News & Blog

Facebook-f Instagram X-twitter

Tour Information: (603) 772-2622
Thursday – Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm

Tag: exeter nh

Posted on

Throwback Brewery returns to Beer for History

On Thursday, October 10, Throwback Brewery returns to the American Independence Museum’s Beer for History, presented by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella.

Bringing together some of the region’s finest craft brewers, including Stowe, Vermont’s von Trapp Brewing, which recently kicked off the series, Beer for History takes place in historic Folsom Tavern, built in 1775.

As for the next Beer for History, Co-Founder and President Nicole Carrier said they will bring Campfire Smoked Robust Porter, Heidi Go Seek Oktoberfest, Spicy Bohemian Jalapeno Pilsener and a fourth beer to be named later.

“We are thrilled to once again be part of  the American Independence Museum’s Beer For History,” she said. “Throwback was founded, after all, with a nod to history where women were the brewers and the beer was made using local ingredients and served in community-oriented pubs.”

Expressing appreciation for Throwback Brewery’s return to the series, museum Executive Director Emma Stratton said their participation has special significance.

“Folsom Tavern was run by Widow Folsom and her daughters at one point in its long history,” she said. “It it really incredible to see this thread of strong, business savvy women played out through history in our series.”

Other events in the series welcome Sea Dog Brewing (10/24), Tilton Brothers Brewing (11/7), and Bad Lab Beer Co. (11/21). Sea Dog Brewing will provide food at each event, which will also include colonial-inspired live music and games.

“If you want to learn a little bit about local history and enjoy yourselves in a family-friendly colonial tavern, Beer for History is for you,” added Stratton.

Tickets for each event are $15 for members and $20 for non-members, while youth (under 21) are $3. Ticket prices include beer (21+), entertainment and light snacks.

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.

Posted on

Revolutionary Story Time continues to attract families

Presented by Exeter Hospital, the American Independence Museum’s Revolutionary Story Time provides kids, ages 3 to 5, and their caregivers with free entertainment on the first Thursday of each month, April through December.

“It’s a chance for families with young children to come and experience a space that is accessible, fun, and educational,” said museum Executive Director Emma Stratton. “There is real value in offering families this ‘third community space,’ and we are so thankful to partner with Exeter Hospital again to make this a reality.”

Featuring story-telling, live music and play-time, Revolutionary Story Time! next takes place at the museum’s Folsom Tavern on Thursday, October 3 from 2 to 4 pm.

Exeter Hospital’s Jenn McGowan said she is thrilled to see the continued growth of the program.

“We view community health from a very broad perspective, and it includes community space accessible to as many members of the community as possible,” she said. “Revolutionary Story Time is wonderful because it creates a family-friendly and safe space.”

On the first Thursday of each month through December from 2 to 4 pm at the museum’s Folsom Tavern at 164 Water Street in Exeter, kids and families are entertained by stories and live music. 

After the 30+ minute storytime program, parent-supervised playtime includes imaginary play, colonial games and period dress-up. 

Revolutionary Story Time takes place across the street from Swasey Parkway, which hosts Exeter Farmers’ Market from 2:15 pm to 6 pm every Thursday through October 31.

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.

Posted on

Harman Law Offices to present Re-Imagined Huzzah Family Workshop Series

Presented by Harman Law Offices, the American Independence Museum’s Huzzah Family Workshop Series this fall will present an opportunity for families to create (and eat) historically accurate food together. The series will also explore the relevance of colonial foodways to today.

At the first session on October 23 at the museum’s Folsom Tavern, families will use a variety of greens and vegetables that would have been available to colonists to prepare historically accurate salads. 

At the second session on November 20, families will make colonial cole slaw, which would have been made with vinegar as a means of preserving vegetables through the winter.

“I am delighted to sponsor this revamped series, which will engage entire families in activities that will get them thinking about history and have fun at the same time,” said Terrie Harman of Harman Law Offices.

According to museum Executive Director Emma Stratton, Harman’s support enabled the museum to devote additional time and resources to reconceive the program.

“We are very excited to work with Terrie and local restaurants to deliver an innovative new take on our Huzzah Family Workshop Series,” she said. “Creating an opportunity for families to both create a part of a meal and eat that meal in our historic Tavern is essential to connecting today.”

Both sessions are free, although there may be additional options to pre-purchase food from nearby restaurants to complement what participants make in the sessions. Details regarding times of the sessions and cost of additional food add-ons will be released soon.

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.

Posted on

Craft beer, live music and more at Beer for History

In a tavern that once welcomed George Washington, the American Independence Museum will launch the 4th Annual Beer for History on Thursday, September 26 with von Trapp Brewing from Stowe, VT.

von Trapp Brewing’s Sam von Trapp, who will be at the event on Thursday, September 26, said he is excited to once again “share their beer for history.”

“As brewers of fine craft beer, honoring our history and traditions is part of our DNA,” he said. “It is great to work with the American Independence Museum, which keeps history not only alive, but relevant for people of all ages.”

New Hampshire’s Revolutionary War Capital, Exeter is a town with a history that began to a large extent with the Gilman family, prosperous Exeter merchants linked to the fight for independence.

“We tell this story at the museum and how Exeter played a role in founding our nation,” added Stratton. “Beer for History is our way of celebrating this unique history in a fun, family-friendly way.”

Beer for History is presented by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella.

“We are thrilled to be part of this series both this year and next,” said Lizabeth MacDonald of Donahue Tucker & Ciandella. “Community and our shared history are two very important things to us, and Beer for History combines them both.”

In addition to von Trapp Brewing on Thursday, September 26, Beer for History features Throwback Brewery (10/10), Sea Dog Brewing (10/24), Tilton Brothers Brewing (11/7), and Bad Lab Beer Co. (11/21). Sea Dog Brewing will provide food at each event, which will also include colonial-inspired live music and games.

“It’s a lot of fun and a chance to experience history in an engaging way,” said Stratton. “We also have some of the best brewers involved, too…We are grateful to be involved in such a community .”

Tickets for each event are $15 for members and $20 for non-members. Series tickets are $60 and $80 for members and nonmembers, respectively, while youth (under 21) are $3. Ticket prices include beer (21+), entertainment and light snacks.

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.

Posted on

American Independence Museum to offer Homeschool Days

On Friday, September 27, October 18 and November 15, respectively, the American Independence Museum in Exeter will host Homeschool Day: Colonial Living Days for homeschool students. 

In the 90-minute program, facilitated by 18th century re-enactors, students of all ages will learn about various facets of everyday colonial life. Activities in the program include colonial games, quill writing, discussions about the lives of militia men and more.

“In the program, students are encouraged to collaborate with others, make inquiries and work as teams–it is a great 21st Century educational experience,” said museum Executive Director Emma Stratton.

Homeschool Day: Colonial Living Days will take place on Friday, September 27, October 18 and November 15 from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm at the museum’s Folsom Tavern in downtown Exeter. 

The cost is $5 for adults, $8 for students and free for children 2 and under. Pre-registration is required and space is limited.

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.

Posted on

American Independence Museum’s Genealogy Workshop Series continues on Saturday, September 21

Sponsored by the William W. Treat Foundation, the next workshop in the American Independence Museum’s Genealogy Workshop Series takes place on Saturday, September 21.

Entitled “Researching Early New England Ancestry,” the workshop will explore how to locate and use published town vital records, church, colony, court, probate, land, military, and tax records.

“In some cases, these records have survived from the 17th century and been abstracted and published,” noted museum Executive Director Emma Stratton. “This workshop will teach attendees how to find and use them to support their own research.”

Presented in partnership with New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS), the workshop will take place from 1 to 4 pm at the museum’s Folsom Tavern on Saturday, September 21.

Fees are $20 for museum/NEHGS members and $30 for ‘not-yet’ members. Space is limited, reservations are required.

The final workshop in the series, “Writing Your Family History: Taking the First Steps,” takes place on November 16.

To purchase workshop tickets, 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.

Posted on

People’s United Bank to present “Understanding your Community from a Historical Perspective”

Presented by People’s United Bank, the American Independence Museum’s 2019 Lecture Series continues with “Understanding your Community from a Historical Perspective”on Wednesday, September 18 at 6:30 pm.

This lecture’s format will be unique in that the discussion will be led by a panel of experts from the museum, Exeter Public Library, Exeter Historical Society and Historic New England’s Gilman Garrison House.

According to museum Executive Director Emma Stratton, the subject matter is equally unique.

“Civic engagement will be at the heart of our discussion,” she said. “Understanding community from a historic perspective can be an in-road to civic engagement and local vibrancy.”

Stratton said she also believes attendees will walk away with a deeper understanding of the role historic institutions like the museum play in society today.

“We are not simply stewards of history,” she said. “We interpret and teach it…We are also community builders.”

To learn more about People’s United Bank’s 2019 Lecture series at the American Independence Museum, which include evening  Tavern Talks and afternoon Lunch and Learns, 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.

Posted on

Edward Jones to present ‘peek’ inside the American Independence Museum

On Wednesday, September 25, the American Independence Museum will host “Inside the American Independence Museum” an event designed for the corporate sector to learn more about the museum and its value as an economic force.

“We educate visitors both on and off-site, we preserve important historic items, we create revenue generating opportunities for other businesses,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “This is a chance to learn more about us and all museums, which are complex business entities.”

Taking place from 5:30 to 7:30 pm on the patio of the Ladd-Gilman House, the free event is sponsored by Karin Behrens-Bouvier, financial advisor with Edward Jones.

A longtime supporter of the museum, Behrens-Bouvier said she believes the American Independence Museum is important to not just Exeter, but the greater Seacoast region.

“I have always admired their role in the community and their efforts to educate people as well as provide a place for locals and tourists to gather throughout the year,” she said. “I look forward to learning more about the museum, its unique collection and to meet fellow civic-minded corporate citizens.”

Featuring light appetizers and drinks, “Inside the American Independence Museum” is free and designed specifically for the corporate sector. The event will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 pm on Wednesday, September 25 on the patio of the museum’s Ladd-Gilman House at 1 Governors Lane.

“This is a chance for business owners and those in the corporate sector to learn more about us and to brainstorm ways we can potentially collaborate with one another,” added Bray. 

RSVP is required. To RSVP for the event, email Bray at [email protected]. 

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.

Posted on

von Trapp Brewing to kick off Beer for History

Sponsored by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, Beer for History kicks off on Thursday, September 26 in Exeter with von Trapp Brewing, known for brewing European style lagers.

Held at Folsom Tavern, part of the American Independence Museum, Beer for History will continue every other Thursday from 6 to 8 pm through November 21 with a different brewer featured at each event. Other featured brewers include Sea Dog Brewing, Tilton Brothers Brewing, Throwback Brewery and Bad Lab.

As for what people can expect in terms of beer at the series’ first event, Ben Douglas of von Trapp Brewing, based in Stowe, VT, said they plan to bring their Helles, Oktoberfest and Dunkel.

“The drinkability and smoothness that lagers possess is what sets them apart from ales,” he said. “It’s a subtle difference that many craft drinkers don’t really know about, which is why I’m excited we can be at this event and introduce people to our lagers.”

In addition to Douglas, Sam von Trapp of von Trapp Brewing and Trapp Family Lodge will be present at Beer for History, marking the second time he has attended a Beer for History event. 

“In order to make a good beer, you have to care about its history and what came before it,” said von Trapp, whose family inspired the movie, The Sound of Music, with Julie Andrews. “That is what makes this series so interesting, because it places our beer in a fun and broader historical context.”

Expressing gratitude at each brewer’s participation in the series, museum Executive Director Emma Bray said proceeds from each event supports educational programs and historic preservation.

“Beer for History is an entry point into the museum’s fascinating history,” she said. “Folsom Tavern once hosted George Washington, so it is fun and meaningful to enjoy a pint in the same room where he did, too.”

At each event, guests can meet and talk with the brewers, sample their beers, hear live colonial music, play colonial-inspired games and more.

Tickets for each event are $15 for members and $20 for non-members. Series tickets are $60 and $80 for members and nonmembers, respectively, while youth (under 21) are $3. Ticket prices include beer (21+), entertainment, light snacks from Sea Dog Brewing and more.

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

Posted on

Kids have a “Revolutionary” time at American Independence Museum

On Thursday, September 5, Exeter Hospital will present Revolutionary Story Time! at the American Independence Museum.

Designed to entertain kids, ages 3 to 5, and their families, the free series features story-telling, live music and play-time.

“It’s a 2-hour program with a little bit of structure and plenty of time and space in which to play,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “We want to invite families to visit us and enjoy our property.”

Describing the museum “as more than a cultural institution,” Bray said it is important that their programs “engage people of all ages.”

“It is very important that people view us as a community resource, which is why our partnership with Exeter Hospital is so important,” she said. “Their support enables us to create a fun and lively program for young kids and their parents and caregivers.”

According to Jenn McGowan of Exeter Hospital, the museum’s emphasis on community reflects a shared core value.

“Both organizations believe in a healthy and strong community, and we can take a meaningful step toward that by working together,” she said. “It’s great to see kids and families taking advantage of this wonderful program.”

On the first Thursday of each month through December from 2 to 4 pm at the museum’s Folsom Tavern at 164 Water Street in Exeter, kids and families are entertained by stories and live music. After the 30+ minute program, parent-supervised playtime includes imaginary play, colonial games and period dress-up.

Due to the historical nature of the Tavern, strollers are not encouraged, as the building is not handicapped accessible. Reservations are accepted but not required. 

To learn more about Revolutionary Story Time!, or the museum, visit www.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.

Book Now Book Now