More than any other town in New Hampshire, Derry has changed
dramatically over the last thirty years. Gone are the fields, the
forests, and the fine old homes, and in their place stand malls, modern
housing developments, and multi-lane highways. It is difficult now to
imagine the scene in 1719 when a small group of Scottish pioneers laid
claim to the New Hampshire wilderness, building a meetinghouse close to
a young oak tree. The town of Derry grew up around this site, and for
nearly ten generations the oak stood as a respected presence within the
community, symbolizing Derry's strength of purpose and proud traditions.