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’.