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33rd American Independence Festival

Two young children sit on the grass in front of two reenactors demonstrating 18th century tailoring

Date: July 15, 2023
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: American Independence Museum, 1 Governors Lane., Exeter, NH
Cost: FREE!

Celebrate the anniversary of the arrival of the Declaration of Independence to New Hampshire on July 16th, 1776 at the 33rd American Independence Festival on Saturday July 15th in downtown Exeter, NH. Free Admission!

On the grounds of the American Independence Museum, visitors can experience life in colonial New Hampshire and celebrate the founding of the United States. 

Presenting Sponsor

About American Independence Museum

Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.

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American Independence Museum Launches “We Are One”

Reflecting its organizational emphasis on inclusivity and diversity, the American Independence Museum (AIM) has launched We Are One, a concept that will serve as its guiding principle for the next three years.

“As we prepare for the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, We Are One will help guide how we develop programs, events, and exhibits, and how we engage with visitors,” said Jennifer Carr, executive director.

Alena Shellenbean, AIM events and marketing manager, said the very formation of the United States serves as a testament to the rationale behind We Are One. “When the Declaration of Independence was written, a lot of people thought it would fail because each colony, each would-be state, was so different,” she said. “The concern was that they might not agree on anything, let alone how to be a country.”

In the early years of the Republic, an etching printed on flyers—the 18th century version of a logo—was developed to help signify the founders’ hope for a new United States. Revealing each of the original 13 colonies as a circle interlocked with one another, the image serves as the basis for AIM’s We Are One logo.

“We have many voices, many perspectives, and they all matter, which I think our logo captures,” remarked Carr. “As we move toward the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation, We Are One reminds us what is possible when we unite during times of division.”

Carr said this concept inspired the 2nd NH Regiment during the American Revolution. “They used this symbol on their regimental flag,” she said.

According to Carr, We Are One will find expression in four initiatives, which include Bring History to Life, Educate Children & Youth, Engage Older Adults, and Build Community. “Our programs, events, and exhibits all fall within one of these initiatives, which explain quite clearly our intentions,” explained Carr. “We believe these initiatives will resonate with people of all ages and from diverse backgrounds.”

In looking ahead, Shellenbean said she hopes that “our differences as a nation” could be looked upon as a strength rather than a weakness. “We’ve always been a country full of people with big ideas, sometimes wildly different ideas, which I think makes us stronger,” she said. “We Are One is an idea that can hold us together and make our differences into a strength.”

Opening Day 2023

American Independence Museum sign with two flag on either side, the Society of the Cincinnati Flag and an Open Flag

Date: May 3, 2023
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: American Independence Museum,
1 Governors Lane, Exeter, NH

American Independence Museum opens for the season! Guided or self-guided tours take visitors through a docent-led exploration of important moments in our nation’s history as seen through the lens of New Hampshire and untold stories from voices beyond the battlefield.

Tours are available of two buidlings. the Ladd-Gilman house, built in 1721 as a private residence and now serves as a history museum. Throughout our two floors of exhibits you will find hundreds of objects that tell the story of New Hampshire’s role in the fight for Independence. In The Folsom Tavern, tours examine the place taverns held in colonial and revolutionary history and the different experiences people had in taverns. This is an immersive, sensory-friendly tour and is recommended for all ages.

About American Independence Museum

Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.

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American Independence Museum to Explore “What it Means to be an American”

Folsom Tavern

On Tuesday, March 21, 6:30 p.m., at Folsom Tavern in Exeter, Joshua Tepley will facilitate “What Does it Mean to be an American?” as part of Open Questions, presented by New Hampshire Humanities. A series of thought-provoking community conversations, Open Questions explores essential questions about meaning and life that are important to Granite Staters.

“We are thrilled to host this event in our historic Folsom Tavern at no cost,” said AIM Executive Director Jennifer Carr. “As a society, it is crucial we create space for open, thoughtful dialogue, so this is the kind of conversation we want to take place on our campus.”

According to Carr, such open-dialogue conversations take on special meaning at Folsom Tavern, which was built in 1775. “Taverns like Folsom Tavern were the hub of colonial society and where debates and conversations took place that often found their way into politics,” she added. “This discussion at our tavern is unique because it provides historical context to the need for respectful discussions.”

Each program in Open Questions is facilitated by philosophy professors who explore essential questions about meaning and life. With research interests in free will, personal identity, ontology (the study of being), and the intersection between philosophy and science fiction, Tepley is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Philosophy Department at Saint Anselm College. He received his B.A. in Philosophy from Bucknell University (2004) and his Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Notre Dame (2013).

Part of AIM’s ongoing Tavern Talk series, “What Does it Mean to be an American?” takes place on Tuesday, March 21, 6:30 p.m., at Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH. Discussions in AIM’s Tavern Talk series are open-dialogue, moderated discussions facilitated by various experts and practitioners from diverse backgrounds. Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required. 

Event Details

Date: March 21, 2023
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH
Cost: FREE
Capacity: 30

Open Questions is a series of thought-provoking community conversations presented by New Hampshire Humanities. This series explores essential questions about meaning and life that are important to Granite Staters. Each program is facilitated by philosophy professors who will explore essential questions about meaning and life. Preregistration is highly encouraged.

About Joshua Tepley

Dr. Joshua Tepley is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Philosophy Department at Saint Anselm College, where he has taught for the last decade. He received his B.A. in Philosophy from Bucknell University (2004) and his Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Notre Dame (2013). His research interests include free will, personal identity, ontology (the study of being), and the intersection between philosophy and science fiction.This program is made possible by a grant from New Hampshire Humanities. Learn more at www.nhhumanities.org.

About the American Independence Museum

Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.

Open Questions: What Does it Mean to be an American?

Joshua Tepley to facilitate Open Questions: What Does it Mean to be an American?

Date: March 21, 2023
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH
Cost: FREE
Capacity: 30

Open Questions is a series of thought-provoking community conversations presented by New Hampshire Humanities. This series explores essential questions about meaning and life that are important to Granite Staters. Each program is facilitated by philosophy professors who will explore essential questions about meaning and life. Preregistration is highly encouraged.

About Joshua Tepley

Dr. Joshua Tepley is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Philosophy Department at Saint Anselm College, where he has taught for the last decade. He received his B.A. in Philosophy from Bucknell University (2004) and his Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Notre Dame (2013). His research interests include free will, personal identity, ontology (the study of being), and the intersection between philosophy and science fiction.This program is made possible by a grant from New Hampshire Humanities. Learn more at www.nhhumanities.org.

About American Independence Museum

Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.

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Alena Shellenbean Joins American Independence Museum Staff

Alena Shellenbean in historical costume

In 2023, the American Independence Museum (AIM) is enhancing its program and event offerings to attract and engage a wider audience, an effort exemplified in recently hiring Alena Shellenbean as Events and Marketing Manager. “One of my goals is to bring AIM to so many more folks that would enjoy it,” she said.

Noting she plans to develop “a robust marketing program,” Shellenbean said her primary focus will be on how to enhance AIM’s events. “I want to help create events that ask important questions and bring to life important stories about the formation of our country.”

AIM’s biggest event is its American Independence Festival, which happens this year on Saturday, July 15. “Exeter is such an amazing community. I look forward to all the partnerships that make the Festival a town-wide celebration.”

One of these partnerships is with the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts, which presents the Festival’s Traditional Artisan Village. Held on AIM grounds with more than a dozen Traditional Artisans and Folklife Reenactors, the Village is an element of the Festival with which Shellenbean is particularly acquainted.

“My prior event experience was running events at Strawbery Banke Museum for 7 years and being production manager and stage manager at various Renaissance Faires for the past 15 years,” she explained.

Shellenbean also boasts 25 years experience in reenacting and living history experience herself. “I’ve been dressing in the clothes, performing the skills, and teaching visitors about life in various eras of history,” she said.

She also operates Tentsmiths, makers of historical canvas tents, with her partner. “I have spent the last three years bringing the business into the 21st century,” said Shellenbean, who bought Tentsmiths 3 years ago. “I created an e-commerce website so customers can order online, set up manufacturing software to reduce error, and updated all social media.”

Citing her partner will continue to run the business now that she is back in the “museum world,” Shellenbean expressed enthusiasm for her role at AIM. “I am excited to be here with the opportunity to use all my skills at such a worthy institution,” she said.

About the American Independence Museum

Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.

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Massachusetts Society of the Cincinnati Makes Investment in Inclusive History at the American Independence Museum

American Independence Museum Staff looking at Indigenous artifacts in collection

In 2023, the American Independence Museum will embark on an ambitious project that will result in permanent new exhibits that present diverse and unexpected perspectives of the Revolutionary War and Colonial life. The project is made possible by a grant from the Massachusetts Society of the Cincinnati, which has made substantial investments in the Museum over the years.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of Massachusetts Society of the Cincinnati, as their continued support and friendship enables us to continue to meet our mission,” said Museum Executive Director Jennifer Carr.The Museum’s mission is intricately connected with that of the Massachusetts Society of the Cincinnati, which is one of 14 chapters of The Society of the Cincinnati. The nation’s oldest patriotic organization, The Society was founded in 1783 by officers of the Continental Army and their French counterparts who served together in the American Revolution. Its mission is to promote knowledge and appreciation of the achievement of American independence and foster fellowship among its members.

“Our museum and our collection is owned by the New Hampshire Society of the Cincinnati, which was founded in our very own Folsom Tavern in 1783,” explained Carr. “It’s wonderful and unique that we have such a terrific partnership with another chapter.”

In 2023, though, this partnership will significantly deepen in a project she described as “transformational.” “This grant will fund substantial research into our collection and help us expand it through the acquisition of new items,” she said.

The goal of the grant-funded project is to create exhibits that highlight underrepresented voices in Revolutionary history, including those of women, Indigenous Americans, free Black population, enslaved persons, and soldiers. It is not just the end product(s) of the grant that excite Carr, but also its methodology.

“The grant enables us to hire a professional researcher to help lead the project,” she explained. “This researcher will be from an underrepresented group, which we feel is appropriate given our intent to create more inclusive stories and exhibits in the museum.”
According to Carr, the Museum’s focus on inclusive storytelling has already begun. As examples, she cited some of the Indigenous artifacts in exhibits already on display in the museum uncovered during an archaeological dig in 2019. These items range from a 2,700 year-old projectile point (arrowhead) to stone flakes created as a result of knapping (the product of producing stone weapons) and pieces of Indigenous pottery.

“Many of these items are ‘pre-contact’ and allow us to acknowledge the Indigenous presence on the land and share their history with visitors from across the world,” said Carr.

Regarding next steps in the project, Carr said they plan to hire an external researcher sometime by mid March. Her hope is that the project can begin in earnest by April. “We are excited to take this big step forward and thankful to have the continued support of the Massachusetts Society of the Cincinnati behind us every step of the way,” she said.

About the American Independence Museum

Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.

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New Staff Highlight 2023 at American Independence Museum

Rebecca Seely

Founded in 1991, the American Independence Museum in Exeter has become known for its expertise in Revolutionary history education and historic preservation, core strengths enhanced by the recent addition of Rebeccah Seely as Facilities Manager. “I am honored to join the Museum’s exceptional team and excited for the opportunity to contribute to the continued preservation of this American treasure,” said Seely.

Home to a world-class collection of 3,000 historic artifacts, the American Independence Museum features the Ladd-Gilman House (c. 1721) and Folsom Tavern (c. 1775).

Ladd Gilman House

Folsom Tavern

Built in 1721, the Ladd-Gilman House is a National Historic Landmark property that was home to Nicholas Gilman, Jr., a signer of the Constitution. The home also served as Governor’s mansion when Nicholas’ brother, John Taylor Gilman, was Governor of New Hampshire. Their father—Nicholas Gilman, Sr.—served as the state’s first Treasurer.

Folsom Tavern was built in 1775 by Samuel Folsom and visited by George Washington in 1789. The tavern was also the site of the formation of the New Hampshire chapter of the Society of the Cincinnati in 1783. The nation’s oldest patriotic organization, the Society was founded by officers of the Continental Army and their French counterparts who served together in the American Revolution.

As for what drew her to the American Independence Museum, Seely said her interest in Revolutionary history was stoked at an early age. “I grew up in Annapolis, Maryland, which was a significant 18th century town during the American Revolution where George Washington resigned his Commission and Lafayette visited frequently,” she explained. “I also went to a school built on the property shared with the home of John Carroll of Carrollton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.”

Previous to joining the American Independence Museum, Seely’s prior preservation experience included managing the complete restoration of her 1868 Victorian Italianate house in Metuchen, New Jersey. “In the early 20th century, it was home to New England author Mary Wilkins Freeman, and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2019,” she said.

While a resident of Metuchen, Seely served on the Metuchen Historic Preservation Committee for 10 years. Working with county grants, the Committee identified historically significant neighborhoods and successfully nominated the town’s first Historic District to the National Register.

About the American Independence Museum

Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.

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American Independence Museum to Host Holiday Tavern Open House

Two tables decorated for a winter holiday event.

On Thursday, December 1 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the American Independence Museum will host Holiday Tavern Open House at Folsom Tavern (c. 1775). Presented by Kennebunk Savings, the free event will feature light refreshments, make and take crafts, and a silent auction with proceeds to benefit the museum’s programs and tour experiences.

“This is a chance for people new and familiar to experience the Tavern, which will be beautifully decorated for the holidays,” said Jennifer Carr, executive director. “We look forward to concluding a terrific 2022 season with this fun and festive event.”

Highlights from the 2022 season included the continued travels of the museum’s Traveling Trunk program, which provides students across the nation and older adults with insights into the Revolutionary War and its connection to the present. “The program continues to expand and engage people of all ages,” said the museum’s Sarah Jaworski, who manages the program.

The museum also held its annual American Independence Festival in July, which in recent years has evolved to include a theme of inclusivity and diversity of historical perspectives. “History is not static nor can it be told from just one perspective,” explained Carr, who said 2023 will feature exhibits with “more inclusive storylines.” “We have a responsibility to interpret history in broad contexts that invite multiple perspectives.”

In commenting on Holiday Tavern Open House, Carr said she hopes it serves as an open invitation to the community. “This is a fun, low-key event where anyone can come and learn more about what we offer,” she said.

Holiday Tavern Open House takes place from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 1 at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter. Attendance is free.

About the American Independence Museum

Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.

Holiday Tavern Open House

Two tables decorated for a winter holiday event.

Date: Thursday, December 1
Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Location: Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St.
Cost: Free

Join us as we ring in the season, as Folsom Tavern will be decorated for the season and open to the public.

Light refreshments will be served, a make and take craft will be available, and a silent auction will be held. Items include a private behind the scenes tour of the Ladd-Gilman House, an American Girl Teas in the Tavern, a private party in the Tavern as well as curated gifts. Everyone is welcome for this family-friendly, festive event.

Holiday Tavern Open House is presented by:

About American Independence Museum

Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.

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