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American Independence Museum Welcomes New Board Members

Two head shots of individuals, one female, one male. New AIM board members Susan Parker and Joe Pace

Along with preparations for the new open season, the American Independence Museum welcomed Joe Pace and Susan Parker to the Board of Governors.

Pace grew up in nearby Stratham, NH, and has been civically minded from an early age, serving as an Exeter Selectman beginning in 2000 at the age of 24, and currently continues to serve as a Selectman, this time for Kensington. Always interested in history, Pace holds a B.A. in History from the University of New Hampshire and taught 8th grade U.S. History at a private school in Maryland.

Another native Granite Stater, Parker has worked for both state and local government for 23 years, predominantly advocating for those with disabilities. She now spends her time engaged in local board service and pursuing her interests in historic preservation, genealogy and history.

Executive Director Emma Stratton noted, “The American Independence Museum looks forward to drawing on the expertise of these two talented individuals to further our museum mission of sharing the diverse stories of Revolutionary Era New Hampshire and continuing a strong tradition of civic engagement.”

About the 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’.

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Patriot’s Day Membership Drive at AIM

Woman places a bid in the silent auction during the museum's 300th Anniversary event

April 19th, also known as Patriot’s Day, commemorates the encounters at Lexington and Concord that traditionally mark the start of the American Revolution. Nearly 250 years later, Patriot’s Day is the perfect time for history lovers and community members to begin marking their calendars for a summer of historic fun. This date also serves as a reminder to current and future members to prepare for the upcoming season and support the museum by purchasing a membership.

“Renewing your membership helps sustain our museum, ensuring that we continue to share different perspectives of the Revolutionary era, encourage critical thinking as we encounter the past, and inspire civic engagement in our community,” said JoAnn Keeler, Membership Manager.

There are many benefits of museum membership including unlimited access to free museum tours, invitations to members-only events, free admission to the Independence Festival, a 10% discount in the gift store, and reciprocal member benefits to over 300 partner institutions.

Although the museum will not open until May, this year the staff intends to share the process of reopening the museum, rotating new collections items onto display, and incorporating more interactive experiences through their various social media channels.

“These past two years have shown us that our museum community stretches far beyond the Seacoast area. We’ve enjoyed providing engaging and informative content to both museum members and supporters that would not traditionally get to visit our premises,” said Sabina Ion, Content and Marketing Manager.

Membership begins at $25 for individuals, with a variety of levels available for those who wish to support the museum at a higher level or wish to receive member benefits for additional people.

To join or renew your museum membership, visit https://www.independencemuseum.org/membership/

About the 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’.

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Questioning “Does Truth Matter?” with the American Independence Museum

The American Independence Museum is pleased to announce the first virtual Tavern Talk of 2022 on Wednesday, March 23 at 6:30 p.m. featuring guest speaker Dr. Joshua Tepley presenting “Does Truth Matter?” Tepley is an Associate Professor of Philosophy at St. Anselm College, whose research interests include concepts of free will and personal identity, as well as the intersection of philosophy with science fiction and pop culture. Tepley has supported the museum in the past as a program participant and presenter.

“This Tavern Talk will touch on the timeless concept of truth, questions that both past and present Granite State citizens grapple with,” said museum Program Manager Sarah Jaworski.

The coexistence of multiple truths and experiences ties directly to the American Independence Museum’s mission of sharing the diverse stories of New Hampshire during the American Revolution.

“Our work at the museum requires examining multiple perspectives to find out what happened in the past. We understand that no singular truth exists. We are delighted to have Dr. Tepley share his ideas on truth with us,” said museum Executive Director Emma Stratton.

Participants will have the opportunity to share their concepts of truth as Tepley leads the group in a thought-provoking community conversation.

Tavern Talks are also supported by a Humanities-To-Go grant from the NH Humanities Council.
Click here to register for the zoom presentation on Wednesday, March 23, 6:30 p.m.

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival.

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Raise a Glass for Our Virtual Holiday Tea

Boston Tea Party Tea ca. 1775

On Saturday, December 4 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the American Independence Museum will host Virtual Holiday Tea.

Featuring colonial music and opportunities to learn about colonial tea etiquette and 18th century foodways, the event additionally provides attendees with their own ‘room’ and colonial Zoom background for socialization with friends and family. As part of the virtual event, each participant will receive several colonial recipes suited for tea and a half-ounce package of tea from Alchemy & Herbs in Exeter.

“This is a great event where anyone anywhere can enjoy a festive time in their own home with a bit of colonial flair,” said museum Executive Director Emma Stratton. “It’s also a great way to invite people into the museum who might not otherwise be able to attend in person.

Tea can be picked up at the museum’s Ladd-Gilman House at 1 Governors Ln., Exeter, or shipped for $3.

Virtual Holiday Tea takes place from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m on Saturday, December 4. Admission is free for children under 6 with prices ranging from $5 to $10 per person. To purchase tickets, or to learn more about the museum, visit independencemuseum.org.

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival.

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Fireside Tavern Night at the American Independence Museum

Folsom Tavern covered in snow

On Thursday, December 2 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., the American Independence Museum will host Fireside Tavern Night at Folsom Tavern (c. 1775).

Free for all ages, the event will feature colonial music, fireside cooking demonstrations, hot cider and refreshments, and opportunities to make simple crafts. Attendees will also be able to purchase items from the museum’s gift shop inside the tavern.

“We will also have local vendors selling handcrafted and carefully curated gifts,” said the museum’s Sarah Jaworski, who noted Folsom Tavern will also be decorated for the holidays. “It will be a very festive atmosphere.”

Fireside Tavern Night takes place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, December 2 both within and outside of Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH. Admission is free, and guests are encouraged to bring healthy non-perishable food and toiletry donations for St. Vincent dePaul. Masks are required inside.

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival.

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AIM Encourages Shopping Local With Museum Store Sunday

Museum Gift store with items for the holiday season

On Sunday, November 28, 2021, the American Independence Museum will be taking part in its second annual Museum Store Sunday. More than 1,650 museum stores representing 50 states, 24 countries, and five continents will offer inspired shopping at museums and cultural institutions during Museum Store Sunday. The museum joins museum stores worldwide in this signature annual initiative by offering unique gifts for the holiday season—with all purchases supporting its mission.

“Last year was the American Independence Museum’s first year participating in Museum Store Sunday. We were still closed because of the pandemic, but used this event as further encouragement to make our store available online,” said Executive Director Emma Stratton.

With a variety of products in the store this is the perfect time to stock up on holiday gifts for loved ones. Items range from history books, examining New Hampshire’s revolutionary past, to colonial-inspired children’s games, and hand-crafted goods made by local artisans. All items can be shipped, or are available for local pick-up the week of November 29.

“Thanks to our participation in Museum Store Sunday we had online customers shopping from multiple states and shipped more than we had ever before!”

Shoppers can look forward to Museum Store Sunday as the global annual day to Be a Patron – and shop conscientiously and support museum stores and their missions worldwide. While there is only one Museum Store Sunday each year, everyone is encouraged to Be a Patron of museums and museum stores all year round.
To participate, shop on independencemuseum.org this November 28.

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival.

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Successful Tour Season Ends Soon

Two visitors pick up reproduction 18th century items in the Folsom Tavern

Located in historic downtown Exeter, the American Independence Museum has welcomed nearly 800 visitors on tours during their abbreviated 2021 season. With tours ending on Saturday, November 20, visitors still have a few days to experience the museum’s Ladd-Gilman House, Folsom Tavern, or behind-the-scenes Architecture tour.

In tours of the Ladd-Gilman House, docents lead visitors on an hour-long exploration of important moments in United States history as seen through the lens of New Hampshire. Visitors not only explore events that shaped the foundation of the nation, but also the diverse array of people who contributed to the cause of independence.

In tours of Folsom Tavern, visited in 1789 by George Washington, visitors will learn its unique history as well as the different kinds of experiences that took place in taverns in colonial and revolutionary history.

After remaining closed for the 2020 season due to the pandemic, the American Independence Museum refined their tours to incorporate new and under-represented stories. “The 2021 season brought a renewed focus on inclusive storytelling at the museum, and we are thrilled to share these new stories with visitors through our many tour offerings,” noted Executive Director Emma Stratton.

Tours are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, students, educators and first responders, $4 for children (6-18), and free for museum members and veterans.

To register for tours, visit independencemuseum.org/

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival.

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Beer for History Welcomes The Czar’s Brewery

Czar's Brewery takes part on Beer for History on Nov 18

On Thursday, November 18, the American Independence Museum will host Beer for History, sponsored by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, with The Czar’s Brewery as the featured brewer. Located in historic downtown Exeter, capital of New Hampshire during the Revolutionary War, The Czar’s Brewery offers everything from brown, blonde, and pumpkin ales to IPA’s, hefeweizens, and more.

“We are thrilled to have them as our featured brewer,” noted museum Program Manager Sarah Jaworski. “We love how their playfulness and creativity in naming beers give a nod to history.”

The Czar’s Brewery is owned by Henry Vance, longtime director for the Associated Grocers of New England, an independent grocers’ cooperative.

“This is the first time we have partnered with Henry. Czar’s is our neighbor, located just across the street from the museum. We are so excited to highlight them!” added Jaworski.

Sponsored by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, Beer for History with The Czar’s Brewery takes place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 18 outside at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern Lawn, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for non-members, while youth (under 21) are $5. Ticket prices include beer (21+), entertainment, and light snacks.

Visit https://www.independencemuseum.org/event/beer-for-history-czars/ to purchase tickets.

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival.

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Go Behind the Scenes with an Architectural Tour

Architectural Tour Highlight of the main bannister, wooden railing with many spindles.

They sure don’t build them like they used to. The American Independence Museum is providing visitors with a peek “behind the scenes” to see how their two 18th century properties have weathered the challenges of time.

“Over time the architecture of our buildings changed to match the needs of those living here and to fit popular styles. We are excited to explore those changes in our architecture tours and give guests an opportunity to see areas of the museum that are rarely open to the public,” said museum Curator Jennifer Carr.

Among many interesting historical footnotes, the ca. 1721 Ladd-Gilman House was home to NH’s longest-serving Governor, John Taylor Gilman, who served in such capacity off and on for 14 years from 1794 to 1816. In 1985, a Dunlap Broadside, the first official printing of the Declaration of Independence, was re-discovered in its attic.

Originally built in the center of downtown Exeter where Me & Ollies exists today, the ca. 1775 Folsom Tavern is now “down the hill” from the Ladd-Gilman House and boasts a unique history of its own. In addition to where the New Hampshire Chapter of the Society of the Cincinnati was founded in 1783, Folsom Tavern welcomed George Washington in 1789 where he “partook in a collation” served by the Folsom family.

Architecture tours take place on Fridays at 12:30 and 2 p.m. through November 19.

Due to the historic nature of both buildings, they are not handicap accessible. Tickets are $10 for non-members and $5 for members. Pre-registration is recommended, masks are required.

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival.

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UNH BrewLab to headline next Beer for History

Two students at work brewing beer in the UNH Labs

On the heels of a successful kickoff in October with Pipe Dream Brewing from Londonderry, Beer for History, sponsored by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, will welcome UNH BrewLab on Thursday, November 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. Featuring craft beer, colonial-inspired games and trivia, Beer for History is appropriate for all ages.

“It takes place outside on our Folsom Tavern Lawn, so there is plenty of space for families with kids to enjoy late autumn in Exeter,” noted museum Executive Director Emma Stratton. “There will also be tents and campfires, so it will be a very festive environment.”

At this Beer for History, UNH BrewLab is expected to bring three beers, including “Harvest Thyme Brown Ale,” which is brewed using the ‘unloved’ bread ends from the UNH dining hall fresh baked bread. The thyme added to the beer comes from the Farm To You NH program, a student-run farm on campus.

“Stormy Seas Oatmeal Stout” is a full bodied oatmeal stout with dark roasty notes and a hint of sweet aroma from local maple syrup additions. Local oats give it a nice smooth creaminess. A hoppy farmhouse style beer, “Wildcat Wheat” is brewed with wheat and orange peels and dry hopped with Citra hops, which elicit ‘sweet aromas.’

“You will also get the chance to talk with some of the student brewers,” noted Stratton, who said the purpose behind Beer for History is two-fold.

“We want to get people excited about history and the programs we offer, but we also want to be a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike,” she added. “Beer for History has always been a place where everyone can gather and have a terrific time.”

Beer for History with UNH BrewLab takes place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 4 outside at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern Lawn, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for non-members, while youth (under 21) are $5. Ticket prices include beer (21+), entertainment and light snacks.

To purchase tickets visit https://www.independencemuseum.org/event/beer-for-history-unh/

About the American Independence Museum
The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate  inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival.

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