manchester. Manchester was incorporated as a city in 1846. Manchester has been called "Elm City of New England" and the "Queen City of New Hampshire."
