About Us
The Nashua Historical Society is a volunteer run, independent, non-profit organization and receives no operating support from the State of New Hampshire or the City of Nashua. Founded in 1870, the Historical Society's motto is "Preserving the Past for the Future" and in support of its mission, the Historical Society collects, preserves and interprets materials pertaining to Nashua history.
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Our City
Here in Nashua, New Hampshire, a river mill town that grew on work and dreams, professional and community arts groups abound. In a myriad of ways, we honor the past, live the present, and envision our future in cultural forms. Here, in this traditional yet modern city, creative energy flows year-round.
Our Goal
To encourage the community to value the history of Nashua through a variety of experiences and, by example, to demonstrate The Nashua Historical Society's commitment to community outreach and education.
Our Purpose
Using sound management techniques, The Nashua Historical Society shall collect and preserve artifacts, properties, records and documents from Nashua, Nashville, and Colonial Dunstable.
We strive to strengthen the organization's position in the community, to increase membership and to provide services to Nashua.
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The Nashua Historical Society collection is housed in its two museums: the Florence H. Speare Memorial Museum that was dedicated in 1972 and the Abbot-Spalding House built in 1802-1804 and purchased by the Historical Society in 1978.
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Our Acknowledgement
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The Nashua Historical Society is located on N’dakinna, which is the traditional ancestral homeland of the Abenaki, Pennacook and Wabanaki Peoples. The word “Nashua” or “Niswa-ok” in the Abenaki language means “place of two” (rivers)” likely referring to the major rivers that line the borders of the city: the Nashua River, flowing horizontally, and the Merrimack River, creating the eastern border of the city.
The Society honors with gratitude the land and the people who have stewarded it for generations.
