When you look at a map of the State of New Hampshire, Ashland seems to be at the exact center, at the intersections of Routes 25, 132 and US 3. It's the western edge of NH's Lakes Region and just southwest of the White Mountains.

Ashland was originally part of the town of Holderness, but settlement was hampered by the French and Indian War.

Ashland has a pretty village, complete with a vintage rail station, a toy museum, and a number of buildings on the Historic Register, including two churches, a grist mill, the Town Hall and a school.

The town boomed with the arrival of trains in the 1800s, and manufacturing of woolen goods, lumber and sporting goods prospered. The waterfalls in the Ashland and Holderness area provided power for industry as well.

Soon, tourists used the train to visit the fashionable Squam Lakes, including Little Squam, the setting used to film the movie On Golden Pond.

Ashland also has its share of famous people, some of them in the "braniac" category. They include:

James Frankland Briggs, Republic Congressman

George Hoyt Whipple, Nobel Prize winner for Physiology or Medicine for his research on anemia and the function of the liver

The numerous descendants of the Cheney family (including Person Colby Cheney, an abolitionist and a Governor, and Oren B. Cheney, the founder of Bates College).

Not too shabby, Ashland!

Jellystone Park is a campground and activity center with the Yogi Bear theme. This one has been around for years, and has many return visitors. Some complain about its "retro" style, yet other love it for the same reason.

Dining choices in Ashland range from fast food to elegant restaurants. There is a Burger King at 25 West Street (I-93 Exit 24). The Village Pizza Grill, 116 Main Street, is a local favorite. The Common Man, 60 South Main Street, is a regional franchise that offers fine décor and hearty menus and its usual New England charm. The Lucky Dragon, 48 Main Street, always gets rave reviews, despite its modest exterior.

Lodging in Ashland includes a Comfort Inn. Bed and breakfasts include the Glynn House Inn, 59 Highland Street and the Cheney House on Highland Street.

Rich in scenery and history, Ashland has a lot going for it.