Nick White

Nick White || 31 March, 2025

Many roads and highways in New Hampshire are named after native peoples, landmarks, and places. One example is Tsienneto Road, which runs just under 4 miles between Routes 28 (Bypass 28) and 102 in Derry, NH. In the Abenaki language, “Tsienneto” is often interpreted as “cold water” or “cold water fishing place.” The Abenaki frequently named locations based on natural features, especially those related to water, which was central to their way of life. Rivers, lakes, and other water sources were vital for fishing, transportation, and spiritual practices.

At the northeastern end of Tsienneto Road lies Beaver Lake, a scenic spot with historical significance for the Indigenous tribes that lived in the area. The lake, one of the first of its size in the area to freeze over, is a favored destination for ice fishing enthusiasts. The name “Tsienneto” has intriguing etymological roots, with local lore adding whimsical interpretations. One such tale suggests the name might reference a playful or imaginative aspect of the landscape. Here is one:

In March 1697, a Native American raid on Haverhill, Massachusetts, led to the capture of Hannah Duston, her neighbor Mary Neff, and several others. They were forced to march north toward Canada. During their journey, they camped along the shores of Beaver Lake. Local folklore claims that it was where Hannah was visited by Tsienneto, a benevolent fairy queen known as Neto. Neto appeared under the cover of darkness, promising to help the captives. The next morning, the natives continued their march northwards. When they stopped on an island in the Merrimack River near Concord, New Hampshire—now known as Duston Island—Neto’s influence allegedly caused the natives to fall into a deep, enchanted sleep. Seizing the opportunity, Duston wriggled free from her bindings. She, Neff, and a young man named Samuel Leonardson armed themselves with their captors’ weapons. Moving swiftly and silently, they killed and scalped ten of the sleeping natives, including six children. Guided by the unseen hand of Neto, Duston, Neff, and Leonardson fled in a canoe, navigating the dangerous Merrimack River southward. Improbably, the trio made it past the river’s rapids and rocky banks, not to mention Manchester’s Amoskeag Falls, just south of their supposed starting point.

Nevertheless, the rest of the story can be confirmed by actual historical accounts. Duston, Mary, and Sam made it back to Haverhill, where Hannah presented the scalps to the General Assembly and received a reward of 50 pounds. It’s said that Neto guided Hannah, Neff, and Samuel back to Haverhill, turning a tale of brutal survival into a legend touched by the kindness of a fairy queen.