Manchester, New Hampshire, Circa 1905

Around 1905, Manchester, New Hampshire, was a bustling industrial city, characterized by its significant growth during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The city's development was largely driven by the textile industry, which played a crucial role in shaping its economy, society, and physical landscape. Here's a more detailed look at Manchester during this period:

In 1905, Manchester was a melting pot of various immigrant groups, reflecting the broader trends of American industrial cities at the time. The city had a significant population of Irish and French-Canadian immigrants, who came to Manchester in large numbers due to the demand for factory labor. These groups contributed significantly to the city's cultural and social fabric, establishing churches, schools, and community organizations.

Manchester's economy in 1905 was predominantly centered around the textile industry. The Amoskeag Manufacturing Company was the powerhouse of the city's economy and was one of the largest textile producers in the world. The company operated massive mills along the Merrimack River, producing a wide range of textiles, from denim to fine fabrics. The scale of Amoskeag’s operations offered numerous jobs, drawing workers from across New England and beyond.

Aside from the textile mills, Manchester supported a variety of businesses that catered to the needs of its growing population, including shops, banks, and service industries. The city’s infrastructure was developing rapidly, with electric streetcars connecting various parts of the city, making it more accessible. There was also a burgeoning scene of small manufacturers and craftsmen, contributing to a diverse local economy.

Education was an essential aspect of community life in Manchester. The city had several public schools that served the children of both native-born Americans and immigrants. Parochial schools were also significant, often established by the Irish and French-Canadian communities to provide education aligned with their cultural and religious values. Higher education was represented by institutions like Saint Anselm College, established in 1889 by the Benedictine monks.

While Manchester might not have been home to nationally renowned figures in 1905, it did have prominent local figures, particularly in business and politics. Moody Currier, who had served as Governor of New Hampshire, was a notable resident. Another influential figure was Frank P. Carpenter, a businessman and politician who was deeply involved in the local community.

Culturally, Manchester was vibrant, with various ethnic communities maintaining their traditions, languages, and celebrations. The city had several theaters, and public lectures were popular, often featuring topics of intellectual and practical interest to its industrious citizens.

This snapshot of Manchester in 1905 illustrates a period of significant industrial activity and demographic growth, laying the groundwork for the city's future development.