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Traveling Trunk puts history in the hands of students

With many secondary schools around the state forced to cut back on history classes due to budget shortfalls, the American Independence Museum launched a Traveling Truck pilot program early in 2017. Revealing different aspects of colonial life, the program provides experiential learning opportunities in American History directly in the classroom at no cost to school districts for elementary and middle school age children.

“History has a place in today’s classroom,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “There is so much more to history than rote memorization of facts and dates.”

Abigail Pietrantonio, education manager at the museum, agrees and said the program helps students develop many of the ‘middle skills’ required for success in “today’s fast-pace world.”

“Critical thinking, team-building, communication—these are some of the skills that research shows history can help students develop,” she said. “The study of history is as relevant as ever.”

Educating roughly 100 students this past spring in its pilot program, the Traveling Trunk is now fully implemented and has educated nearly 250 students this fall. Most recently, Pietrantonio traveled to Jacques Memorial Elementary School in Milford.

“It was great to be in the classroom with the kids,” she said. “I look forward to visiting more schools.”

For David Van Rossum, President/CEO of Service Credit Union, which is sponsoring the trunk through April of 2018, the program’s success has been “remarkable.”

“We are delighted the program has been so well received and we hope many other children from the Granite State will come to experience our rich history in such a fun and engaging way,” he said.

In each trunk—students have access to more than 70 high-quality replica items, while teachers are guided by a curriculum designed by the museum.

Expressing appreciation at the partnership with—and support from—Service Credit Union, Bray said the program helps to advance the museum’s mission “beyond [their] four walls.”

“The museum closes for tours in December, but this program makes us a year-round concern,” she said. “We are not just preserving history, we are help to teach it while inspiring today’s young learners to become tomorrow’s leaders…This is a great program that fills a very real educational need.”

To learn more about the Traveling Trunk program, or make an inquiry for your school, library, or similar institution, contact Abigail at [email protected].

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Museum to ‘ring in the season’

As part of Exeter’s Ring in the Season events, the American Independence Museum (AIM) in Exeter will celebrate the holidays from 5 pm to 8 pm on Friday, December 1 with its annual Holiday Celebration, presented by The Provident Bank.

At the event, visitors can toast the holidays with light refreshments, create Colonial holiday gifts, enjoy seasonal music, and visit their pop-up gift shop. The event will also feature a silent auction with numerous items up for bid, including a vacation and brewery tour package at Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, VT.

Folsom Tavern will be open for public tours Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm with refreshments available at Folsom Tavern from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm on Saturday for purchase for those watching the town’s Holiday Parade.

On Sunday, December 3, the tavern will be open from 1 pm to 5 pm as part of Womenade of Greater Squamscott’s Exeter Area Holiday Home Tour with tickets available through Womenade.

“This is the first year we’re taking full advantage of the Town of Exeter’s wonderful ‘Ring in the Season’ events that take place November 30 to December 3,” said Museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “We are looking forward to an exciting weekend.”

In addition to their annual holiday celebration on Friday, this is the first year the museum will serve refreshments during the holiday parade on Saturday and participate in Womenade’s Holiday Home Tour on Sunday.

Bray also expressed excitement that their Folsom Tavern is professionally decorated for the holidays this year.

“Our friends at The Willow across the street are decorating the tavern with financial support from The Provident Bank enabling us to host an expanded year-end celebration,” she added. “2017 was a wonderful year for us, so this is a fitting end to our season.”

Admission to Friday’s event is free for members, $5 for non-members, and $3 for non-member children.

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Museum to celebrate Small Business Saturday

In celebration of Small Business Saturday on November 25, the American Independence Museum will offer a 10% discount on all items in its gift shop, excluding consignment, with 20% off for members and business partners.

In extending a discount to business partners, museum Executive Director Emma Bray said she wanted to extend her gratitude to the businesses, many of whom are small to medium sized, that help support their mission.

“Small Business Saturday is a great concept—and we are all about local,” she said. “We have dozens of items—jewelry, soaps, teas and more—and they are all locally made in New Hampshire. Our gift shop has terrific holiday gift items.”

For Attorney John Sherman of Sherman Law, which recently signed on as a business partner, supporting the American Independence Museum makes sense.

“Local museums make an incredible impact on the community,” he said. “They provide a sense of social purpose, educate the public, and inspire diverse interests. Without local centers like the American Independence Museum, our Seacoast community’s identity just would not be the same.”

Having recently joined the museum as executive director earlier this year, Bray said she is encouraged at the new partnerships they have forged this year with area small businesses and hopes to attract others.

“Aside from preserving historical documents, the museum is committed to working with local partners to increase the visibility and vibrancy of Exeter,” she said. “I appreciate this town so much, I just bought my first home here with my husband. There is so much potential with this town and museum.”

On November 25, the Museum’s gift shop will be open from 10 am to 4 pm. It is located inside the museum’s Ladd-Gilman House, One Governor’s Lane in downtown Exeter.

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The idea of ‘democracy’ explored at next Tavern Talk

On Thursday, November 16 from 7 pm to 8 pm, UNH Professor Vanessa Druskat will present “Your Most Important Role in a Democracy: Thinking for Yourself” at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern. The lecture is the last in the museum’s 2017 Educational Lecture Series, which was presented in partnership with People’s United Bank.

In this lecture, Druskat will discuss numerous aspects related to the concept of democracy as well as how the ideal democratic system is often (and easily) influenced by forces and tactics that manipulate and alter the thinking of voters.

“This is a timely lecture that will explore propaganda and advertising and their roles today in current politics, which is also the subject of an exhibit here that runs through this month,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray.

At the end of the lecture, a question and answer session will take place.

“We are so grateful to People’s United Bank for presenting this series and enabling us to offer each lecture at no charge to guests,” added Bray. “We hope people will join us for this interesting and free community event.”

Due to limited space, email [email protected] to pre-register for a seat, although pre-registration is not required. There is no cost to attend these lectures, which take place at Folsom Tavern, 164 Water Street in Exeter, NH.

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Museum to “tell a story” on November 2

On Thursday, November 2 from 9:30 am to 12 noon, the American Independence Museum in Exeter will host the final Revolutionary Story Time session for preschool age children in 2017.

Begun in May, the series is sponsored by Exeter Hospital. Taking place at the museum’s 1775 Folsom Tavern, Thursday’s program will include 90 minutes of playtime, crafts, colonial games, and opportunities to try on colonial outfits. Previous to playtime, a costumed re-enactor will tell stories and possibly sing colonial-themed music.

“It’s a fun way to invite the community to our beautiful property and have a little fun with history, too,” said the museum’s Victoria Su, who organized the series. “We are thankful at Exeter Hospital’s support of this year’s first Revolutionary Story Time series and look forward to offering more events like this in the future.”

Home to a world-class collection, including an original and rare copy of the Declaration of Independence, the museum welcomes more than 5,500 visitors annually.

To register for Revolutionary Story Time on Thursday, November 2 from 9:30 to 12 noon at Folsom Tavern, 164 Water Street in Exeter, email [email protected].

Reservations are suggested for this free program, although donations will be gladly accepted with proceeds to benefit the museum. Due to the historic nature of the tavern, strollers are not allowed.

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Educational Lecture Series continues at Museum

Presented by People’s United Bank, the American Independence Museum’s Educational Lecture series continues in the coming weeks with two exciting free talks.

At the museum’s next Lunch and Learn, “Secrets of the American Independence Museum: Collection Close-Up,” on Tuesday, November 7 at Folsom Tavern, Museum Curator Rachel Passannante will discuss their vast collection.

“We have over 3,000 artifacts and objects here with many of them not part of our regular exhibits,” she said. “This is a chance to learn more about some of our most interesting items and the stories behind them.”

“Secrets of the American Independence Museum: Collection Close-Up” will take place at the museum’s Folsom Tavern in Exeter on November 7 from 12 noon to 1 pm with attendees encouraged to bring their lunch.

On Thursday, November 16 from 7 pm to 8 pm at Folsom Tavern, the museum will host a Tavern Talk entitled “Your Most Important Role in a Democracy: Thinking for Yourself” with UNH Professor Vanessa Druscat. At this talk, she will discuss the nature of democracy as well as the notion that social science demonstrates that majorities make better decisions than those made by individuals.

Expressing appreciation at presenting sponsor People’s United Bank, which has participated in several previous lectures, museum Executive Director said these talks are aimed at laypeople with an interest in history.

“These talks are for everyone,” she said. “They are informative and fun. They represent our way to engage the community with history in creative ways.”

Due to limited space, email [email protected] to pre-register for a seat, although pre-registration is not required. There is no cost to attend these lectures. To learn more about the museum, visit www.independencemuseum.org.

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The Provident Bank to present Annual Holiday Celebration at Folsom Tavern

Part of the American Independence Museum in downtown Exeter, Folsom Tavern will welcome more than 100 visitors on December 1 at its Annual Holiday Celebration, which will be presented by The Provident Bank.

Featuring a silent auction, costumed re-enactors, live music and more, this year’s annual event kicks off a weekend in which the museum’s Folsom Tavern will remain open. The weekend’s festivities conclude on Sunday, as Folsom Tavern is part of Womenade of Greater Squamscott’s Holiday Home Tour for the first time.

“Folsom Tavern will be professionally decorated for the holidays—it will be stunning,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray, who credited The Provident Bank’s support as “critical” to the weekend’s anticipated success.

“We are so grateful to partner with The Provident Bank to present a first-class holiday experience for visitors,” she added. “We look forward to exploring this partnership in the coming months.”

Will Waltrip, senior relationship manager at The Provident Bank, said he believes the museum’s educational programs enrich both local schools and inspire active citizenship. He said the museum reminds him of where he grew up as a child in Rowley, MA.

“The variety of programs that the American Independence Museum produces goes well beyond encouraging people to learn fun facts about American history,” he said. “They are urging locals to understand the historical value of their town and how investing in it can continue its rich history.”

For Bray, the value of their partnership extends well beyond that of a monetary exchange.

“Will has been to nearly every event we have hosted this year,” she said. “He and the bank have taken a meaningful look into what we are doing and have spoken with us at great length about our mission and vision here. Our strategies are aligned, which makes this partnership so special.”

Expressing enthusiasm at the partnership, Waltrip said their support of the museum reflects The Provident Bank’s overall giving strategy to help strengthen the communities served by their branches.

“By donating to the museum, it allows them to offer more programming and bring in more people to the Exeter community who will probably spend time shopping and eating in town…This contributes to the entire economic ecosystem.”

To learn more about the museum, or the upcoming event schedule, visit www.independencemuseum.org.

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2017 Beer for History series finishes strong

On Thursday, October 12, a large crowd could be seen spilling out of Folsom Tavern in Exeter with visitors eager to experience the final event of the annual Beer for History series for 2017.

“We had an incredible turnout—and we welcomed a lot of younger people, which was great to see,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “Our Tavern Scavenger Hunt was a big hit, too. Lexie’s had their food truck parked outside and Granite State Growler Tours was there—it was a fun evening.”

Sponsored by Hoefle Phoenix Gormley & Roberts, P.A. Attorneys at Law, Beer for History featured one local brewery at each of the three events with Neighborhood Beer Co. followed by 7th Settlement Brewery and most recently Earth Eagle Brewings.

“From our wonderful sponsor to the brewers who donated the beer and volunteered their time, our second annual Beer for History series was a great success,” added Bray. “We are very thankful that this community event continues to grow and we look forward to an even more successful series in 2018.”

Kevin Baum of Hoefle Phoenix Gormley & Roberts, P.A. Attorneys at Law said he is also enthused at the continued growth of the series, which he believes helps to highlight Exeter’s “rich cultural heritage.”

“This is a rich, vibrant community that has a lot to offer people of all ages,” he said. “Located in the center of this historic downtown, the museum serves as the gateway to all this town has to offer.”

Held at the museum’s Folsom Tavern in Exeter, Beer for History featured craft brews, hors d’oeuvres, games, and more. Founded in 1991, the nonprofit American Independence Museum features living history exhibits and a large collection that includes one of 26 surviving copies of the Declaration of Independence and two rare drafts of the U.S. Constitution.

 

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Service Credit Union renews partnership

Recently, Service Credit Union renewed their longstanding partnership with the American Independence Museum with an investment of $5,000 to support its Traveling Trunk program, which delivers an experiential learning opportunity into the classroom. As a result of Service Credit Union’s support, school districts throughout New Hampshire will have access to the program at no cost for the remainder of the 17/18 school year.

Museum Executive Director Emma Bray referred to Service Credit Union’s support as “a huge boost.”

“This is an incredible opportunity for us to extend learning outside our museum walls and engage students in the subject of history,” she said. “We are so thankful for Service Credit Union’s partnership.”

In electing to sponsor the Traveling Trunk program, David Van Rossum, President/CEO of Service Credit Union, said he believes in the larger vision of the museum, which is to encourage civic engagement in all citizens.

“This is an important program that will get students thinking about American history, the factors that led to the Revolutionary War, why it happened,” he said. “The biggest thing is that it will encourage discussion among students and a deeper understanding of what our freedoms mean today.”

As for the educational rationale behind the program, Bray said it reflects the 4 ‘Cs’ of 21st century learning, which are collaboration, communication, critical thinking and creativity.

“These are the skills that are required in today’s world—and the subject of history can help develop them in today’s students,” she said

In the trunk, students will be able to access more than 70 high-quality replica items, while teachers will be guided by a curriculum designed by the museum.

“The objective behind the program is to encourage research, judgments on the accuracy and reliability of sources, and a deeper awareness of multiple perspectives,” added Bray. “History is a lot more than memorizing dates.”

In addition to educating 5th through 8th grade students—although the curriculum can be modified to suit younger persons—the program also provides free family passes to the museum.

“We want to actively engage the whole family—and what better way to do that then to get them here for a tour?” noted Bray, who said both organizations share a core value.

“We both believe in serving our communities—and that belief drives us both,” she added. “We are very excited and thankful at this opportunity to educate students and families on the importance of Revolutionary history and its relevance to today.”

Currently, the Traveling Trunk program is at Little Harbour School in Portsmouth.

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Last chance to register for Ghosts of Winter Street Cemetery

A family-friendly event, Ghosts of Winter Street Cemetery provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about some of Exeter’s most famous residents from the colonial period with emphasis on the Folsom and Gilman families. Taking place at Winter Street Cemetery on Saturday, October 21 at the intersection of Winter Street, Front Street [Rt.111] and Railroad Avenue in Exeter, the event will feature costumed re-enactors.

“You will meet a sailor, tavern owners and more,” said Victoria Su, event manager at the museum. “It’s informative and fun—and all the re-enactor ‘ghosts’ will share details of their lives in and around Exeter in the 1700s. “You can ask them questions and chat with them. It’s a very unique experience.”

According to Su, 45-minute tours will take place at 1:00 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm and 2:30 pm. The cost is $10.00 for non-members, $7.00 for non-member children, ages 6-18. Members are $5.00 and $3.00 members’ children, ages 6-18. All children under the age of 6 are free.

A new twist to this year’s event is that admission to Ghosts of Winter Street Cemetery also provides access to the museum’s Ladd-Gilman House at One Governor’s Lane in Exeter.

To purchase tickets online, visit www.independencemuseum.org. For more information, call (603) 772-2622, or email or [email protected].

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