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Last Beer for History call this week

On Thursday, October 12, the American Independence Museum will host its last Beer for History event in 2017 at Folsom Tavern on Water Street in Exeter.

Sponsored by Hoefle Phoenix Gormley & Roberts, P.A. Attorneys at Law, the event represents an ambitious collaboration between the museum and many brewers since the series began in 2016.

“Hoefle Phoenix Gormley & Roberts made this possible with financial support and their belief in our mission, while brewers have donated beer, time and resources—it’s a wonderful collaboration,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray.

Some of the brewers that have been involved in Beer for History include Neighborhood Beer Co., 7th Settlement Brewery, Moat Mountain Brewing Co., and D.L. Geary Brewing Co. At this last Beer for History, Earth Eagle Brewings from Portsmouth will be featured.

“Brewers have a passion for history and honoring their roots,” noted Bray. “Beer and history are interconnected.”

In addition to craft beer, attendees can enjoy colonial games, music and light snacks in a restored tavern that was built in 1775.

“Folsom Tavern was at the very heart of Exeter’s political and community scene in the 1770’s,” said Bray. “This is a chance to experience the place in a way that directly connects people with America’s colonial past.

Held at the museum’s Folsom Tavern at 164 Water Street in Exeter, Beer for History will take place on Thursday, October 12 from 6 pm to 8 pm with tickets priced at $20 for nonmembers and $15 for members. Admission includes beer, hors d’oeuvres, games, and more. Families are welcome.

Tickets are available online and at the door. To buy tickets or learn more, visit https://www.independencemuseum.org/beer-for-history.

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American Independence Museum to help people write their family history

On Saturday, October 14, the American Independence Museum will host a genealogy workshop entitled, “Writing Your Family History: Taking the First Step.”

The workshop will be presented Penny Stratton, a veteran of the book publishing industry who retired as publications director of the New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS) in June of 2016. Among the more than 65 titles she managed at NEHGS are The Great Migration Directory, Genealogist’s Handbook for New England Research, and the award-winning Descendants of Judge John Lowell of Newburyport, Massachusetts.

At “Writing Your Family History: Taking the First Step,” Stratton will assist individuals interested in tracing their roots or those who have already begun a project. The informative presentation will be followed by time for questions, advice, and expert support.

The workshop will take place on Saturday, October 14 from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm. The fee is $15 for members and $20 for non-members. Attendees are encouraged to bring their projects and laptops with them, as workshop time will be provided at the end of the session.

Founded in 1991, the nonprofit American Independence Museum features living history exhibits and a vast collection, including one of 26 surviving copies of the Declaration of Independence, two rare drafts of the U.S. Constitution, and handwritten letters by General George Washington. One of the museum’s areas of focus include shedding light on the Folsom, Ladd and Gilman families, each of whom played leading roles in Exeter and New Hampshire colonial history.

The Museum is owned by the Society of the Cincinnati in the State of New Hampshire, the nation’s oldest veterans’ organization that traces its membership lineage to the Revolutionary War.

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Earth Eagle Brewings to pour at next Beer for History

On Thursday, October 12 at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern, the last Beer for History in 2017 will take place with Portsmouth-based Earth Eagle Brewings as the featured brewer. Combining craft brews and colonial games the second annual seasonal event series seeks to inspire a new generation of lovers of history.

“We want to engage people in what we do here and show that history can be fun” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “I think we have done that with Beer for History, which has attracted people of all ages, including some younger folks—Folsom Tavern is a beautiful and historic backdrop for any event.”

Since the first Beer for History took place in May of 2016, the series has been sponsored by Hoefle Phoenix Gormley & Roberts, P.A. Attorneys at Law.

“They appreciate the history of the tavern and our museum,” she said. “They want to see downtown Exeter thrive—and with more art, music and culinary options all within a 5-minute walk of our property, we believe we are part of an emerging cultural scene here.”

Sue Desjardins, president of the Board of Governors at the museum, referred to their Folsom Tavern as one of the town’s “original gathering places.” She cited George Washington’s stop at the Tavern in the late 1700’s as one example of Exeter’s rich history.

“The fact that we have one of the original gathering places right here in Exeter, which today serves beer brewed by our very generous local craft beer makers—well, that’s pretty special,” she said.

Expressing appreciation for the continued support of Hoefle Phoenix Gormley & Roberts, P.A. Attorneys at Law, Bray said she hopes this last Beer for History encourages newcomers.

“This is a warm and welcoming place—we want to share our shared history with everyone while at the same time foster meaningful partnerships with local businesses,” she said. “This is your last chance to check out Beer for History this year.”

Held at the museum’s Folsom Tavern at 164 Water Street in Exeter, Beer for History will take place on Thursday, October 12 from 6 pm to 8 pm with tickets priced at $20 for nonmembers and $15 for members. Admission includes beer, hors d’oeuvres, games, and more. Families are welcome.

Tickets are available online and at the door.

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Museum partner’s roots run deep in Exeter

While the specific dollar amount of a corporation’s philanthropic investment is often highlighted in the media, what is often lost are the connections between supporters and a nonprofit institution.
“Many of our business partners truly care about the museum and its mission,” said Emma Bray, executive director at the American Independence Museum in Exeter. “They contribute financially, but the most meaningful aspect is the partnership itself. They attend events, they talk about us, they engage others in our work—every nonprofit benefits tremendously from such involvement.”
A longtime supporter of the museum, Donna Buxton, owner of Buxton Oil and Buxton Water, said she “loves the museum.” She referred to it as “the hidden gem of New Hampshire.”
“People don’t know about this place, but we are lucky to have it right here in Exeter,” she said. “There is so much history throughout New Hampshire and so much beauty—and it all starts right here in Exeter.”
Founded in 1991, the American Independence Museum features Folsom Tavern and the Ladd-Gilman House, which served as NH’s State Treasury and the Governor’s Mansion in the late 1700s and early 1800s. 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.
For Buxton, her personal concern for the museum has led to years’ worth of volunteering, which in turn has encouraged her kids to become involved.
“My daughter worked inside the Ladd-Gilman House at the American Independence Festival this summer,” she said. “She is going to college to become a police officer and she learned about the Purple Heart here—she was amazed that we had something like that at the museum.”
Expressing gratitude at the longstanding support provided by Buxton through the years, Bray said many visitors are also surprised at the museum’s collection and role in NH history.
“The Ladd-Gilman House was home to the state’s first governor, George Washington visited our Folsom Tavern, Exeter itself served a pivotal role during the Revolutionary War—our collection tells this story,” she said.
In expressing her excitement about the museum, Buxton said she believes the Seacoast—and Exeter in particular—is a region poised for growth.
“You have history here and natural beauty,” she remarked. “It’s also safe. You can have your kids ride their bikes into downtown Exeter and get an ice cream cone and feel comfortable—that’s saying a lot.”
 
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Busy event season continues at American Independence Museum

History can be fun and relevant, which is an idea that underscores several upcoming events at the American Independence Museum.

On Wednesday, September 27, the museum will host its popular Homeschool program. Throughout the day, students will learn from trained re-enactors who will provide glimpses into various facets of everyday colonial life. The cost is $20.00 per family (includes admission to museum). Session 1 takes place from 10 am to 11:30 am with Session 2 from 12:30 pm to 2 pm. Contact Education Manager Abigail Pietrantonio at (603) 772-2622 for more information.

Other upcoming events in October include a Genealogy Workshop, Beer for History sponsored by Hoefle Phoenix Gormley & Roberts, P.A. Attorneys at Law, and Revolutionary Story Time.

“We have a lot of fun and engaging events for all ages,” noted museum Executive Director Emma Bray. “We continue to look for ways to interest and excite people.”

About the American Independence Museum
Founded in 1991, the American Independence Museum is located in Exeter, which served as New Hampshire’s capital during the Revolutionary War. 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 and distinguishes itself with school programs and events that make history fun and relevant.

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Museum and Business Partners work together to achieve community, business goals

In 2016, the American Independence Museum implemented a new program in which corporate “sponsors” were viewed more as “partners,” which has since helped to reshape how staff engage with both the private and public sector.

“As a nonprofit, it is important we build relationships with an eye toward strengthening the fabric of the community,” said museum Executive Director Emma Bray.

Since implementing what has become known as the “Business Partner Program,” the museum has developed more than two-dozen partnerships. In some cases, the museum brings programming to partners, such as at RiverWoods Exeter in which staff have brought the Traveling Trunk to residents. In other partnerships, corporate entities make an investment to support program development, collections care, or events like the American Independence Festival.

In addition to RiverWoods Exeter, other major committed partners in 2017 include Service Credit Union, GEICO Local Office, Hoefle Phoenix Gormley & Roberts, P.A. Attorneys at Law, Ruffner Real Estate, Optima Bank & Trust, People’s United Bank, Buxton Oil and Buxton Water, Foy Insurance, and Chinburg Properties.

“All of these partnerships are critical to our mission to educate and inspire people of all ages,” added Bray. “By working together, we can positively impact the greater Exeter community, which is thriving and poised for sustained growth.”

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Time for stories and play at the American Independence Museum

This past spring, the American Independence Museum in Exeter offered its first program for preschool age children with Revolutionary Story Time.

Housed in the museum’s 1775 Folsom Tavern, the program has recently been expanded to include 90 additional 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-inspired music.

“We want kids and their parents and caregivers to have fun and enjoy our beautiful property in downtown Exeter,” said the museum’s Victoria Su. “At the same time, kids will learn a little bit of history—learning and literacy can be fun.”

The next Revolutionary Story Time is scheduled for Thursday, September 7 from 9:30 am to 12 pm. Noting the museum is committed to educating visitors of all ages, Executive Director Emma Bray thanked Exeter Hospital for their support of the inaugural series.

“We are very appreciative that Exeter Hospital saw the potential of this program to promote the health and well-being of the community,” she said. “We will continue to look for ways to make our campus as accessible and family-friendly as possible.”

In addition to September 7, others scheduled dates for Revolutionary Story Time include October 5 and November 2.

Reservations are suggested for this program while donations are encouraged, as all proceeds will benefit the museum. Due to the historic nature of the tavern, strollers are not allowed.

For more information, or to register for Revolutionary Story Time, email [email protected].

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Gov. Chris Sununu Visits American Independence Museum

Reprinted from Seacoast Media Online – August 2, 2017

EXETER — Gov. Chris Sununu was given a “welcome home” at the American Independence Museum on Wednesday afternoon, as the museum was once the governor’s mansion in the late 1700s when John Taylor Gilman held the esteemed position.

Sununu and members of the Executive Council received a personal tour of the museum and its grounds from Executive Director Emma Bray. The tour followed a breakfast meeting at the Hampton Beach Pavilion where the American Independence Museum and Society of the Cincinnati of New Hampshire were given proclamations of service from the state. The Society of the Cincinnati of New Hampshire, a nonprofit organization, founded the museum in 1991.

The state proclamation commended the American Independence Museum for “unwavering dedication to sharing New Hampshire’s heritage.”

“We’re really excited to have them all here,” said Bray, who has been the museum’s director since March. “Obviously not only as a small museum to host them, but one that has such a direct connection to the New Hampshire government, to governors, to how our state was founded. That’s such a strong connection. A lot of our mission is connecting the past to the present and that’s exactly what we’re doing for the governor and the Executive Council today, which is wonderful.”

Sununu and the Executive Council paid close attention to the Dunlap Broadside, one of the first-ever published copies of the Declaration of Independence in custody of the museum.

Bray shared the significance of the Gilman family and their deep connection to Granite State government. Sununu and Executive Council members ducked their heads in small doorways passing through each room housing colonial artifacts and documents.

To end the tour, Bray brought the group down to the Folsom Tavern. The museum will host ‘A Beer for History’ events in the tavern beginning this month, with a different local brewer showcased each time.

Sununu, a Newfields resident, said he’d been to the museum before with his children.

“I love it,” he said. “I’m a history nut.” Sununu noted his favorite historical figure is Paul Revere.

“The fact that George Washington ate here, the fact that these buildings are so well-cared for,” he said. “It’s still in incredible shape. You learn about the Treasury, you learn about the people, you can see the actual signatures of these individuals. In New Hampshire, you can really see it, touch it, feel it. In other parts of the country you hear about this stuff and see pictures in books, but here you can physically touch it. To be like, ‘This could very well be the table Washington was eating at,’ and you’re standing right next to it.”

Sununu said destinations of interest in the state like the American Independence Museum are something his administration is trying to highlight.

“We really try to put an emphasis on cultural resources,” Sununu said. “We’ve put our cultural and natural resources together. I’m a big believer in the term we use ‘the creative economy.’ It’s everything from artisans to our natural resources to the culture and rich history we have, and selling that. That’s our asset. That’s one of the things that makes New Hampshire so special. By going out and promoting it and selling it and letting people know things like this are right here in our backyard, it’s just a way to drive tourism, drive dollars into the economy and make an appreciation for what makes the ‘live free or die’ state so special.”

District 3 Executive Councilor Russell Prescott said it was his proposition to bring the traveling summer Executive Council meeting to the American Independence Museum.

“I’m honored to be here,” Prescott said. “It’s a chance to focus on the uniqueness of Exeter.” Prescott, who is a museum ambassador himself, grew up in Exeter, he said.

Prescott thanked Bray for her organization of the tour and taking the time to show the governor and Executive Council members the crucial state resource that is the museum.

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Want to be a Re-Enactor?

Recently, our own Mike Welch provided some tips and analysis on all things related to re-enacting in our Lunch and Learn Series, which is presented by People’s United Bank, who share in our commitment to educating the community and providing enrichment opportunities for all. Thanks to EXTV for filming and sharing this lecture.

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People’s United Bank to present Educational Lecture Series

Education and community are very important to the American Independence Museum, which are values shared by People’s United Bank and the reason behind their recent $1,000 financial contribution to support its Educational Lecture Series.

Comprised of both “Lunch and Learn” and “Evening Tavern” Talks, the series features renowned historians and authors as they discuss unique topics that shed light on lesser known aspects of American history. The next talk in the free series (8/16) is “Collecting John Paul Jones: America’s First Action Hero,” presented by J. Dennis Robinson.

“Everyone knows his name, but few know the true story behind John Paul Jones,” said Events Manager Victoria Su. “What’s interesting is that America first rejected him, but then used his name and image to sell everything from whiskey and cigarettes and women’s clothing. His name and image were even used to recruit for the U.S. Navy.”

In commenting on why People’s United Bank elected to support the remaining lectures in the series, Marc Ouellette, Vice President and Senior Market Manager, cited their intent.

“Education is very important to us,” said Ouellette, who will provide prefatory remarks at each talk. “While our expertise is in financial education, education in its purest sense enhances a community and the lives of its residents…We believe in the museum and its overarching mission to inspire civic engagement.”

Expressing gratitude at the partnership with People’s United Bank, museum Executive Director Emma Bray said the series has been designed to engage people of all ages.

“These are short, informative, engaging talks,” she added. “We are really grateful to work with People’s United Bank to present the rest of this series.”

Remaining talks include: “When Shipping Was King: The Piscataqua Region in Colonial America” on September 21; “Secrets of the American Independence Museum: Collection Close-Up” on November 7; and “Your Most Important Role in a Democracy: Thinking for Yourself” on November 16.

Due to limited space, email [email protected] to pre-register for a seat. There is no cost to attend these lectures. 

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