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Category: For Kids

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American Independence Museum Provides Rewarding Experiences to Youth

Revolutionary history is not just relevant but also fun, according to Kelsey Curley, whose 7-year-old son Bennett participated in a minicamp at the American Independence Museum (AIM) last summer.

“He has already asked a few times about going back this summer,” she said. “He had no background knowledge on any of the topics discussed, but he was very intrigued and engaged from day one.”

For Curley, her interest in AIM’s customized education programs extended to her professional career where she is a fifth-grade teacher in the Kensington school district. “I brought my class here to the museum for a field trip last fall,” she explained. “It was incredible.”

She cited AIM’s Sarah Jaworski, who has directed educational programming at the museum for years, as “equally impressive.” Before bringing her class to AIM, she shadowed Jaworski during the summer session.

“Sarah immediately shared stories and resources,” Curley said. “I learned so much— the impact of the Exeter River in our area, the multiple perspectives of people during colonial times, the history with the Wentworths and other famous people, and so much more.”

For Jaworski, Curley’s experience typifies what she hopes all educators and parents experience at AIM. “We work very hard to create an educational environment here that is fun and inclusive,” she said. 

Curley added that history education is also “incredibly relevant.” “My class was able to connect everything they learned at AIM back to the current day, including money and economics,” she said. “The students also learned how New Hampshire previously had its own currency and treasury, which Sarah was able to show us…It was all so cool, and there truly was so much more to learn, too.”

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.

To learn more about AIM minicamps, click the button below.

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 Host “Multiple Perspectives: Patriots & Loyalists For Homeschoolers”

As part of their Educating Children & Youth initiative, sponsored in part by M&T Bank, the American Independence Museum (AIM) will host “Multiple Perspectives: Patriots & Loyalists For Homeschoolers” on Wednesday, April 17.

Offered at 9:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., the 90-minute session is designed for students, ages 5 to 12. In the session, students will explore varied perspectives on the American struggle for freedom and independence by examining the viewpoints of Patriots, Loyalists, and Neutrals.

All AIM homeschool programs emphasize “exceptional, place-based learning and self-discovery.” “We designed these programs specifically with homeschool families in mind,” said Program Manager Sarah Jaworski, who said families travel for homeschool programming. “We have had people travel here from as far away as two hours for these programs.”

According to Interim Executive Director Robert Levey, PhD, the historic nature of  Folsom Tavern, where the program takes place, lends itself to history education. “You don’t just learn about history at AIM, you can experience it within the very walls of the tavern,” he said. “This is experiential learning at its best.”

“Multiple Perspectives: Patriots & Loyalists For Homeschoolers” takes place at 9:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17. The registration fee is $10 for children (5 to 12) and $5 for adults (13+).

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 Invite Guests to “Spill the Tea”

American Independence Museum Invite Guests to “Spill the Tea”

On Saturday, March 23 at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., the American Independence Museum (AIM) will host “Spilling the Tea: Drinks that Fueled a Revolution” in Folsom Tavern (c. 1775).

“We will also serve ‘liberty teas,’ which were made by colonists from locally sourced herbs during boycotts of British tea,” said AIM’s Sarah Jaworski. “Tea played a symbolic role in the struggle for liberty and independence.”

In addition to beverages, “Spilling the Tea: Drinks that Fueled a Revolution” will feature catered food by For the Love of Food & Drink with whom AIM has previously partnered on several occasions. “It’s a chance to have a fun experience with costumed reenactors, wonderful food, and tea in beautifully restored Folsom Tavern,” added Jaworski. “This will be the first of several similarly-themed events this year that highlight coffee, chocolate, and tea in fun and creative ways.”

Tickets range from $17 to $40 with a seating at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 23.

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 Host Open Play

Kids playing at AIM

This winter and fall, the American Independence Museum (AIM) will host Open Play (AIM) at the Foy Family Library at Folsom Tavern (c. 1775). Made possible by a gift from Jeff and Melissa Foy just before the pandemic, the Foy Family Library features a coloring station, 18th-century play kitchen, dress-up clothes, and a reading nook.

“We are very grateful to Jeff and Melissa, whose vision for this library has now come full circle,” noted Jennifer Carr, AIM Executive Director. “Open Play is the first of many programs this year that will focus on opening up our campus to the public,”

This focus is captured in AIM’s We Are One, a 3-year organizational theme that connects the museum’s programs, events, and exhibits. The central message behind We Are One is that all voices and perspectives matter. “We want people to view AIM as not just a place to learn, but a place to gather and build community with one another,” said Carr.

Beginning Tuesday, February 6, Open Play will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. every Tuesday through April at AIM’s Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter. Open Play is $5 per family.

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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Traditional Arts To Take Center Stage at American Independence Festival

American Independence Festival

On Saturday, July 15, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., visitors will have a chance to experience the Traditional Arts at the American Independence Festival, an immersive experience without cost.

“Thanks to Service CU, admission is free for everyone,” explained Jennifer Carr, executive director of the American Independence Museum (AIM), which organizes the event.

Regarding the role of the Traditional Arts at the Festival, Carr referred to it as a highlight. “We recreate a colonial village right on our grounds with more than a dozen Traditional Artisans, each of whom demonstrate their craft and share stories associated with it,” she said.

Sponsored by NH State Council on the Arts, the Festival’s Traditional Artisan Village will feature shoe-making, coopering, millinery, fiber arts, dancing, tinsmithing, brewing, and more.

According to AIM’s Alena Shellenbean, Festival organizer, the Traditional Arts served as a vehicle for communication, storytelling, and cultural exchange in colonial times. “By presenting Traditional Arts at the Festival through performances and exhibitions, we can promote dialogue, understanding, and respect among diverse groups of people,” she said. “The Traditional Arts reveal aspects of ourselves that are important to cherish and carry forward.”

In addition to the Traditional Artisans Village, the Festival will feature military exhibits, special performances, vendor Marketplace, games, beer garden, food, and more. Presented by Service CU, the 33rd American Independence Festival is sponsored in part by NH State Council on the Arts, New Hampshire Humanities, and Kennebunk Savings.

The Festival takes place on Saturday, July 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in historic Exeter, NH. Admission is free.

Event Details

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 Building Community Through Diversity

Gwendolyn Quezaire-Presutti

As part of its three-year theme, We Are One, the American Independence Museum is developing programs and events focused on ‘building community,’ an initiative that will find diverse expression at this year’s American Independence Festival.

“We are thrilled to welcome two Black women who will present performances that address different perspectives on freedom and independence,” said Jennifer Carr, executive director of the American Independence Museum (AIM).

Actor, dramatist, historian, and storyteller Gwendolyn Quezaire-Presutti will perform as Ona Judge, who was enslaved by George Washington and sought freedom in New Hampshire. Historian and Owner and Executive Artistic Director of Hidden Women, Tammy Denease will portray Elizabeth “Mumbet” Freeman, the first enslaved African American to file and win a freedom suit in Massachusetts.

Both presentations are made possible by financial support from New Hampshire Humanities, which seeks to strengthen communities and foster civic engagement by providing opportunities for lifelong learning, meaningful conversations, and critical thinking.

According to Carr, inclusion of these performances at this year’s Festival, which takes place on Saturday, July 15, reinforce AIM’s intent to inspire visitors “to walk away with questions.” “We encourage everyone to question what they believe about America’s founding and look at history from different perspectives,” she said.

In addition to these performances, this year’s Festival will feature military reenactments, Marketplace, Traditional Artisans Village, games, beer garden, food, and more. “It’s an immersive experience,” said Alena Shellenbean, who organizes the Festival.

This year’s Festival is also free, courtesy of presenting sponsor Service CU. “One of the museum’s biggest initiatives is to build community, which is what we at Service CU also try to do every day,” said Jaime Yates, community relations manager.

Citing AIM’s focus on education, Yates said their sponsorship of the Festival is meant to scale the museum’s educational impact. “Not to mention, Service CU has a rich history here in New England as well,” she added.

Expressing appreciation for the support provided by Service CU, Carr said she hopes Festival visitors leave with a deeper, more nuanced sense of history. “The American Revolution was not just about heroics, but a very human experience,” she said. “What does this human experience mean? I hope visitors explore this question more deeply after they experience our Festival.”

In addition to Service CU and New Hampshire Humanities, other sponsors include Kennebunk Savings and NH State Council on the Arts. Presented by Service CU, the 33rd American Independence Festival takes place on Saturday, July 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in historic Exeter, NH. Admission is free.

Event Details

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 Festival To Feature Free Admission

Featuring first-person reenactors, military reenactments, Traditional Artisans Village, games, beer garden, food, and more, the 33rd American Independence Festival takes place on Saturday, July 15, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

According to Jennifer Carr, executive director of the American Independence Museum (AIM), which organizes and presents the annual Festival, this year’s version may be the biggest yet, courtesy of presenting sponsor Service Credit Union. “Their sponsorship enables us to offer free admission to all ages, which is an incredible opportunity for families in our local region to enjoy a unique, fun-filled day of activities,” she said.

Other sponsors of this year’s Festival include NH State Council on the Arts, which presents a working Traditional Artisans Village. “This is an incredible opportunity to see some talented people demonstrating everything from shoe-making to coopering and basket making to name just a few,” said Alena Shellenbean, AIM events and marketing manager.

This year also marks the return of the Marketplace, which will stretch throughout downtown Exeter. Presented by Kennebunk Savings, the Marketplace will feature local businesses with various items for sale, including housewares, crafts, art, books, jewelry, and collectibles.

“Local organizations will get a chance to tell visitors all about the good work they do throughout the year,” said Shellenbean. “It’s essentially a fair in the center of town—this is going to be a town-wide celebration.”

This celebration is made even more special, as it marks the one time of year in which AIM’s original copy of the Declaration of Independence—known as the Dunlap Broadside—will be on display. The copy is one of just 26 remaining copies known to exist.

“We also recreate the original reading of the Broadside with a descendant of John Taylor Gilman, who read it to residents of Exeter in 1776,” said Carr. “This year’s Festival will be an immersive experience.”

The Festival will also be inclusive, as several reenactors will represent marginalized perspectives, including Tammy Denease as Elizabeth “Mumbet” Freeman and Gwendolyn Quezaire-Presutti as Ona Judge Staines.

“Their participation underscores our three-year theme, We Are One, which reflects our organizational belief that all voices and all perspectives matter,” added Shellenbean. “We look forward to welcoming people from all backgrounds to the Festival. This is your festival as much as it is ours.”

Presented by Service Credit Union, the 33rd American Independence Festival takes place on Saturday, July 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free.

Event Details

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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Kids Invited to ‘MiniCamp’ at AIM This Summer

Kids with Sarah, AIM kids programs

This summer, kids (ages 7 – 11) will have the chance to immerse themselves in hands-on 18th century life at four MiniCamps at the American Independence Museum (AIM).

At each MiniCamp, which takes place on a Thursday in July, campers will dress in colonial clothing, participate in games and activities, create projects, and enjoy colonial-inspired snacks. “These camps are meant to be fun with history mixed in, too,” said AIM’s Sarah Jaworski, who developed the MiniCamps. “We can’t wait to have our first camp.”

Taking place on Thursday, July 6, AIM’s first MiniCamp, Daily Life, will show kids what life was like living in the shadow of the Revolution. In Land Connection on Thursday, July 13, kids will discover why Exeter was settled, how nearby Squamscott River provided jobs and food, and the impact of the changing seasons on food and daily habits.

In Protest and Engagement on Thursday, July 20, kids will learn how ‘The People’ have the power to make change and keep the nation strong. In Taking Sides, Patriot or Loyalist on Thursday, July 27, kids will learn what it meant to be a patriot and loyalist and how the choice to be one or the other was often very complicated.

Event Details

MiniCamps

In We Are One MiniCamps, campers will immerse themselves in hands-on 18th century life, uncovering the stories of the people who helped build our nation and how they can continue to be a part of America’s unfolding story. Each week, campers will dress in colonial clothing, participate in games and activities, create projects and eat a colonial-inspired snack. Enlist for one, two, three, or all four sessions!

Daily Life

Thursday, July 6, 9 am to 3 pm

Everyday people, laborers, farmers, housewives, and even children all were deeply affected by the war and contributed to the cause. Carry out daily chores (hauling water and wood, tending the garden, cooking, etc.) and discover what life was like living in the shadow of the Revolution.

Cost:
Non-members – $55 per day or $195 for all four
Members – $45 per day or $170 for all four

Land Connection

Thursday, July 13, 9 am to 3 pm

Winter, summer, inland or by the coast- where you lived and the season played a role in daily life during the 18th century. Discover why Exeter was settled (the river), how the River provided jobs and food, and how the seasons affected food and daily habits. Work in the garden, prepare seasonal food and preserve food for the winter, forage for seasonal food and learn about how the river served as a highway, transporting goods and people for thousands of years.

Cost:
Non-members – $55 per day or $195 for all four
Members – $45 per day or $170 for all four

Protest and Engagement

Thursday, July 20, 9 am to 3 pm

Everyone living in the colonies was deeply affected by the war and contributed to the cause. Uncover their stories and how it is the People, including us, who have the power to make change and keep our nation strong. Dress in colonial clothes, create your own ‘printing press’, make liberty tea, and learn ways you can make change in your community.

Cost:
Non-members – $55 per day or $195 for all four
Members – $45 per day or $170 for all four

Taking Sides, Patriot or Loyalist

Thursday, July 27, 9 am to 3 pm
Patriot, loyalists, neutral or something else? It wasn’t always easy to know what side to be on. Wrestle with the tricky decision of deciding your stance. Participate in a trial of your neighbors on the opposite side as you, decide if you would have taken the Oath of Allegiance to the Patriotic cause.

Cost:
Non-members – $55 per day or $195 for all four
Members – $45 per day or $170 for all four

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 Host Escape Room Adventure

FOLSOM TAVERN GAMES

On Saturday, May 20 and Friday, June 2, visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to see if they can escape historic Folsom Tavern (1775) at the American Independence Museum (AIM).

At the event, “Trouble in the Tavern: An Escape Room Adventure,” participants must work together to decipher clues and solve puzzles within 30-minutes. “They may even learn a little history,” said AIM’s Alena Shellenbean, who developed the program. “We are excited to welcome people of all ages to our campus for a fun time.”

The event, according to AIM Executive Director Jennifer Carr, is part of the museum’s Building Community initiative within its 3-year theme, We Are One. “This Escape Room Adventure is one response to our rhetorical question, ‘How do we bring the community together?’” she said.

Built in 1775, Folsom Tavern is host to special programs and events. Visitors may also take guided tours of Folsom Tavern, 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., Wednesday – Saturday. On these tours, visitors will learn the unique role of taverns in colonial and revolutionary history.

“Trouble in the Tavern: An Escape Room Adventure” will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 20 and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, June 2. Tickets range from $12 to $25 with 10% off for members.

Event Details

Date: May 20, 2023
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH
Cost: $25 adults, $12 children, Members get a 10% discount
Capacity: 8 people per timeslot

Trouble in the Tavern: An Escape Room Adventure

Heart pumping history is coming to Folsom Tavern. This spring, AIM is introducing a new activity: “Trouble in the Tavern: An Escape Room Adventure.” Participants must work together to decipher clues, solve puzzles, and even learn a little history. Groups of up to 8 people are in for an hour of fun with some  learning thrown in. Preregistration is highly encouraged.

Trouble in the Tavern takes place during TEAM (Town, Exeter, Arts, Music) spring Arts and Music fest. Please enjoy some live music, vendors, and artists, and then spend a delightful time in Historic Folsom Tavern with friends.

Date: June 2, 2023
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH
Cost: $25 adults, $12 children, Members get a 10% discount
Capacity: 8 people per timeslot

Trouble in the Tavern: An Escape Room Adventure

Heart pumping history is coming to Folsom Tavern. This spring, AIM is introducing a new activity: “Trouble in the Tavern: An Escape Room Adventure.” Participants must work together to decipher clues, solve puzzles, and even learn a little history. Groups of up to 8 people are in for an hour of fun with some learning thrown in. Preregistration is highly encouraged.

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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Colonial Reenactors, Traditional Artisans, and Beer Garden Highlight American Independence Festival

Line of individuals dressed in knee breeches, shirts, and tricorn hats typical to the 18th century play on the drums.

Featuring Colonial reenactors, Traditional Artisans Village, games, and Beer Garden next to an historic tavern (c. 1775), the American Independence Festival on Saturday, July 16 is expected to attract 1,000+ from across New England.

According to Jennifer Carr, interim Executive Director of the American Independence Museum, which presents the annual festival on its downtown Exeter, NH campus, its continued popularity and relevance stems from its unique subject matter. “There is a lot of curiosity about our nation’s formative years,” she said. “This event not only presents folklife from this time period, but interprets it through demonstrations by professional traditional artisans who practice colonial ways of creating things that shed light on our past and present.”

Within the Village, artisans demonstrate everything from ropemaking, spinning, coopering, and millinery, to tinsmithing and pottery, while others play instruments, including the clavichord, dulcimer, and harpsichord. Aside from the Village, presented by New Hampshire State Council of the Arts, visitors can tour the Ladd-Gilman House (c. 1721) within which an original copy of the Declaration of Independence may be viewed.

“We recreate the reading of the Declaration of Independence with a direct descendant of John Taylor Gilman, who read it to the townspeople in 1776,” added Carr. “At this year’s festival, visitors can also experience some of our new exhibits, which interpret Revolutionary-era events and culture from diverse perspectives.”

At the museum’s Folsom Tavern, kids can enjoy the newly opened Foy Family Children’s Library, which features a reading nook, curated books on 18th century life, Revolutionary-era dress-up, play kitchen, games, and more. Outside the tavern, adults (ages 21+) can enjoy craft brew from Cisco Brewers.

“We also feature discussions led by first-person reenactors who provide insight into Revolutionary America and ourselves today,” added Carr. “It’s a wonderful immersive experience.”

This immersive experience centered on New Hampshire’s collective Revolutionary past and present is what has attracted Newburyport Bank as a leading festival sponsor for several years. “This is such a unique event that helps visitors of all ages better understand and appreciate what it took to make a nation,” said Mercedes Monaco, business development manager, Newburyport Bank. “We are thrilled to support this year’s American Independence Festival. It is such an honor to be part of the Revolutionary Era legacy of Exeter.”

The 32nd American Independence Festival takes place on Saturday, July 16 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $5 for kids (ages 4 to 18) and $10 for adults with admission free for kids under 4, museum members, and veterans and active military.

To learn more about the museum or purchase festival tickets in advance visit independencemuseum.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’.

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