history museum - American Independence Museum

May 23, 2019July 3, 2021

“Researching Veteran Ancestors” to take place on June 8

While many can claim their ancestors served our nation, much less is likely known about their service, which is the subject of the next workshop in the American Independence Museum’s Genealogy Workshop Series.

Presented in partnership with the New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS), the workshop takes place on Saturday, June 8 from 1 to 4 pm in the museum’s Folsom Tavern.

At the workshop, entitled “Researching Veteran Ancestors: American Civil War, World War I, and World War II,” David Allen Lambert, chief NEHGS genealogist, will provide practical tools, tips, and strategies to research veteran ancestors.

“The New England Historic Genealogical Society is the foremost authority in this kind of research,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “This is your chance to learn from and speak with a leading expert and researcher.”

Upcoming workshops include “Researching Early New England Ancestry” (9/21) and “Writing Your Family History: Taking the First Steps” (11/16).

Individual workshop fees are $20 for museum and 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.

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.

May 16, 2019July 3, 2021

Museum to offer inside look at 18th century buildings

Building on the success of last year’s series, the American Independence Museum will host three Architecture Tours in 2019, scheduled for May 29, June 13, and September 24.

A ‘behind the scenes’ look at the ca. 1721 Ladd-Gilman House and ca. 1775 Folsom Tavern, the Architecture Tour provides insight into the evolution of both buildings, respective decorative styles and architectural features.

“There is so much history behind these structures that we thought it would be fun to take people into areas of the buildings you won’t find on a standard tour,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray.

Among many interesting historical footnotes, the Ladd-Gilman House was home to NH’s fifth Governor, John Taylor Gilman, who served in such capacity for a total of 14 years from 1794 to 1816. In 1985, a Dunlap Broadside, the first official printing of the Declaration of Independence, was re-discovered in its attic.

Originally built in the center of downtown Exeter where Me & Ollie’s exists today, Folsom Tavern is now “down the hill” from the Ladd-Gilman House and boasts a unique history of its own. In addition to where the New Hampshire Chapter of the Society of the Cincinnati was founded in 1783, Folsom Tavern welcomed George Washington in 1789 where he “partook in a collation” served by the Folsom family.

The Architecture Tour will take place from 10:30 am to 12 pm on Wednesday, May 29, Thursday, June 13, and Tuesday September 24.

Due to the historic nature of both buildings, they are not handicap accessible. Tickets are $10 for non-members and $5 for members.

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.

May 15, 2019July 3, 2021

Fostering ‘community’ within Exeter Hospital’s Revolutionary Story Time!

With its Traveling Trunk program criss-crossing the nation in its mission to educate youth, the American Independence Museum has made “impressive progress” locally with Revolutionary Story Time!, presented by Exeter Hospital.

Designed for kids, ages 3 to 5, and their families, the series is free and is helping to create what museum Executive Director Emma Bray described as “a third community space.”

“We have a great space for kids and families, and this series helps to open up our property to others who might not know much about us,” she said. “Revolutionary Story Time! is free and accessible to all in our local communities.”

The next Revolutionary Story Time! takes place on Thursday, June 6 from 2 to 4 pm during which time children are entertained by books, live music and stories.

After the initial 30 minute story time, families are invited to “stay and play” for parent-supervised playtime, which includes imaginary play, colonial games and period dress-up.

“It is so much fun to see kids and their families here for this program,” added Bray. “I’m thrilled we can partner with Exeter Hospital to provide this space at no charge to families.”

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.

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.

May 10, 2019July 3, 2021

Lecture Series kicks off on Wednesday, May 15

Sponsored by People’s United Bank, the 2019 Lecture Series kicks off on Wednesday, May 15 at 6:30 pm at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern.

Entitled “Moved and Seconded: Town Meeting in New Hampshire, the Present, the Past, and the Future,” this first lecture will be led by Rebecca Rule, who has hosted “The New Hampshire Authors Series” on NHPTV.

“At the lecture, people will hear many interesting stories of the rituals, traditions, and history of town meeting,” said Emma Bray, museum executive director. “Town meetings are unique to New England, so this is a neat chance to hear about the perennial characters, literature, humor, and wisdom of this uniquely New England institution.”

Open for the 2019 season, the American Independence Museum features a collection that is particular interest to active military and veterans, both groups recently granted free admission this year courtesy of Chinburg Properties.

“Our collection helps tell the story of how our nation was founded and the sacrifices of our nation’s first military,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “Anyone who has ever served will find our collection and the stories behind many of our objects especially interesting.”

In addition to active military and veterans, the gift from Chinburg Properties enables their families to take tours and access programs and events at no charge in 2019.

“We have worked very hard this offseason to modernize aspects of our exhibits, which will better engage people of all ages and learning styles,” said Bray. “Chinburg Properties is helping us reach people who may not otherwise know about us or be able to visit.”

For Jennifer Chinburg of Chinburg Properties, the investment in the museum directly benefits the surrounding communities.

“From their collection to education programs and family events, we believe in what the museum is doing in our communities,” she said. “We are honored to be able to support their work in the community as well as the sacrifices made by active military, veterans and their families.”

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.

May 9, 2019July 3, 2021

Chinburg Properties honors active military, veterans and their families

Open for the 2019 season, the American Independence Museum features a collection that is particular interest to active military and veterans, both groups recently granted free admission this year courtesy of Chinburg Properties.

“Our collection helps tell the story of how our nation was founded and the sacrifices of our nation’s first military,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “Anyone who has ever served will find our collection and the stories behind many of our objects especially interesting.”

In addition to active military and veterans, the gift from Chinburg Properties enables their families to take tours and access programs and events at no charge in 2019.

“We have worked very hard this offseason to modernize aspects of our exhibits, which will better engage people of all ages and learning styles,” said Bray. “Chinburg Properties is helping us reach people who may not otherwise know about us or be able to visit.”

For Jennifer Chinburg of Chinburg Properties, the investment in the museum directly benefits the surrounding communities.

“From their collection to education programs and family events, we believe in what the museum is doing in our communities,” she said. “We are honored to be able to support their work in the community as well as the sacrifices made by active military, veterans and their families.”

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.

May 6, 2019June 9, 2021

American Independence Museum to offer Homeschool Day

On Friday, May 10, the American Independence Museum in Exeter will host its popular Homeschool Day: Colonial Living Days for homeschool students.

In the 90-minute program, students of all ages will learn from 18th century re-enactors who will each provide glimpses into various facets of everyday colonial life.

Some examples of activities may include: learning about the wardrobe of a colonial child; trying out some colonial games; discussing the day in the life of a militia man or writing with a quill pen.

“This program has seen much success over the past few years and we’re excited to continue providing home school families with enrichment opportunities at our museum,” said Education Manager Abigail Pietrantonio.

Homeschool Day: Colonial Living Days will take place on Friday, May 10 from 12:00 pm to 1:30 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.

May 1, 2019July 3, 2021

Thousands expected at American Independence Festival

Featuring live music, colonial-inspired beer, food trucks, games for kids, traditional artisans, art and craft fair, and colonial battle re-enactments, the 29th Annual American Independence Festival on Saturday, July 13 will delight people of all ages.

“This a fun and unique family festival that showcases not only the wonderful community of Exeter and the greater Seacoast, but talent from across the region,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “Our art and craft fair alone brings in top vendors from New Hampshire Made and throughout region.”

For those interested in American colonial history, the festival features a working Artisans’ Village, sponsored by the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts.

“It’s a chance to interact with artisans who create items with the same tools and techniques as the colonial craftspeople who would have lived and worked in the area,” said the museum’s Victoria Su, who organizes the event.

Featuring colonial-inspired beer and beer garden outside the museum’s Folsom Tavern (c.1775) in which George Washington once enjoyed a libation, the festival also includes an original copy of a Dunlap Broadside printing of the Declaration of Independence. One of just 26 known to still exist, the Declaration of Independence will be available for viewing on just this one day.

“It is always very special and exciting to have the Declaration on view during the Festival. ,” said Bray, who noted visitors may also see two original working drafts of the US Constitution. “Being up close with these important founding documents is a wonderful way for guests to connect to the history of New Hampshire’s and nation’s Revolutionary history.” For Florence Ruffner of Ruffner Real Estate, which is sponsoring the parade with George Washington that marches through the center of historic downtown Exeter, the festival is unlike any event in the region.

“It is such a wonderful festival and perfect for families,” she said. “I think Exeter is a beautiful, dynamic town, and this event really showcases it for locals and tourists.”

In total, more than 4,000 visitors are expected to descend upon downtown Exeter, which includes numerous shops and restaurants that remain open during the festival. Just one hour north of Boston and one hour southwest of Portland, Maine, Exeter is accessible from both locations by train.

Tickets for the festival, which takes place on Saturday, July 13, are $10 for adults; $5 for ages 6 to 18; and free for children under 6, active and retired military, veterans, and Museum members.

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.

The museum is a member of the 17-member NH Heritage Museum Trail, which connects the public with culturally rich heritage institutions in New Hampshire. For more information about the NH Heritage Museum Trail, visit nhmuseumtrail.org.

April 25, 2019July 3, 2021

Busy first week of season for American Independence Museum

On Wednesday, May 1, the American Independence Museum opens for 2019 with a full week of programs capped off by Spring Tea in Folsom Tavern on Saturday, May 4 at 11am and 2pm.

The event, which features tea, assorted finger sandwiches, scones, and desserts by colonial inspired caterers, For the Love of Food and Drink, follows similar themed events in December.

“Our Holiday Tea sold out,” said the museum’s Victoria Su, who organizes the event. “This is a great way to celebrate spring and enjoy the ambiance of Folsom Tavern, which once entertained George Washington in his visit to Exeter in 1789.”

Earlier in the week on Thursday, May 2 from 2pm to 4pm, Folsom Tavern will also host Revolutionary Story Time!, presented by Exeter Hospital.

Designed to entertain kids, ages 3 to 5+, and their families, the free series provides, entertainment and live music. After the 30+ minute program, parent-supervised playtime includes imaginary play, colonial games and period dress-up.

According to Emma Bray, the upcoming 2019 season at the museum may be its busiest ever. This year, much of the museum’s programs and events are conceptually linked by a Civic Engagement theme.

“From our Lecture Series, presented by People’s United Bank, to our Genealogy Workshop series and more, we have an interesting lineup of programs this year that I think will surprise people,” she said. “We want the museum to strive for relevance–whether as an educational resource or a place for the entire family to gather.”

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.

April 22, 2019July 3, 2021

Museum program continues its ‘travels’

Making its way across the nation with stops in California, Minnesota and Utah to name just a few, the American Independence Museum’s Traveling Trunk program recently made its way back from Massachusetts.

“The traveling trunk made our American Revolution unit much more engaging and dynamic,” said Mike Ryan, teacher at Pollard Middle School in Needham, Massachusetts.

Expected to travel more than 25,000 miles throughout the United States in 2019, the Traveling Trunk program is presented by Service Credit Union.

“We believe in the program, because it provides important insight into the formation of our nation,” said Service Credit Union’s Wendy Beswick. “This is hands-on learning at its best.”

Featuring 70+ high quality replica items and colonial history curriculum to engage students of varying ages, the program reflects an emerging focus at the American Independence Museum on creating “an institution without walls.”

“If we cannot get people to the museum, we want to bring it to them,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “Our partnership with Service Credit Union has provided us with the resources to expand the program and the educational branch of our mission.”

Noting he used nearly every object in the trunk in his classroom, Ryan said the program provided him with pedagogical flexibility.

“The copies of the Declaration of Independence were used so that each partnership was able to have their own,” he said. “I only have 4 facsimiles, so it was great that these additions allowed each student to have the document in front of them.”

He said the included uniforms were “fantastic.”

“Students used these throughout our unit and greatly appreciated them,” he added.

According to Beswick, such experiential learning programs are critical today, as many schools struggle with shrinking budgets.

“We are very pleased to be part of the program, which is expanding far beyond what any of us could have expected,” she said. “We believe an appreciation and understanding of American history is very important.”

In addition to continued financial support from Service Credit Union, the Traveling Trunk program was made possible with initial seed funding from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation.

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.

April 19, 2019July 3, 2021

Exeter Hospital to present Revolutionary Story Time in 2019

For the third consecutive year, Exeter Hospital will present Revolutionary Story Time! at the American Independence Museum on the first Thursday of each month through December.

Designed to entertain kids, ages 3 to 5, and their families, the free series reflects both nonprofit organization’s belief in the importance of community.

“We see our role in a much broader sense than just as a museum,” said Victoria Su, who developed and manages the program. “We want to serve as an anchor point in the community, a place where families can gather, have fun and spend quality time together…Story Time is part of our mission to create that sense of community.”

For Jenn McGowan of Exeter Hospital, the museum’s program is part of a larger puzzle, one in which many pieces can be made to fit.

“A healthy, strong community involves many stakeholders, each working together for a greater good, a shared vision,” she said. “The museum shares in our vision, and we believe in their programming and their leadership.”

On the first Thursday of each month 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.

“This is a fun free program and takes place right across from Swasey Parkway, so we hope families join us and visit Exeter for the entire afternoon,” added Su. “This is a great town for families.”

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.

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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