The New Hampshire town of Hudson has gone through amazing growth and change since 1673 when it was part of Dunstable, Massachusetts. Over the course of 157 years, the town became Nottingham, Massachusetts, in 1741; Nottingham West, New Hampshire, in 1746; and finally, Hudson in 1830. Along with the change of names, this border community developed new town centers. Today, Hudson has two centers--the newer one being located closer to the Merrimack River along the route into Nashua. Hudson, New Hampshire presents the town's prominent people, such as Dr. Alfred K. Hills; its well-known attractions, such as Benson's Wild Animal Farm; and its fine institutions, such as Alvirne High School.

Part of Dunstable was transferred to New Hampshire in 1741 when the boundary line was established.

"Benson's Wild Animal Farm in Hudson, New Hampshire, opened to the public in 1927. Due in part to the evolution of the automobile, the attraction grew in size and attendance to become one of New England's major family destinations. Benson's was a zoo to the public, a work station for many circus animal trainers and performers, and a source of summer employment for generations of local teenagers. The attraction closed in 1987 and a bit of Americana faded away, but its memory remains vivid to many. The property was sold to the state for the development of a highway, which never materialized. In 2009, after years of negotiations, the town purchased the land from the New Hampshire Department of Transportation with plans to develop it into a large park filledwith picnic areas, walking paths, and bicycle trails. A Benson's museum is planned for the future"--cover.