Historian Norra Cardillo is researching the Ladd and Gilman women of Exeter, New Hampshire, work she plans to present as part of her master’s portfolio when she graduates from Idaho State University next spring. A descendant of the Ladd and Gilman families, she visited the historic Ladd-Gilman House (1721) at the American Independence Museum (AIM) for the second time in March to continue her research.

According to Cardillo, her research “explores the lived experiences and impact of
women in history.” She said she is especially interested in the ways in which seventeenth-century women defied societal expectations and resisted British authority, parts of history she believes have been predominantly overlooked.

“New Hampshire provincial records from 1684 show that Gilman family women threatened tax collectors under royal British governor Edward Cranfield with violence in order to successfully evade what they deemed unjust taxation,” she said. “Their rebellious action illustrates that women at this time were equal players in the battle for freedom from British colonial rule.”

One of these women, Elizabeth Gilman (Treworgye), was married to statesman John Gilman Sr. “I believe her feminine rebellion against colonial authority would have greatly influenced those around her,” she added.

She said examples like Gilman (Treworgye) have led her to theorize that the people of Exeter had begun to develop a uniquely American identity long before the revolution. Finding primary sources, however, has proved challenging.

“I have seen firsthand that women in history are underrepresented across vast topics,” she said. “This creates issues in the historical narrative because half of the story is missing unless we take steps to amend this critical oversight.”

According to Cardillo, she is taking these steps herself, which includes uncovering colonial women’s motivations, experiences, and stories from historic collections and documents like those at AIM.

Research Material

Her efforts have garnered her attention, as Cardillo recently learned she has been selected to present her research on the early Gilman women at the American Historical Association’s annual conference in New York City in January 2025. Sponsored by the Coordinating Council for Women in History, Cardillo and other selected graduate students will have the opportunity to share their work.

“I am very excited about this opportunity, and it will be my first time attending an academic historical conference,” she said. “I am honored to have such support in helping to highlight women’s history and I am truly thankful for the role AIM has played in encouraging me in my work.”

Jennifer Carr, former executive director of AIM, expressed excitement that Cardillo is able to utilize AIM’s resources to further her research. “Norra’s research is exactly why maintaining spaces of history is so important,” she said, “Women in colonial America were banned from political participation but found ways to make their voices heard. This research shows that there are many ways to participate in civic engagement and can inspire women today to actively engage in democracy.”

In the coming year, Cardillo plans to analyze artifacts, architecture, and primary and secondary source material to learn more about the Ladd and Gilman women. “It is by honoring a woman’s place in history as equal to that of men, that we ensure a more comprehensive understanding of our past in the present day and for future generations,” she stated.

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’.

Guests at the American Independence Festival on Saturday, July 13 may leave with a greater appreciation for their clothes, their shoes, and even their forks at an authentic Traditional Artisan Village. The Traditional Artisans Village is presented by New Hampshire State Council on the Arts (NHSCA).

“The Artisan Village is a big part of the Festival because it showcases a wide selection of trades that helped shape the colonial industry and supported the fledgling nation during the war for independence,” said Eric von Aschwege, an historic gunsmith who manages the Village. “Festival guests can engage with the artisans and learn about how everyday items were made in the 18th-century by hand.”

This year, von Aschwege said guests can expect a more in-depth experience, including changes to the Village’s layout that will allow more space for each vendor to demonstrate their craft. “I think it’s going to make for a more intimate and programmatic experience for guests,” he said.

At the Village, visitors will meet traditional artisans in period attire, including Thomaston, ME-based Bill Wasson, who returns as a ropemaker demonstrating the precise twisting of fibers to make long sections of rope. Berwick, ME resident Peter Cook will spin flax fiber, the base material for linen and one of the most common fabrics during the Revolution.

“There will also be a couple making leather shoes and a craftsman using cow horns to create common objects such as powder horns, cups, and utensils,” added von Aschwege. “Other expert tradespeople include a wood joiner, candlemaker, basketmaker, and potter.”

At the Festival, Von Aschwege will also participate in the Village, as he will present on 18th-century arms in the colonies once in the morning and again in the afternoon.

“I’m excited to lead a discussion about construction techniques and the difference between how they were made in England versus the colonies,” von Aschwege said. “I think historic trades can inspire people to be excited about creating things and are relevant and interesting for younger, diverse audiences.”

The American Independence Festival is presented by Service Credit Union, whose investment provides free admission for all ages. Additional support is provided by Kennebunk Savings. “Sponsors are instrumental in our ability to bring history to life in creative, educational, and fun ways,” said Dr. Robert Levey, AIM Interim Executive Director.

In addition to the Traditional Artisans Village, the Festival features reenactors and soldiers, special exhibits, games, vendor marketplace, beer garden, and a display of an original copy of the Declaration of Independence (Broadside).

Presented by Service CU, the American Independence Festival takes place at the American Independence Museum in historic downtown Exeter, NH from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 13. Admission is free.

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’.

On Saturday, July 13, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., visitors to the American Independence Festival will be transported back almost 250 years to the brink of the American Revolution.

One highlight of the Festival will be special exhibits, highlighted by a temporary exhibition featuring weaponry of the Revolution. “The exhibit will explore antique arms from this period, including a high-speed video of the arms firing, and the history behind a French shipment of muskets that came into Portsmouth in 1777,” said Ashley Hlebinsky.

Nationally known Arms Historian, Hlebinsky designed the exhibit and will serve as AIM consultant through 2024. “I’m excited to be part of AIM and the Festival,” she added.

At the Festival, hosted by the American Independence Museum (AIM), visitors will also have the opportunity to experience AIM’s new educational garden, an interactive exhibit-in-the-making.

“It will provide people with an opportunity to see changes in agricultural practices and the ways in which plants were used by peoples over the centuries,” said Jennifer Carr, who designed the exhibit. “It will bring that history to life by allowing guests to touch and taste the products of the garden.”

This year’s Festival is presented by Service Credit Union, whose support enables AIM to offer free admission. “Led by Service Credit Union, the Festival is a big celebration with many community partners,” said Dr. Robert Levey, AIM’s Interim Executive Director. “Downtown Exeter has a unique charm that is difficult to match.”

Additional support is provided by New Hampshire State Council on the Arts, which presents a Traditional Artisans Village with demonstrations, and Kennebunk Savings.

In addition to special exhibits and Traditional Artisans Village, the Festival features reenactors and soldiers, games, vendor marketplace, beer garden, and a display of an original copy of the Declaration of Independence (Broadside). At adjoining Swasey Parkway, nonprofit TEAM (Town.Exeter.Arts.Music) will host Independence Fest, which features live music, food, and art.

“On July 13, we bring history to life here in Exeter, New Hampshire,” added Levey. “It will be educational, experiential, and a lot of fun.”

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’.

Presented by the William W. Treat Foundation, children’s educational programming at the American Independence Museum (AIM) is expanding this summer to include six minicamps for ages 7 to 11. Taking place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., July 16 – August 1, “campers” will experience 18th-century life through hands-on activities, colonial attire, and themed projects.

“Each MiniCamp has a different theme kids can explore,” said Program Manager Sarah Jaworski. “These camps are fun and educational at the same time.”

MiniCamp themes include “Not a Soldier,” “Working in the 18th Century,” “History’s Mysteries,” “Culinary Cures,” “Camp Life,” and “Patriot, Loyalists, Neutral or Something Else.” MiniCamps take place on the AIM campus, which sits on a grassy acre in the center of historic Exeter, NH, the capital of New Hampshire during the Revolutionary War.

One of four initiatives within AIM’s We Are One multi-year campaign leading up to the nation’s 250 anniversary, “Educating Children & Youth” is presented by the William W. Treat Foundation with additional support from M&T Bank. Ticket prices for AIM Summer MiniCamps are $65 for nonmember children and $55 for member children.

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’.

Built in 1721, AIM’s Ladd-Gilman House requires significant work in the next several years, beginning with plaster repair to deteriorating walls and ceilings in two rooms. The project, led by Drew Bedard of Hall & Parlor Historic Preservation, has run into unexpected challenges.

“During the demolition phase, we discovered structural issues with the exterior brick walls where doorways were cut in below,” he explained. “Unfortunately, proper consideration wasn’t given to the integrity of the bricks above these doorways, leading to their failure.”

To address the issue, Bedard said they must affect several structural repairs, which include the installation of a steel lintel to reinforce an upstairs wall. “We were not expecting this,” he added.

Earlier this year, AIM received a $11,200 grant from the Cogswell Benevolent Trust to complete the project. According to Facilities Manager Rebeccah Seely, Bedard estimates the project may exceed $35,000.

“This project begins a longer-term strategy where we will focus our attention on the interior of the house,” she said. “The complexity of this project underscores why we seek community support.”

In addition to the plaster repairs, examples of other necessary projects at the Ladd-Gilman House in 2024 include electrical upgrades and lining the chimney that vents the furnace. In total, these repairs are expected to approach $60,000.

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

“The Ladd-Gilman House is an important state treasure, especially as we prepare for the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026,” said Dr. Robert Levey, Interim Executive Director. “We hope to rally support from the community to help us preserve this home so we can continue to not just share its history, but reimagine a shared future.”

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’.

At the American Independence Museum (AIM), “building community” is one of the conceptual pillars that support We Are One, a multi-year campaign that informs all programming, exhibits, and events.

This conceptual pillar is most aptly expressed through AIM’s annual American Independence Festival, which will offer free admission to all ages, courtesy of Service Credit Union.

“We believe in the importance of keeping history alive and appreciate how much AIM does to make history exciting for all generations,” noted Sean Hladick, Manager – Community Relations, Service Credit Union.

For Dr. Robert Levey, Interim Executive Director at AIM, Service CU’s consistent support through the years has become an integral part of the museum’s community engagement strategy.

“Service CU enables AIM to expand its reach in meaningful ways to build community through education that inspires and enlightens,” he said. “I think what connects both organizations is a shared belief that we must look back in order to move forward. History is not an abstract concept, but rather a teaching tool.”

Presented by Service CU, this year’s American Independence Festival will take place on Saturday, July 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It will feature a Traditional Artisans Village (sponsored by the NH State Council on the Arts), games, vendor marketplace, beer garden, and display of an original copy of the Declaration of Independence known as a Broadside. Admission is free.

In addition to the Festival, nonprofit TEAM (Town.Exeter.Arts.Music) will host Independence Fest within walking distance at Swasey Parkway, which will feature live music, food, and art.

“It’s a big celebration the entire day in Exeter with many community partners,” added Levey. “Downtown Exeter has a unique charm that is difficult to match.”

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’.