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Tag: guided tours

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Researching Early New England Ancestry to take place on September 21

As a group, 17th century New Englanders are an extensively studied population, which serves as a backdrop for the next workshop in the American Independence Museum’s Genealogy Workshop Series on Saturday, September 21.

“In many cases, town vital records, church, colony, court, probate, land, military, and tax records have not only survived, but have been abstracted and published,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “The question is how can we locate and use these original and published records, which is what will be explored in this workshop.”

Entitled “Researching Early New England Ancestry,” the workshop will be facilitated by David Allen Lambert, chief genealogist, New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS), which is presenting the workshop series in partnership with the museum.

“The New England Historic Genealogical Society is the premier authority in this industry, so it is a pleasure to work with them again for this series,” added Bray.

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

“Researching Early New England Ancestry” takes place on Saturday, September 21 from 1 pm to 4 pm. Fees are $20 for museum/NEHGS members and $30 for ‘not-yet’ members. Reservations are required.

The museum’s Genealogy Workshop Series is sponsored by the William W. Treat Foundation.

To purchase workshop tickets, 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.

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Lecture to explore community and history

On Wednesday, September 18 at 6:30 pm, the American Independence Museum will host “Understanding your Community from a Historical Perspective” as part of its 2019 Lecture Series, sponsored by People’s United Bank.

At the lecture held in the museum’s 1775 Folsom Tavern, a panel discussion will be led by experts from Exeter Public Library, Exeter Historical Society, Historic New England’s Gilman Garrison House, and American Independence Museum. 

Topics that will be explored include historic institutions’ roles in communities and how understanding community from a historic perspective can be an in-road to civic engagement, community building, and local vibrancy.

“The lecture is a chance for anyone to learn more about us and other historic agencies and our respective roles in helping build community,” noted museum Executive Director Emma Bray.

The larger message behind the lecture, she added, is that “civic engagement matters.” 

“Civic engagement is our theme for this year, and we feel it is an important one,” said Bray. “Regardless of an individual’s personal political beliefs, it is important we champion civic engagement and encourage involvement. Civic engagement is a hallmark of American democracy.”

At the Series’ first lecture in May, Rebecca Rule explore the town meeting in New Hampshire.

“Each lecture this year peels back a layer of who we are as Americans and New Englanders,” added Bray. “We appreciate the support of People’s United Bank in making this series possible.”

To learn more about the museum’s evening Tavern Talks or afternoon Lunch and Learns as part of the 2019 Lecture Series, 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.

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Donahue Tucker & Ciandella to sponsor Beer for History Series

Celebrating the rich history of both Exeter and that of the Granite State, the 2019 Beer for History series recently garnered the attention of Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, which has agreed to sponsor it through 2020.

In 2019, Beer for History will expand to include 5 dates at which a featured brewer will pour several beers, colonial clad musicians will sing period-inspired music, and attendees may participate in various colonial games.

According to Lizabeth MacDonald of Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, Beer for History’s emphasis on fun and community is “a recipe for success.”

“It takes the colonial history of our state along with our strong belief in community and turns it into a festive, family-friendly affair,” she said. “We are very excited to get behind this series both this year and next.”

Emma Bray, museum executive director, said the multi-year support will help staff plan “the most engaging community events possible.”

“Knowing we have their support behind us allows us to plan ahead to 2020,” she said. “We are all very excited for this year’s series.”

This year, von Trapp Brewing and Throwback Brewery return to Beer for History, while Sea Dog Brewing, Tilton Brothers Brewing and Bad Lab Beer Co. join for the first time.

Scheduled to begin on Thursday, September 26, Beer for History events take place at the museum’s historic Folsom Tavern from 6pm to 8pm. Built in 1775, Folsom Tavern was visited by George Washington in 1789 for “a libation.”

“If George Washington enjoyed himself here, we hope you will, too,” laughed Bray.

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.

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RiverWoods Exeter to Sponsor Free Admission Day for Older Adults

Long-standing sponsors of the American Independence Museum, RiverWoods Exeter will sponsor Free Admission Day for older adults on Thursday, August 15, which will also commemorate its 25th anniversary.

“RiverWoods Exeter turns 25 on August 15, so we are thrilled we can work with the museum to provide free admission to older adults in our community and beyond,” said Felicia Gennetti, project coordinator at RiverWoods Exeter.

Noting they most recently supported the American Independence Festival in July, museum Executive Director Emma Bray said this latest partnership reflects an increasingly important organizational objective.

“We want to create opportunities to provide value and enhance lives for all members of our community, including underserved populations,” she said. “We have previously brought programs to RiverWoods, so Free Admission Day is our latest partnership…We value older adults in our community and we are grateful for RiverWoods for their support of this event.”

Gennetti agreed and said community engagement and involvement is an essential part of RiverWoods’ mission.

“Our resident community is part of the larger Exeter and Seacoast community,” she said. “We care about our residents and the vitality of our community. We are excited that we can celebrate 25 years in the community through such a fun and meaningful initiative.”

Free Admission Day for Older Adults will take place on Thursday, August 15 at the American Independence Museum, which is open 10 am to 4 pm.

For more information about RiverWoods Exeter, visit RiverWoodsExeter.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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