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

Tag: guided tours

Homeschool Day: Colonial Living Days Spring 2020

A day just for homeschoolers! History comes alive as students travel to the 18th century to learn about daily life in the colonies. Possible activities include:

    • Don colonial clothing and learn about the wardrobe of a colonial child
    • Hear about the day in the life of a militia man from a local Revolutionary War participant
    • Try out some colonial games, including hoops and graces
    • Participate in a mock one-room school house demonstration
    • Hear stories of sailors and maritime adventures
    • Use a quill pen to write

CLICK TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Notes:

  • ​This is not a drop-off program. Parents must accompany children for the duration of the program.
  • Admission for the program must be paid in advance.  Payment may be completed either online or at the museum. No refunds will be made unless the Museum cancels the event. 
  • Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to scheduled program for check-in.  
  • ​The event will take place rain or shine. Please ask your students to dress appropriately for the weather, as some activities may take place outside.
  • Due to the historic nature of the buildings, the museum is not handicap accessible.
  • Parking is quite limited, so ​carpooling is encouraged. Two hour on-street parking is available and the Museum’s parking lot is located on Spring Street (behind Folsom Tavern). Please do not park in the lot located near the Ladd-Gilman House (yellow building) and bank or bank parking lot.  
  • Please feel free to utilize museum grounds for lunch, but please be sure to take any trash with you.
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American Independence Museum to open Foy Family Children’s Library in 2020

The site of many American Independence Museum programs, Folsom Tavern (c. 1775) will undergo a transformation in 2020 with the creation of the Foy Family Children’s Library.

Featuring curated books, seating for children, activity table and more, the Foy Family Children’s Library is made possible by a gift from Jeff and Melissa Foy of East Kingston.

According to Jeff Foy, who has supported the museum for years as co-owner of Foy Insurance, the gift ensures “there will be a permanent place for kids at the museum.”

“My wife Melissa was an elementary school librarian before retiring and I have always loved history, so we saw a chance to combine both our passions and make a lasting impact here,” he said. “We are thrilled to be part of the museum and this project.”

In addition to a dedicated space for a children’s library, the gift will enable the museum to upgrade its entire Children’s Room, which will include high-quality games, clothes, toys and more.

“This library and space is part of a larger initiative to transform our campus into an inviting space for local community members and visitors to Exeter,” said Emma Stratton, museum Executive Director. “We are very thankful for this gift.”

Noting work will begin sometime in February or March, the Foy Family Children’s Library is expected to be complete and open for the start of the American Independence Museum’s 2020 season on May 1. 

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.

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American Independence Museum to open Foy Family Children’s Library in 2020

The site of many American Independence Museum programs, Folsom Tavern (c. 1775) will undergo a transformation in 2020 with the creation of the Foy Family Children’s Library.

Featuring curated books, seating for children, activity table and more, the Foy Family Children’s Library is made possible by a gift from Jeff and Melissa Foy of East Kingston.

According to Jeff Foy, who has supported the museum for years as co-owner of Foy Insurance, the gift ensures “there will be a permanent place for kids at the museum.”

“My wife Melissa was an elementary school librarian before retiring and I have always loved history, so we saw a chance to combine both our passions and make a lasting impact here,” he said. “We are thrilled to be part of the museum and this project.”

In addition to a dedicated space for a children’s library, the gift will enable the museum to upgrade its entire Children’s Room, which will include high-quality games, clothes, toys and more.

“This library and space is part of a larger initiative to transform our campus into an inviting space for local community members and visitors to Exeter,” said Emma Stratton, museum Executive Director. “We are very thankful for this gift.”

Noting work will begin sometime in February or March, the Foy Family Children’s Library is expected to be complete and open for the start of the American Independence Museum’s 2020 season on May 1. 

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

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Beer for History welcomes Sea Dog Brewing

Presented by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, the next Beer for History takes place on Thursday, Thursday 24 with Sea Dog Brewing the featured brewer.

Supplying food for each of the Series’ five events, Sea Dog Brewing is expected to bring three beers, each of which are only available hyper-locally. Exeter River Red is an Irish Red Ale in which the grain bill has been enhanced to give it greater complexity; Newington Abbey Ale, a traditional Belgium Trappist Abbey Ale; and Merrimac Valley Cream Ale is a lighter smoother beer that utilized corn in addition to barley to give it a more creamy quality.

In addition to craft brew and beer, the event will feature live colonial-inspired music and entertainment. Each event in the Series take place in historic Folsom Tavern (1775), which is one of two structures on the property of the American Independence Museum, which organizes it.

“This is a chance to have a beer where George Washington had one in 1789,” said Series Organizer Victoria Su. “It’s festive, fun and family-friendly.”

Other events in the Series include Tilton Brothers Brewing (11/7) and Bad Lab Beer Co. (11/21). 

“The series is even more enjoyable because it features brewers deeply invested in the community,” added Su. “By supporting us and them, you support Exeter and surrounding towns while having a great night out.”

Proceeds from the event support educational programming and care of the museum’s collection, which includes two working drafts of the US Constitution and an original copy of the Declaration of Independence. 

Tickets for each Beer for History 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. $10 designated driver tickets are also available.

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.

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Huzzah Family Workshop to Explore Colonial Salad

On Wednesday, October 23 at the first of two workshops in the American Independence Museum’s Huzzah Family Workshop Series, presented by Harman Law Offices, participants will create an historically accurate colonial salad.

In addition to making a salad, participants will also learn about urban foraging today from Leslie Stevens, a UNHCE Master Gardener, Natural Resources Steward, and owner of Sturgeon Creek Farm in Eliot, Maine. Currently on the boards of Seacoast Permaculture and Seacoast Eat Local, Stevens has taught children and their families to grow food for more than 10 years.

“This is a chance to discover how America’s early colonists used a variety of grown and harvested greens, including herbs and flowers, to create delicious salads,” said museum Executive Director Emma Stratton. “We feel this will be very popular with people of all ages.”

Advanced registration is encouraged, while participants may also elect to upgrade and pre-buy dinner prepared by Laney & Lu, or bring their own picnic to enjoy.

“This workshop is all about local food, so we are so thankful to have Laney & Lu join us,” added Stratton.

At the second workshop of the Series, families will make colonial cole slaw, which would have been made with vinegar, and discover various methods of food preservation for the winter months.

To register for Huzzah! Family Workshop: Colonial Salad, which takes place in the museum’s Folsom Tavern from 5 p.m. to 7p.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 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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Colonel & Mrs. Folsom, Ghosts to take center stage at American Independence Museum

On Saturday, October 26, the American Independence Museum will host “Ghosts of Folsom Tavern and Winter Street Cemetery Tour.”

The tour will begin at Folsom Tavern where Colonel & Mrs. Folsom will introduce guests to their 1775 home and business. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet Elizabeth Ewer, a 19th century spiritualist who lived in the tavern. Participants will then walk or drive to Winter Street Cemetery to meet their colonial tour guide, who will reveal the Folsoms’ final resting place and discuss the graves of many of Exeter’s famous and infamous revolutionary residents.

“This is autumnal-themed, non-scary fun during the Halloween season that is appropriate for all ages,” noted the museum’s Victoria Su, who organizes the event.

Among Exeter’s earliest settlers, the Folsoms arrived with the Gilman family with whom they were related. The history of both families–and that of Exeter and its role in the Revolutionary War–feature prominently in the exhibits and collection at the American Independence Museum.

Ghosts of Folsom Tavern and Winter Street Cemetery Tour will take place on Saturday, October 26 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in Folsom Tavern with Winter Street Cemetery tours every 30 minutes beginning at 4 p.m. through 5:30 p.m. Cemetery tours will last approximately 45 minutes and guests attending the later two tours are encouraged to bring flashlights. 

The cost is $13 for non-members and $10 for non-member children, ages 6-18. Members are $8 and members’ children, ages 6-18, are $5. All children under the age of 6 are free.

Ticket prices include a visit to the museum day of the event (must visit Ladd-Gilman House before 3:30pm), activities and check in at Folsom Tavern with seasonal refreshments and cemetery tour.

To purchase tickets online, 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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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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