American Independence Museum

“Engaging people of all ages in the ongoing struggle for freedom and self-governance.”

We believe that all voices and all perspectives matter, which is an ideal made implicit with the signing of the United States Constitution on September 17, 1787. Although composed of many voices, “We Are One” people, one nation, one planet…

For the next three years, “We Are One” will serve as our organization’s motto as we prepare for the nation’s 250th anniversary. “We Are One” will inform our programs, events, and how we engage visitors and organizations from near and far.

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Latest News

AIM to Host Real Pirates Salem at Beer for History Event

On Thursday, November 7 at 6:00 p.m., the American Independence Museum (AIM) will welcome Real Pirates from Salem, Massachusetts to historic Folsom Tavern (1775) for a maritime-themed Beer for History event.

American Independence Museum to Offer “Spooky” Stroll

On Sunday, October 27, at 5:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., the American Independence Museum (AIM) will offer a “spooky” walking tour, Exeter After Dark: Crime, Haunts, and Local Lore.

AIM to Welcome Sam von Trapp at Beer for History

On Thursday, October 24 at 6:00 p.m., the American Independence Museum (AIM) will welcome Sam von Trapp and von Trapp Brewing to historic Folsom Tavern (1775) for Beer for History, presented by Donahue, Tucker & Ciandella. Sam von Trapp is the grandson of Maria and Georg (Captain) von Trapp, the family who inspired The Sound of Music.

Guests chat during Beer for History event

First Fall Beer for History Kicks Off

On Thursday, October 10 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at historic Folsom Tavern (1775), the American Independence Museum (AIM) will host its first fall Beer for History with Sawbelly Brewing.

AIM to Celebrate Constitution Week

In honor of Constitution Week, Sept. 17 – Sept. 24, the American Independence Museum (AIM) will host a free special program on Wednesday, September 18 for the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and museum members.

AIM to Launch Digital Exhibits

On Thursday, August 15, the American Independence Museum (AIM) will launch a selection of digital exhibits as part of an organizational effort to increase accessibility to its collection.

AIM Receives Grant for Ladd-Gilman House Restoration

The Society of Colonial Wars in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has awarded the American Independence Museum (AIM) an $8,275 grant that will help restore the historic Ladd-Gilman House (1721). The grant will specifically fund repairs to basement doors and restoration of basement door frames, parts of which are rotted and require replacement.

Bonnie Ladd-Sullivan and some of her Ladd ancestors

Bonnie Ladd-Sullivan Explores Deep Ties to Ladd-Gilman House

A direct descendent of Nathaniel and Mercy Ladd who built the Ladd-Gilman House (1721), located on the grounds of the American Independence Museum (AIM), Bonnie Ladd-Sullivan is currently on a journey to document her ancestors.

Historian Continues to Research Heritage, Colonial Women in Exeter

Historian Norra Cardillo is researching the Ladd and Gilman women of Exeter, New Hampshire, work she plans to present as part of her master’s portfolio when she graduates from Idaho State University next spring. A descendant of the Ladd and Gilman families, She visited the historic Ladd-Gilman House (1721) at the American Independence Museum (AIM) for the second time in March to continue her research.

Artisan engages with guest at American Independence Festival

Traditional Artisan Village offers Insight into 18th-Century Life at American Independence Festival

Guests at the American Independence Festival on Saturday, July 13 may leave with a greater appreciation for their clothes, their shoes, and even their forks at an authentic Traditional Artisan Village.