Amherst, New Hampshire

Amherst is a town located in Hillsborough County, New Hampshire. As of the 2000 census, the town had a total population of 10,769.

History

Like many New England towns, Amherst was the result of a land grant given to soldiers - in this case, to soldiers who participated in King Philip's War. In 1741, settlers formed the Congregational church and hired the first minister; the town is named for General Jeffrey Amherst, who commanded British forces in North American during the French and Indian War.

Related Topics:
New England - King Philip's War - Jeffrey Amherst - French and Indian War

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In 1770, Amherst became the county seat of Hillsborough County, due largely to its location on the county's major east-west road. It continued to prosper through the Revolutionary War and afterwards. In 1790, the southwestern section broke off and became the town of Milford, New Hampshire and in 1803, the northwest section departed to become Mont Vernon, New Hampshire. Then the development of water-powered mills made Milford grow at Amherst's expense, and the county seat was moved in 1866.

Related Topics:
Hillsborough County - Milford, New Hampshire - Mont Vernon, New Hampshire - 1866

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The town population remained relatively stagnant until after World War II, when Amherst and many surrounding towns saw an influx of newcomers as they became part of the greater Boston, Massachusetts region.

Related Topics:
World War II - Boston, Massachusetts

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