Former President of the AIM Board of Governors, Ozzie Ayscue recently donated $4,000 to hardwire AIM’s two historic structures for Wi-Fi, which is necessary for the digital exhibits to function. His initial $10,000 donation enabled AIM to purchase the digital exhibit technology.
“As soon as I heard about this, I just thought it was going to create so many possibilities,” said Ayscue. “The system brings this museum’s spectacular assets to life. Anyone can be engaged to ponder the big questions of the American Revolution and dig further into their areas of personal interest.”
Created and distributed by 42 Kites, the digital exhibit technology is accessed by devices that feature QR codes. When scanned, these QR codes (virtually) send visitors to digital exhibits that, in the case of AIM, will provide visitors with access to all parts of the museum’s historic structures, Ladd-Gilman House (1721) and Folsom Tavern (1775).
“These devices help make the historically inaccessible second-floor spaces in both AIM structures more reachable for everyone,” she explained. “These devices are a part of our commitment to removing barriers to our museum and increasing accessibility…Ozzie’s gift will allow us to take the final steps to becoming a museum without walls.”
The digital exhibits will also allow AIM members and those from outside the region (and state) remotely access some exhibits. However, a majority of digital exhibits will only be available (to explore) on site.
According to Ayscue, his gifts underscore his belief that AIM will continue to build on its mission of inclusivity, embodied in its multi-year We Are One campaign. Launched in 2023, We Are One informs AIM programs, events, and exhibits. Its premise is that all voices and all perspectives matter, an ideal made implicit with the signing of the United States Constitution on September 17, 1787.
“We want everyone to be able to join the discussion,” he added.
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’.