The American Independence Museum (AIM) has received a $10,000 grant from Americana Corner as part of its Preserving America Grant Program. Americana Corner’s Preserving America Grant program was established to assist nonprofit organizations in the telling of the incredible story of America from its founding era through its first century as a nation.
According to AIM Facilities Manager Rebeccah Seely, the award will fund essential preservation work at Folsom Tavern (c. 1775), which will include repairs to—and restaining of—various sections of clapboard siding. “We are thrilled by this award, which covers nearly half of the total project cost,” she said.
Built by Samuel Folsom, Folsom Tavern was visited by George Washington in 1789. It was also the site of the formation of the New Hampshire chapter of the Society of the Cincinnati in 1783. Founded by officers of the Continental Army and their French counterparts who served together in the American Revolution, the Society owns both buildings on the AIM campus.
The other historic structure on the AIM campus is the Ladd-Gilman House (c. 1721), a National Historic Landmark property that was home to Nicholas Gilman, Jr., a signer of the Constitution. The Ladd-Gilman House also served as the Governor’s mansion when Nicholas’s brother, John Taylor Gilman, was Governor of New Hampshire.
“Grant awards like this from Americana Corner are instrumental in our ability to preserve the integrity of both AIM structures,” noted Seely. “We appreciate their support of our work and our mission.”
About American Independence Museum
Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.