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.

Kids welcome at Exeter Hospital’s Revolutionary Story Time!

Presented by Exeter Hospital, Revolutionary Story Time! turns Folsom Tavern at the American Independence Museum into a place for kids, ages 3 to 5, the first Thursday of each month, April through December.

At the next Revolutionary Story Time! on Thursday, August 1 from 2 to 4 pm, museum Executive Director Emma Bray said families and caregivers can expect everything from story-telling to live music.

“We have a colonial re-enactor who really engages with the kids,” she said. “It’s a lot of fun.”

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.

“Kids and families can play outside on our lawn, too,” added Bray. “This is a great way to spend the afternoon and then walk right over to the Farmers’ Market afterwards on Swasey Parkway.”

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. 

Children, Families the Focus in July at American Independence Museum

In July, children and families are a big focus at the American Independence Museum in Exeter.

On Tuesday, July 2, The Provident Bank is sponsoring free admission for residents of any age from SAU 16, which includes Brentwood, East Kingston, Exeter, Kensington, Newfields, and Stratham. On Saturday, July 6, free admission will also be made available to SAU 16 residents, courtesy of Kennebunk Savings.

“Both banks are also sponsoring the free admission for SAU 16 residents on the first Tuesday and Saturday in August, respectively,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “This is a wonderful opportunity for local residents to see first hand the improvements we have made within our museum as well as our new exhibits.”

Presented by Exeter Hospital, a special patriotic sing-along edition of Revolutionary Story Time! takes place on Thursday, July 4 from 11am to 1 pm.  At this event, families and guests of all ages are invited to Folsom Tavern to celebrate Independence Day with song led by a colonial reenactor, patriotic cake, and colonial games. The event is free and part of a year long series, which takes place on the first Thursday of each month through December.

The largest event annually hosted by the museum, the American Independence Festival takes place on Saturday, July 13 and is expected to attract thousands. Presented by Newburyport Bank, the event features everything from traditional craft demonstrations and battle re-enactments to a beer garden, live music, games, local food, art and craft marketplace, and more.  

The Festival also marks the conclusion of the museum’s Revolutionary Kids Camp, which begins Tuesday, July 9. In this full-day living history experience, youth (ages 9 – 12) immerse themselves in the past and assume the role of a real 18th century Exeter resident, complete with colonial clothing.  At the Festival, youth show off what they have learned in camp, which concludes Friday, July 12.

“It’s a busy month for us and one in which I hope we see many new faces,” added Bray.  “We want people to see the museum as ‘their’ space.”

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

Kids discover history at American Independence Museum

On any given day in the summer, the American Independence Museum in Exeter welcomes dozens of visitors, including youth who participate in lively engaging programs with costumed re-enactors.

“Our Revolutionary Kids Summer Camp provides kids with a fun, interactive learning experience,” said Education Manager Abigail Pietrantonio. “It’s fun for kids to interact with colonial re-enactors and experience life as an 18th century resident of Exeter. It is a unique program.”

It is a program that also resonates with parents, including Mary Ann Cappiello, whose daughter Ella participated in the program for two years before volunteering her time for the past two years.

“She came to camp because she loved all the hands-on learning experiences and wearing 18th century clothing, but it also definitely helped deepen her knowledge and her love of history,” she said.

This love of history, she said, is crucial given the marginalization of social studies education at the elementary level.

“I want to do something about that,” said Cappiello, who noted she herself has become involved in the museum by serving on its education committee.

“[It] connects me with other local educators who care about history and want to help the museum make a difference in the lives of community members and visitors from all over the world,” she added. 

Expressing excitement at the museum’s summer camp in 2019, Pietrantonio said she hopes Ella’s experience can entice others between the ages of 9 and 11.

“It’s a fun program that enables kids to step back in time and really use their imaginations,” she said. 
The American Independence Museum features more than 3,000 items in its collection, including one of only 26 surviving copies of the Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration of Independence. 

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 also 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.

American Independence Museum to Host Revolutionary Story Time! Series

On March 7, the American Independence Museum in Exeter will host the 2019 season’s first Revolutionary Story Time!, which will take place on the first Thursday of each month through December. 

Designed for kids, ages 3 to 5, the program features books, stories, crafts, and music in the first 30 minutes. Afterwards, parent-supervised playtime includes crafts, imaginary play, colonial games, and period dress-up.

Grandmother and Newburyport, MA resident Elizabeth Hallett said she “loves” to bring her grandson David to Revolutionary Story Time!. 

“I bring my grandson so that he will become excited to learn more about the history of our country,” she said. “Being able to play on the hearth and try on historic clothing afterwards, or play with some old fashioned toys is a big bonus. It is all of these things that make it so worthwhile to keep returning.” 

The program takes place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Folsom Tavern, 164 Water Street in Exeter, NH. 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. 

“If I could, I would encourage every parent, grandparent, and caregiver to attend with the child or children in their care to gain knowledge of and appreciation for the people and the history that made our country,” added Hallett. 

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. 

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.

Beer, stories, talks, workshops and more at American Independence Museum in September

At the American Independence Museum in Exeter, September may be its busiest month with programs for all ages.

Beer for History
Craft beer will take center stage on Thursday, September 20 with Neighborhood Beer Co. at the first of four events in Beer for History, presented by Hoefle Phoenix Gormley & Roberts, P.A. Attorneys at Law. Featuring games, entertainment, light snacks, Lexie’s Burger Bus, and more, each Beer for History takes place at Folsom Tavern, a restored historic tavern built in 1775 that once welcomed George Washington for “a collation.”

Revolutionary Story Time!
Presented by Exeter Hospital, the next Revolutionary Story Time! takes place on Thursday, September 6. Designed for children, ages 3 to 5, the program is free and encourages families “to stay and play” afterwards in the tavern and on museum grounds, which is comprised of one landscaped, grassy acre.

Folsom Tavern

Tavern Talk
On Thursday, September 27, the museum will host “The American Precedents: Examining George Washington’s Precedents in the Modern Presidency,” presented by People’s United Bank. At this evening talk, Saint Anselm College students Sarah Hummel (2019) and Matthew Solomon (2020) will discuss the exhibit they designed at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics, entitled “The American Precedents.”

Genealogy Workshop
Held in partnership with New England Historic Genealogical Society and sponsored by the William W. Treat Foundation, the third genealogy workshop series takes place on Saturday, September 22. In this workshop, “Migration Patterns in America,” attendees will learn about the dominant “push-pull” forces for migration, major colonial migration routes and more. The role of the railroads in migration will receive special attention.

About the American Independence Museum
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.

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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