New Staff Highlight 2023 at American Independence Museum

New Staff Highlight 2023 at American Independence Museum

by | Jan 16, 2023 | For Adults, Human Interest

Founded in 1991, the American Independence Museum in Exeter has become known for its expertise in Revolutionary history education and historic preservation, core strengths enhanced by the recent addition of Rebeccah Seely as Facilities Manager. “I am honored to join the Museum’s exceptional team and excited for the opportunity to contribute to the continued preservation of this American treasure,” said Seely.

Home to a world-class collection of 3,000 historic artifacts, the American Independence Museum features the Ladd-Gilman House (c. 1721) and Folsom Tavern (c. 1775).

Yellow Colonial House with the American flag hanging out front.

Ladd Gilman House

Folsom Tavern

Folsom Tavern

Built in 1721, the Ladd-Gilman House is a National Historic Landmark property that was home to Nicholas Gilman, Jr., a signer of the Constitution. The home also served as Governor’s mansion when Nicholas’ brother, John Taylor Gilman, was Governor of New Hampshire. Their father—Nicholas Gilman, Sr.—served as the state’s first Treasurer.

Folsom Tavern was built in 1775 by Samuel Folsom and visited by George Washington in 1789. The tavern was also the site of the formation of the New Hampshire chapter of the Society of the Cincinnati in 1783. The nation’s oldest patriotic organization, the Society was founded by officers of the Continental Army and their French counterparts who served together in the American Revolution.

As for what drew her to the American Independence Museum, Seely said her interest in Revolutionary history was stoked at an early age. “I grew up in Annapolis, Maryland, which was a significant 18th century town during the American Revolution where George Washington resigned his Commission and Lafayette visited frequently,” she explained. “I also went to a school built on the property shared with the home of John Carroll of Carrollton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.”

Previous to joining the American Independence Museum, Seely’s prior preservation experience included managing the complete restoration of her 1868 Victorian Italianate house in Metuchen, New Jersey. “In the early 20th century, it was home to New England author Mary Wilkins Freeman, and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2019,” she said.

While a resident of Metuchen, Seely served on the Metuchen Historic Preservation Committee for 10 years. Working with county grants, the Committee identified historically significant neighborhoods and successfully nominated the town’s first Historic District to the National Register.

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’.

American Independence Museum to Host Holiday Tavern Open House

American Independence Museum to Host Holiday Tavern Open House

by | Nov 20, 2022 | Events, For Adults, Human Interest

On Thursday, December 1 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the American Independence Museum will host Holiday Tavern Open House at Folsom Tavern (c. 1775). Presented by Kennebunk Savings, the free event will feature light refreshments, make and take crafts, and a silent auction with proceeds to benefit the museum’s programs and tour experiences.

“This is a chance for people new and familiar to experience the Tavern, which will be beautifully decorated for the holidays,” said Jennifer Carr, executive director. “We look forward to concluding a terrific 2022 season with this fun and festive event.”

Highlights from the 2022 season included the continued travels of the museum’s Traveling Trunk program, which provides students across the nation and older adults with insights into the Revolutionary War and its connection to the present. “The program continues to expand and engage people of all ages,” said the museum’s Sarah Jaworski, who manages the program.

The museum also held its annual American Independence Festival in July, which in recent years has evolved to include a theme of inclusivity and diversity of historical perspectives. “History is not static nor can it be told from just one perspective,” explained Carr, who said 2023 will feature exhibits with “more inclusive storylines.” “We have a responsibility to interpret history in broad contexts that invite multiple perspectives.”

In commenting on Holiday Tavern Open House, Carr said she hopes it serves as an open invitation to the community. “This is a fun, low-key event where anyone can come and learn more about what we offer,” she said.

Holiday Tavern Open House takes place from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 1 at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter. Attendance is free.

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’.

Beer for History Concludes with UNH Brewing Science Laboratory

Beer for History Concludes with UNH Brewing Science Laboratory

by | Oct 25, 2022 | Beer for History, For Adults, Human Interest, Programming

Presented by Donahue Tucker & Ciandella, the American Independence Museum’s Beer for History series concludes with UNH Brewing Science Laboratory as featured brewer on Thursday, November 3, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. At this event, UNH BrewLab will pour Harvest Thyme (brown ale), Chocolate Bog (chocolate cranberry milk stout), and Wildcat Wheat (Belgian wheat ale).

“This is a wonderful way to close Beer for History out this year,” said Museum Executive Director Jennifer Carr. “This series is known for providing people with the chance to try lesser known, or difficult to buy locally, beers. UNH BrewLab is delivering on this theme.”

In addition to unique brews, Beer for History features colonial-inspired games, music, and light snacks. Beer for History is family-friendly and also features the Foy Family Children’s Library within Folsom Tavern, a space with curated books for kids, comfortable seating, dress-up area with Revolutionary-era clothing, play kitchen, games, and more.

Beer for History with UNH Brewing Science Laboratory takes place on Thursday, November 3 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the American Independence Museum’s Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for non-members, while youth (under 21) are free.

To purchase tickets, or learn more about Beer for History, click here.

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’.

New Leadership at the American Independence Museum Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive History

New Leadership at the American Independence Museum Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive History

by | Oct 23, 2022 | Events, For Adults, Governance, Human Interest, Programming

The American Independence Museum has announced the appointment of Jennifer Carr to the position of Executive Director.

After receiving both her BA and MA in History from Southern New Hampshire University, Carr first joined the American Independence Museum as a volunteer. Shortly thereafter, in March 2020, she began working for the museum as the Collections Manager and Curator.

During her time as Curator, she has supported the Museum’s mission to share the diverse stories of New Hampshire’s revolutionary past. One example is her work through the museum’s History Matters videos, which highlight individuals such as Wentworth Cheswell, considered the first black American elected to public office. She has updated exhibit information panels to improve accessibility for the seeing impaired and led the migration of all the Museum’s collections information to an online platform that, when complete, can be remotely accessed by external researchers.

In May 2022, Carr took on the role of Acting Executive Director. Regarding the choice to appoint Carr to the role of Executive Director, Museum Board President Ozzie Ayescue said she “has shown incredible dedication.”

“She has worked to preserve the Museum’s valuable collection and facilities and strong leadership delving into the Museum’s collections to find new stories and expose new points of view,” he explained. “She is truly dedicated to creating a more inclusive Museum as part of our overall mission to inspire civic engagement…She is serious and fun to work with—this is a natural step up for Jen.”

Sarah Jaworski, Museum Program Manager, echoed these sentiments. “I am thrilled to continue working with Jen,” she said. “Her commitment to our Museum’s mission and her hard work make her an excellent fit to be the next executive director.”

Under Carr’s leadership, the American Independence Museum will continue its work to share the diverse stories of New Hampshire’s revolutionary past to encourage civic engagement.

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’.

Discover the Spiritualist Connections of Exeter’s Folsom Tavern

Discover the Spiritualist Connections of Exeter’s Folsom Tavern

by | Oct 19, 2022 | Events, For Adults, Human Interest, Programming

On Thursday, October 27, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., on the Folsom Tavern Lawn, the American Independence Museum will host Spirits of the Past, which focuses on the 19th century Spiritualist movement.

Patricia Cizewski, member of the pastoral committee of the First Spiritualist Church of Salem, MA, will speak on Spiritualism, while a mediumship demonstration will wrap up the evening.

“Mediumship is the practice of facilitating communication between familiar spirits, or spirits of the dead, and living human beings,” said Program Manager Sarah Jaworski. “We anticipate an exciting evening full of surprises.”

In addition to providing insight into the Spiritualist movement’s ties to America’s founding principles on freedom of religion, the program will explore its connection to a former tenant of the museum’s Folsom Tavern. “At one time, there was a spiritualist who conducted ‘demonstrations’ from the tavern, so this program highlights some lesser known local history,” said added Jaworski.

Spirits of the Past will take place on the lawn outside Folsom Tavern, 164 Water St., Exeter, NH from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The cost is $15 for non-members and $10 for members with light refreshments provided. Click here to purchase tickets.

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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