Then and Now

The history of Meredith as a corporate town dates back more than two hundred thirty years. Like most older towns, especially those devoted largely to agriculture, Meredith has greatly diminished in territory since its original incorporation; unlike most New Hampshire towns of this size, however, it is progressive and prosperous, and the valuation of the town has steadily increased. This growth is the result of Meredith's change from an agricultural town to an industrial town to today's prosperous four-season resort in the heart of the Lakes Region, at the foothills of the White Mountains. Meredith, part of the Then & Now series, places vintage images alongside contemporary photographs, taken by photographer Aaron Ober, to show the changes that have taken place in this area through the years.

Residents and visitors strolling through the streets of Portsmouth may wonder about the changes the city has seen over the years. Though much of Portsmouth's charm comes from an appearance that little has been altered, the community has transitioned over the centuries from rural farms to a bustling port to a modern New England city that carefully balances the best of old and new.

In Then & Now: Portsmouth, authors William T. and Constance S. Warren share their collection of photographs, postcards, and maps to illustrate Portsmouth scenes of days gone by alongside contemporary photographs. Readers will enjoy the country seaport town that Portsmouth was and look at the urban metropolis that it has become. From Market Square and its earliest merchants to the port that gave the town its name, the authors' extensive research will bring to light fascinating stories for every reader, from the newcomer to the fifth-generation locals.

Franklin, incorporated in 1895, is New Hampshire's smallest city and is situated where the Pemigewasset and Winnipesaukee Rivers form the headwaters of the Merrimack River. Long known as the "Gateway to the White Mountains," Franklin was once a thriving tourist destination and a bustling mill town. These deep and varied roots inspired resident Elizabeth C. Jewell to document the city's development. Franklin continues to look towards the future and remains respectful of its past.

Nashua's growth began with strong-minded industrialists who had visions of great mills powered by the Nashua River. The Nashua Manufacturing Company expanded this small settlement, at the time called Dunstable, to a thriving and affluent community. In a speech given on July 4, 1803, civic leader Daniel Abbot inspired the town to change the name of the area to Nashua Village, and in 1853, Nashua was granted city status. Nashua places vintage images alongside contemporary photographs to illustrate the changes that have taken place in this city through the years. Readers will find well-known businesses such as the Bellavance Beverage Company, historical buildings such as Martha's Exchange, and fantastic street scenes including architectural treasures such as the Nashua Telegraph building and the Indian Head Bank.