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New Staff Highlight 2023 at American Independence Museum

Rebecca Seely

Founded in 1991, the American Independence Museum in Exeter has become known for its expertise in Revolutionary history education and historic preservation, core strengths enhanced by the recent addition of Rebeccah Seely as Facilities Manager. “I am honored to join the Museum’s exceptional team and excited for the opportunity to contribute to the continued preservation of this American treasure,” said Seely.

Home to a world-class collection of 3,000 historic artifacts, the American Independence Museum features the Ladd-Gilman House (c. 1721) and Folsom Tavern (c. 1775).

Ladd Gilman House

Folsom Tavern

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.

Folsom Tavern was built in 1775 by Samuel Folsom and visited by George Washington in 1789. The tavern was also 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.

As for what drew her to the American Independence Museum, Seely said her interest in Revolutionary history was stoked at an early age. “I grew up in Annapolis, Maryland, which was a significant 18th century town during the American Revolution where George Washington resigned his Commission and Lafayette visited frequently,” she explained. “I also went to a school built on the property shared with the home of John Carroll of Carrollton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.”

Previous to joining the American Independence Museum, Seely’s prior preservation experience included managing the complete restoration of her 1868 Victorian Italianate house in Metuchen, New Jersey. “In the early 20th century, it was home to New England author Mary Wilkins Freeman, and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2019,” she said.

While a resident of Metuchen, Seely served on the Metuchen Historic Preservation Committee for 10 years. Working with county grants, the Committee identified historically significant neighborhoods and successfully nominated the town’s first Historic District to the National Register.

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 to Host Holiday Tavern Open House

Two tables decorated for a winter holiday event.

On Thursday, December 1 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the American Independence Museum will host Holiday Tavern Open House at Folsom Tavern (c. 1775). Presented by Kennebunk Savings, the free event will feature light refreshments, make and take crafts, and a silent auction with proceeds to benefit the museum’s programs and tour experiences.

“This is a chance for people new and familiar to experience the Tavern, which will be beautifully decorated for the holidays,” said Jennifer Carr, executive director. “We look forward to concluding a terrific 2022 season with this fun and festive event.”

Highlights from the 2022 season included the continued travels of the museum’s Traveling Trunk program, which provides students across the nation and older adults with insights into the Revolutionary War and its connection to the present. “The program continues to expand and engage people of all ages,” said the museum’s Sarah Jaworski, who manages the program.

The museum also held its annual American Independence Festival in July, which in recent years has evolved to include a theme of inclusivity and diversity of historical perspectives. “History is not static nor can it be told from just one perspective,” explained Carr, who said 2023 will feature exhibits with “more inclusive storylines.” “We have a responsibility to interpret history in broad contexts that invite multiple perspectives.”

In commenting on Holiday Tavern Open House, Carr said she hopes it serves as an open invitation to the community. “This is a fun, low-key event where anyone can come and learn more about what we offer,” she said.

Holiday Tavern Open House takes place from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 1 at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter. Attendance is free.

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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Beer for History Concludes with UNH Brewing Science Laboratory

Beer for History Concludes with UNH Brewing Science Laboratory

Presented by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, the American Independence Museum’s Beer for History series concludes with UNH Brewing Science Laboratory as featured brewer on Thursday, November 3, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. At this event, UNH BrewLab will pour Harvest Thyme (brown ale), Chocolate Bog (chocolate cranberry milk stout), and Wildcat Wheat (Belgian wheat ale).

“This is a wonderful way to close Beer for History out this year,” said Museum Executive Director Jennifer Carr. “This series is known for providing people with the chance to try lesser known, or difficult to buy locally, beers. UNH BrewLab is delivering on this theme.”

In addition to unique brews, Beer for History features colonial-inspired games, music, and light snacks. Beer for History is family-friendly and also features the Foy Family Children’s Library within Folsom Tavern, a space with curated books for kids, comfortable seating, dress-up area with Revolutionary-era clothing, play kitchen, games, and more.

Beer for History with UNH Brewing Science Laboratory takes place on Thursday, November 3 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for non-members, while youth (under 21) are free.

To purchase tickets, or learn more about Beer for History, click here.

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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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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American Independence Museum to Host Lunch & Learn

Cover of the book New Hampshire War Monuments. Text is in white font over a dark green background. Images of stone monuments are located above and below the title bar.

On Thursday, November 10 at 12 noon, the American Independence Museum will host Lunch & Learn: NH War Monuments, its first such program since the onset of the pandemic.

“We are thrilled to again welcome people back to our popular Lunch & Learn series,” said Program Manager Sarah Jaworski. “This one will be interesting, too, as Kathleen and Sheila Bailey discuss their book, New Hampshire War Monuments: The Stories Behind the Stones.”

Exploring the “heartbreaking history and backstories” of some of the statues and plaques that dot New Hampshire’s cities and landscapes, New Hampshire War Monuments: The Stories Behind the Stones was published in August 2022.

Stories in the book range from a heartbroken Danish sculptor who gives a gift to the town where his late wife enjoyed summers to the way a daughter pays tribute to her father, killed in the Civil War. “The book explores the stories behind New Hampshire’s war monuments, memorials, and other tributes to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Jaworski. “These are literally the stories behind the stones.”

Lunch & Learn: NH War Monuments takes place, 12 noon to 1:00 p.m., on Thursday, November 10 at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter. Attendance is free, and people are encouraged to bring a bagged lunch. Signed copies of Signed copies New Hampshire War Monuments: The Stories Behind the Stones will be available for purchase.

Home to a world-class collection of 3,000 historic artifacts, the museum is currently developing a variety of public and education programs in digital formats to encourage digital inclusion for all ages. Click here to learn more.

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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Discover the Spiritualist Connections of Exeter’s Folsom Tavern

Folsom Tavern

On Thursday, October 27, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., on the Folsom Tavern Lawn, the American Independence Museum will host Spirits of the Past, which focuses on the 19th century Spiritualist movement.

Patricia Cizewski, member of the pastoral committee of the First Spiritualist Church of Salem, MA, will speak on Spiritualism, while a mediumship demonstration will wrap up the evening.

“Mediumship is the practice of facilitating communication between familiar spirits, or spirits of the dead, and living human beings,” said Program Manager Sarah Jaworski. “We anticipate an exciting evening full of surprises.”

In addition to providing insight into the Spiritualist movement’s ties to America’s founding principles on freedom of religion, the program will explore its connection to a former tenant of the museum’s Folsom Tavern. “At one time, there was a spiritualist who conducted ‘demonstrations’ from the tavern, so this program highlights some lesser known local history,” said added Jaworski.

Spirits of the Past will take place on the lawn outside Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The cost is $15 for non-members and $10 for members with light refreshments provided. Click here to purchase tickets.

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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Discover the Famous and Infamous Residents of Exeter’s Winter Street Cemetery with the American Independence Museum

Winter Street Cemetery is the final resting place of many of Exeter’s most prominent early residents.

On Saturday, October 22, the American Independence Museum will host Ghosts of Winter Street Cemetery, a popular family-friendly event that takes visitors on a tour through Exeter’s history.

“Our colonial guide meets you at Winter Street Cemetery and walks you through it while showing you the graves of some of Exeter’s most famous and infamous revolutionary residents,” said the museum’s Sarah Jaworski.

Primarily used from the 1740’s to 1870’s, Winter Street Cemetery is the final resting place of many prominent members of Exeter, including governors, pioneering business women, Revolutionary and Civil War veterans, politicians and others.

Ghosts of Winter Street Cemetery takes place every 30 minutes, 4:00 p.m. through 5:30 p.m., at Winter Street Cemetery on Saturday, October 22. There is a 3 p.m. tour designed especially for families with elementary school aged children, who are invited to wear their Halloween costume while discovering stories of the past.

All tours will last approximately 45 minutes with guests encouraged to bring flashlights for the last two tours. The cost is $10 for non-members and $7 for non-member children, ages 6-18. Members are $5 and members’ children, ages 6-18, are $3. All children under 6 are free. To purchase tickets, click here.

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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Earth Eagle Returns to Beer for History

Alex McDonald of Earth Eagle Brewings

Held on the grounds of the American Independence Museum at Folsom Tavern (c. 1775) in Exeter, Beer for History provides history lovers and beer aficionados with the opportunity to sample brews from across New Hampshire. Scheduled to next take place on Thursday, October 20 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Earth Eagle Brewings is the next featured brewer.

“They have been here several times, so we are excited they can visit with us again,” noted Museum Executive Director Jennifer Carr.

Established in Portsmouth in 2012, Earth Eagle Brewings also features Earth Eagle North in Somersworth, a location that is now their primary brewing facility. At Beer for History, Earth Eagle Brewings will bring several varieties of beer, highlighted by their best-seller, New England Gangsta’, a West Coast style IPA with Pacific NW hops.

Other beers for which Earth Eagle Brewings has become well-known include Armadillo Danger (a single-hopped American pale featuring Amarillo hops), Piscataqua (an American corn lager), Circling Birds (a double-dry hopped DIPA), and Birds from Mars (a tropical IPA).

“If you love craft beer and beautifully restored historic taverns, you’ll love Beer for History,” added Carr, who said musician Artty Francoeur will also perform. “He plays the harmonica and guitar, and he sings, too, so he is a wonderful addition to the evening’s festivities.”

Presented by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, Beer for History is family-friendly and features the Foy Family Children’s Library within Folsom Tavern. A space filled with curated books for kids that focus on 18th century life and a reading nook with comfortable seating, the Library additionally features a dress-up area with Revolutionary-era clothing, play kitchen, games, and more.

Beer for History with Earth Eagle Brewings takes place on Thursday, October 20 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH. In addition to unique brews, Beer for History features colonial-inspired games, music, and light snacks. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for non-members, while youth (under 21) are free.

Other remaining events in the series include UNH Brewing Science Laboratory (based in Durham) on November 3. To purchase tickets, or learn more about Beer for History, click here.

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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Beer for History to Feature Sap House Meadery

Matt Trahan of Sap House Meadery sits atop pyramidally stacked oak barrels wearing jeans, a flannel, and a grey beanie.

A craft meadery located between the Lakes Region and White Mountains of New Hampshire in Center Ossipee, Sap House Meadery will headline the next Beer for History at the American Independence Museum’s historic Folsom Tavern. Beer for History with Sap House Meadery takes place on Thursday, October 6 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Presented by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, the popular series generally features brewers that are not local to the greater Exeter or Seacoast regions. “It’s a chance to not just celebrate history, but provide adult guests with the opportunity to sample unique brews, wine, or mead in this case that may not available locally,” said the museum’s Jennifer Carr. “We are thrilled to introduce people to a world-class meadmaker in Sap House Meadery.”

Matt Trahan, co-founder of Sap House Meadery, said he is equally thrilled to join Beer for History for the first time and introduce people to mead, widely regarded as the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage. “Mead is made from honey and predates grape wine and beer—it goes back to the Egyptians over 7,000 years ago,” he explained.

Regarding what will be on tap, Trahan cited three “outstanding” meads, although he acknowledged My Hour of Darkness (15% ABV) may feature their most interesting backstory. “It’s a collaboration with Ft. Hamilton Distilling in New York where we aged our traditional mead for 18 months in their rye whiskey barrels,” he said. “It picks up all the good pepper notes of a rye, the sweet vanilla of the oak, and combines it with the richness of the honey.”

Noting it drinks like “a very easy going spirit,” Trahan said it has been their most popular release to date. It may also be of particular interest to fans, new and old, of the American Independence Museum.

“Ft. Hamilton Distilling is steeped in Revolutionary War history,” he said. “Their tagline of ‘Hearts of Oak’ references an Alexander Hamilton raid on Manhattan Island that resulted in the first US Artillery Battery being formed.”

In addition to My Hour of Darkness, Sap House Meadery is expected to bring Ready to Drum, a light, carbonated session mead flavored with strawberries, red currants, and blueberries. “It’s a great mead for hiking, boating, and generally being outside,” said Trahan. “Ready to Drum” comes from an old saying to describe berries so ripe that they make a drumming sound as they drop into a bucket. We found the line in an old Robert Frost poem.”

Sap House Meadery will also bring Sugar Maple, the first mead they ever made. “It’s both honey and maple syrup fermented together, which gives it a complex, smokey, and earthy note beyond the sweetness,” explained Trahan. “It’s great as an after-dinner sipper or mixed into a cocktail.”

Beer for History with Sap House Meadery takes place from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 6 at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH. In addition to unique brews, Beer for History features colonial-inspired games, music, and light snacks. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for non-members, while youth (under 21) are free.

Other remaining events in the series include Earth Eagle Brewings (Portsmouth) on October 20, and UNH Brewing Science Laboratory (Durham) on November 3. To purchase tickets, or learn more about Beer for History, 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’.

Lunch and Learn: NH War Monuments

Cover of the book New Hampshire War Monuments. Text is in white font over a dark green background. Images of stone monuments are located above and below the title bar.

Date: Thursday, November 10
Time: 12-1 p.m.
Location: Folsom Tavern
Cost: Free
Capacity: 30

Grab a bagged lunch and head over to the Folsom Tavern for our first Lunch and Learn since the pandemic.

Learn how the Granite State honors the sacrifices of its many brave veterans, memorializing their stories in statues, bridges, buildings and highways. Join Kathleen and Sheila Bailey as they recount the stories behind the stones.

Join these authors as they highlight New Hampshire monuments associated with the American Revolution. Signed copies of the book will be available for purchase.Lunch & Learns are held in Folsom Tavern, 164 Water Street, Exeter, NH and are free and open to the public. You are welcome to bring your lunch to eat during the presentation. Parking is available in the Museum parking lot on Spring Street, Exeter Municipal Lots, and street parking on Water Street. Please note that lectures will take place on the second floor of the Folsom Tavern. Because of the historic nature of the building it is not handicap accessible.

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’.

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