In honor of Constitution Week, Sept. 17 – Sept. 24, the American Independence Museum (AIM) will host a free special program on Wednesday, September 18 for the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and museum members.
Led by an AIM docent, the program will reveal insights into the life of Nicholas Gilman, Exeter resident and signer of the U.S. Constitution, “We will also explore the impact of New Hampshire on the Constitution itself,” said interim Executive Director Jen Carr.
For Renay Allen, vice regent of the Exeter Chapter of the DAR, the opportunity to learn more about the Gilman family and the Constitution is “exciting.” “It’s amazing the kind of history we have right here in Exeter,” she said. “I’m thankful AIM has developed this program for us and their members.”
The day’s festivities begin at 10:00 a.m. for AIM members followed by a presentation at 12 noon for DAR members. “We’ll discuss things you won’t find in our general tours,” added Carr.
Both groups will also have the chance to explore AIM’s new digital exhibits, which are located throughout the Ladd-Gilman House (1721). These exhibits are accessed by devices that feature QR codes. When scanned, these QR codes (virtually) send visitors to digital exhibits that reveal insights into various parts of the Ladd-Gilman House and Folsom Tavern (1775).
“These devices open up parts of the museum that may be challenging for some to access,” explained Carr. “These digital exhibits are an important part of our ongoing efforts to increase access to our collections.”
Home to 3,000 historic artifacts, including an original copy of the Dunlap Broadside (Declaration of Independence), AIM develops programs, events, and exhibits that engage people of all ages in the ongoing struggle for freedom and self-governance. AIM is sponsored in part by The Society Of The Cincinnati In The State Of New Hampshire, Service Credit Union, New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, and William W. Treat Foundation.
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’.