Manchester is the largest city in the state of New Hampshire and is located in Hillsborough County. The city was named after Manchester, England, which was known for its textile industry. Similarly, Manchester, NH was once a major center for textile manufacturing in the United States. The Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, founded in 1831, became one of the largest textile mills in the world, employing thousands of workers. The city's industrial past is still evident today, with many historic mill buildings being repurposed into apartments, offices, and retail spaces.

Freight transportation has played a significant role in Manchester's history and continues to be an important aspect of the city's economy. The Amoskeag Millyard, where the textile mills were located, was strategically positioned along the Merrimack River, allowing for easy transportation of raw materials and finished products. The Millyard also had its own railroad system, which connected the mills to other parts of the country. Today, the Millyard is home to the New Hampshire Institute of Art, various businesses, and the SEE Science Center, but its industrial heritage is still celebrated through exhibits and historical markers.

Cape Girardeau is a city located in southeastern Missouri, along the Mississippi River. It was founded in 1793 by French and Spanish settlers, making it one of the oldest settlements west of the Mississippi River. The city's name comes from Jean Baptiste de Girardot, a French officer who established a trading post in the area.

Throughout its history, Cape Girardeau has been an important transportation hub. In the early 19th century, it served as a major port for steamboats, which transported goods and people along the Mississippi River. The city's location at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers made it a strategic point for trade and commerce.

Today, Cape Girardeau continues to be a vital transportation center. It is served by several major highways, including Interstate 55 and U.S. Route 61, which connect the city to other parts of Missouri and neighboring states. The city also has a regional airport and is located near the Cape Girardeau Regional Port, which handles freight transportation along the Mississippi River.