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Category: Governance

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New Leadership at the American Independence Museum Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive History

Jenn Carr, Executive Director

The American Independence Museum has announced the appointment of Jennifer Carr to the position of Executive Director.

After receiving both her BA and MA in History from Southern New Hampshire University, Carr first joined the American Independence Museum as a volunteer. Shortly thereafter, in March 2020, she began working for the museum as the Collections Manager and Curator.

During her time as Curator, she has supported the Museum’s mission to share the diverse stories of New Hampshire’s revolutionary past. One example is her work through the museum’s History Matters videos, which highlight individuals such as Wentworth Cheswell, considered the first black American elected to public office. She has updated exhibit information panels to improve accessibility for the seeing impaired and led the migration of all the Museum’s collections information to an online platform that, when complete, can be remotely accessed by external researchers.

In May 2022, Carr took on the role of Acting Executive Director. Regarding the choice to appoint Carr to the role of Executive Director, Museum Board President Ozzie Ayescue said she “has shown incredible dedication.”

“She has worked to preserve the Museum’s valuable collection and facilities and strong leadership delving into the Museum’s collections to find new stories and expose new points of view,” he explained. “She is truly dedicated to creating a more inclusive Museum as part of our overall mission to inspire civic engagement…She is serious and fun to work with—this is a natural step up for Jen.”

Sarah Jaworski, Museum Program Manager, echoed these sentiments. “I am thrilled to continue working with Jen,” she said. “Her commitment to our Museum’s mission and her hard work make her an excellent fit to be the next executive director.”

Under Carr’s leadership, the American Independence Museum will continue its work to share the diverse stories of New Hampshire’s revolutionary past to encourage 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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Major Grant Award Highlights Inclusive Storytelling

Acting Executive Director Jen Carr stands in the Fogg Room, a room with collections items on the walls, but no museum case in it.

Although not its inventor, the American Independence Museum (AIM) has made a concerted effort to make ‘inclusive storytelling’ a significant part of its in-person tour experience.

“We did not invent the term, ‘inclusive storytelling,’ but we have embraced it,” noted Curator Jennifer Carr, who also currently serves as Interim Executive Director at the American Independence Museum.

This dual role has helped her develop her own unique perspective on the importance of inclusive storytelling. “In years past, we generally told stories from one perspective and focused heavily on military items in our collection,” she said. “We can do more than that. We should do more than that.”

As a history museum, Carr said AIM plays a critical role in sharing many different perspectives, such as those of Black Americans, women and Indigenous people with a broader public. Recently, the ability to fulfill this role has been significantly enhanced by a grant award of $21,250 from the Samuel P. Hunt Foundation to enhance the museum’s archival and exhibit infrastructure.

“This grant enables us to purchase five sealed archival microclimate cases that will display rare historic items with incredible stories that shed different perspectives on Revolutionary history,” said Carr.

Some of the items that will be displayed in these cases include Indigenous artifacts that were uncovered on the museum’s property during an archaeological dig in 2019. These items include a 2,700 year-old projectile point (arrowhead), stone flakes created as a result of knapping (the product of producing stone weapons), and pieces of Indigenous pottery.

Carr said many of these items are ‘pre-contact’ and will allow the museum to acknowledge the Indigenous presence on the land and share their history with guests. “These cases will also help with preservation, as they feature UV filters and humidity control measures that will help to preserve items,” she added.

In addition to these cases, the grant award will cover costs associated with purchasing new stands and labels, as each display will feature accompanying text (inclusive stories). These stands and labels will also be ADA compliant.

“Due to manufacturing delays, these changes likely won’t be implemented until the 2023 season, but this grant gives us serious focus as we plan our exhibit calendar,” said Carr. “We have already made changes in our current exhibits, so if you have not visited us in a couple years, please do. You will be surprised at the stories we are telling.”

To learn more about the museum, or its current tours and programming, visit independencemuseum.org.

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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A Fond Farewell to AIM Executive Director

Museum Directo Emma Stratton in front og a large oil portrait of John Taylro Gilman

After five years of inspirational leadership, American Independence Museum Executive Director Emma Stratton will be leaving as of Friday, May 20, to pursue a new professional opportunity.

Under her directorship, the American Independence Museum grew tremendously. The museum expanded their public programming and digital presence, especially on social media, during her time as Executive Director. Her leadership was the driving force behind improvements to the museum’s historic properties and a major groundworks project to create a community-oriented museum campus.

In a direct address to the museum community, Stratton said, “I want to thank you all for your tremendous support over my five years at the museum. You have helped us grow in unimaginable ways, despite the challenges COVID presented.”

While the museum board begins the search for the next Executive Director, Collections Manager & Curator Jen Carr will serve as Acting Executive Director.

“As we look toward the future and the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, we are eager to build on Emma’s legacy by expanding our mission to share New Hampshire’s revolutionary past. We are excited for what lies ahead!” noted Carr.

The museum will continue to share information as the search progresses.

Learn more about the American Independence Museum, visit www.independencemuseum.org.

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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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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A New Look for the Independence Museum Lawn

Two construction vehicles working to level the lawn off the Independence Museum

The main lawn of the American Independence Museum is undergoing a major renovation project. After celebrating a successful Independence Festival, work immediately began to create a larger campus between the museum’s two buildings in order to facilitate more community events on museum grounds. 

This work is part of a larger multi-year drainage and grounds work project that began in 2019. Plans include leveling a large portion of the Folsom Lawn, extending pathways connecting the Ladd-Gilman House and Folsom Tavern, and a new set of granite stairs. This preservation work was able to move forward thanks to an in-kind donation of labor by Sargent.

“We at Sargent are proud to take a part in improving access to the long and proud heritage the American Independence Museum affords our citizens and visitors, especially at such an important time in our country’s introspection about life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” said Sargent CEO Herb Sargent.

Work is expected to be completed by the beginning of September in advance of the 300th-anniversary celebrations of the Ladd-Gilman House. The new outdoor space will host a silent auction and birthday party on the evening of Friday, September 17 and family-friendly activities during a community celebration on Saturday, September 18.

“We are extremely grateful to Sargent for completing the work in time to celebrate our anniversaries with our community. Sargent’s generosity ensures the preservation and growth of the American Independence Museum. We look forward to welcoming the public to our anniversary events in September.”

Once the leveling project is complete, work will continue on foundation repairs and drainage improvements around the campus. The museum remains open to the public during construction.

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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American Independence Museum Receives $10,000 Grant

Large red construction vehicle sits on a grassy lawn with an embankment held in place by a stone wall of about 3 feet in height. On the hill above the ledge is the Ladd-Gilman House, a 300 year old building faces in cheery, yellow clapboard. 

A $10,000 grant from the Cogswell Benevolent Trust will support the American Independence Museum in its efforts to effect critical masonry repairs to the back portion of the Ladd-Gilman House’s attached caretaker’s cottage. The restoration project is part of a larger multi-year drainage and grounds work project that began in 2019.

“Water was pooling in our basements, which created a humid environment that is detrimental to collections care and storage,” said museum Executive Director Emma Stratton. “It’s very important we develop a permanent solution to this issue.”

This issue compromised the structural integrity of the foundation of caretaker’s cottage, where the museum’s offices and archives are located.

“We are very thankful for the support of the Cogswell Benevolent Trust in its continued support of our collection care efforts,” said Stratton, who said this phase of the project involves other related repairs.

These repairs include tying the gutter system on the caretaker’s cottage to an existing drainage system in the newly rebuilt retaining wall and re-grading the grounds.

“We are also completing a pathway between both of our historic buildings and adding handrails to all public entrances. We look forward to making our grounds more accessible to the public,” she added.

Built in 1721, the Ladd-Gilman House is a National Historic Landmark property that was home to Nicholas Gilman, Jr., a signer of the Constitution. The home also served as Governor’s mansion when Nicholas’ brother, John Taylor Gilman, was Governor of New Hampshire. Their father—Nicholas Gilman, Sr.—served as the state’s first Treasurer.

Built in 1775 by Samuel Folsom and visited by George Washington in 1789, Folsom Tavern was the site of the formation of the New Hampshire chapter of the Society of the Cincinnati in 1783. The nation’s oldest patriotic organization, the Society was founded by officers of the Continental Army and their French counterparts who served together in the American Revolution.

“This is a big year for the museum, as we plan to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Ladd-Gilman House and our 30th anniversary as a museum,” said Stratton.

The project is expected to be complete by the end of the year.

To learn more about the museum, including its Patriot’s Day Membership Drive, 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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New staff underscore commitment to innovation at American Independence Museum

Two women on a Zoom call

It may be the offseason for the American Independence Museum, but that does not mean staff are “off,” according to Executive Director Emma Stratton, who cited two recent new hires as proof.

“Like many organizations, our operations shifted dramatically from in-person to digital engagement last year, which has created new staffing opportunities,” she said.

These new opportunities include program assistant and content and marketing manager, roles that will be filled by Emma Scheinmann and Sabina Ion, respectively.

“I am thrilled to have Sabina and Emma join our team,” said Stratton. “Both possess a strong museum background, exceptional skills and demonstrated success in their areas of expertise.”

Each expressing enthusiasm at joining the current staff at the Museum, Scheinmann and Ion said they plan to proverbially “hit the ground running.”

“I am excited to rework all education and public engagements to be mission and collections driven and to show the public value of museums,” noted Scheinmann.

A trained archaeologist who “[loves] digging into the past,” Ion said she looks forward to enhancing and developing the Museum’s content strategy.

“I will promote and showcase all the wonderful programming the team has been creating and the fascinating items in the Museum collection,” she said.

Noting she received a Master of Arts in Museum Education from Tufts University in May 2020, Scheinmann added, “I see myself as a facilitator for learning with the Museum as my toolbox.”

In looking ahead to the 2021 season, which begins on May 1, Stratton cited digital engagement as an increasingly important focus of the Museum’s education and public programs.

“As the Museum celebrates its 30th anniversary, we are renewing our focus on civic engagement, too,” she added. “This mission will be reflected in our work, and we look forward to sharing more with the public this year.”

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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Museum welcomes new president to the board

In January, Ozzie Ayscue of Exeter was elected president of its Board of Governors. The appointment follows two years of service on the board during which time Ayscue said he became increasingly motivated by the museum’s mission.

“The mission really resonated with me, especially the part about ‘encouraging and inspiring civic engagement today,’” he said. “It is vitally important to find clever ways to help people to slow down and gain a deeper understanding of the people, places and ideas of American Independence from all sides. With that base of knowledge, people will be more excited to engage in civic life in a constructive manner.”

He also expressed interest in the museum’s assets, which include a Broadside copy of the Declaration of Independence printed on July 4, 1776 and working drafts of the US Constitution with handwritten corrections.

“The potential for storytelling and enabling an intimate experience with these and many other amazing items are a huge opportunity for the museum,” he said.

While not an Exeter native, Ayscue said he is also excited at the prospect to give back to a town that helped lay the foundation for his future.

“I first experienced Exeter and New Hampshire as a 3-year boarding student at Phillips Exeter Academy,” he said. “I never imagined I would return here later in life, but I am glad I did.”

As for his role as president of the Board of Governors, Ayscue said his first goal is to support museum staff and the important work that is already underway. Some of this work includes the Traveling Trunk program, presented by Service Credit Union, and the planning behind the 3rd Beer for History.

“Beer for History is sponsored by Hoefle Phoenix Gormley & Roberts—and we are thrilled at this renewed partnership and the many partners who help advance our mission,” he said. “Our events and programs reflect a steady effort to enliven visitors’ museum experience so they come away with something a little deeper and different each time they visit.”

Home to a world-class collection of 3,000 historic artifacts, the museum welcomes more than 5,000 visitors annually and distinguishes itself with educational school programs and events that make history fun and relevant.

To learn more about the museum, which opens for the 2018 season on Saturday, May 5 with free admission for NH residents, visit www.independencemuseum.org.

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