Join us for this virtual presentation as part of our re-imagined American Independence Festival!
Seventeen seventy-six is considered the seminal year of our nation’s history, and the drafting, adoption, and signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia were pivotal events.
In faraway Charleston, South Carolina, however, circumstances were unfolding that would profoundly affect the course of our newly-declared sovereignty—a collision between inexperienced South Carolina provincial troops and the military might of the British empire.
In “1776: The Year of William Moultrie, the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, and the Declaration of Independence,” author Chip Bragg chronicles the rise of South Carolina’s iconic patriot, Brig. Gen. William Moultrie, his defense of a small palmetto-log fort in Charleston harbor on June 28, 1776, and the consequences of America’s first significant Revolutionary War victory.
About the presenter Chip Bragg is a recently retired anesthesiologist from Thomasville, Georgia where he has lived and practiced medicine for the past 31 years. His lifelong passion for American history has resulted in the publication of four books. He is currently the chairman of the education committee of the Society of the Cincinnati. His most recent book, of which he is coauthor, is Patriots in Exile: Charleston Rebels in St. Augustine during the American Revolution. It is scheduled for release in July 2020.
School may be out for summer, but it’s time to hit the hornbook! Learn what an 18th century classroom was like in this interactive online program. Schoolmaster Mike will share tools used by students during the 18th century, such as a hornbook and quill pen.
Following his presentation with an active question and answer period, participants will be led in a fun 18th century movement break and a quill writing exercise. Receive your very own 18th century packet with quill pen, dry ink packet, ink well, slate and chalk and one adult and child admission ticket (good through the 2021 season) in an American Independence Museum tote bag.
Colonial school kit may be shipped for an additional flat fee of $10 or picked up at our gift shop at no additional charge
* Have more than one student? Select any additional supplies needed to add to your tote when you purchase your tickets.
A day just for homeschoolers! History comes alive as students travel to the 18th century to learn about daily life in the colonies.Possible activities include:
Don colonial clothing and learn about the wardrobe of a colonial child
Hear about the day in the life of a militia man from a local Revolutionary War participant
Try out some colonial games, including hoops and graces
Participate in a mock one-room school house demonstration
This is not a drop-off program. Parents must accompany children for the duration of the program.
Admission for the program must be paid in advance. Payment may be completed either online or at the museum. No refunds will be made unless the Museum cancels the event.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to scheduled program for check-in.
The event will take place rain or shine. Please ask your students to dress appropriately for the weather, as some activities may take place outside.
Due to the historic nature of the buildings, the museum is not handicap accessible.
Parking is quite limited, so carpooling is encouraged. Two hour on-street parking is available and the Museum’s parking lot is located on Spring Street (behind Folsom Tavern). Please do not park in the lot located near the Ladd-Gilman House (yellow building) and bank or bank parking lot.
Please feel free to utilize museum grounds for lunch, but please be sure to take any trash with you.
The site of many American Independence Museum programs, Folsom Tavern (c. 1775) will undergo a transformation in 2020 with the creation of the Foy Family Children’s Library.
Featuring curated books, seating for children, activity table and more, the Foy Family Children’s Library is made possible by a gift from Jeff and Melissa Foy of East Kingston.
According to Jeff Foy, who has supported the museum for years as co-owner of Foy Insurance, the gift ensures “there will be a permanent place for kids at the museum.”
“My wife Melissa was an elementary school librarian before retiring and I have always loved history, so we saw a chance to combine both our passions and make a lasting impact here,” he said. “We are thrilled to be part of the museum and this project.”
In addition to a dedicated space for a children’s library, the gift will enable the museum to upgrade its entire Children’s Room, which will include high-quality games, clothes, toys and more.
“This library and space is part of a larger initiative to transform our campus into an inviting space for local community members and visitors to Exeter,” said Emma Stratton, museum Executive Director. “We are very thankful for this gift.”
Noting work will begin sometime in February or March, the Foy Family Children’s Library is expected to be complete and open for the start of the American Independence Museum’s 2020 season on May 1.
Home to a world-class collection of 3,000 historic artifacts, the museum welcomes more than 5,000 visitors annually and distinguishes itself with educational school programs and events that make history fun and relevant.
The site of many American Independence Museum programs, Folsom Tavern (c. 1775) will undergo a transformation in 2020 with the creation of the Foy Family Children’s Library.
Featuring curated books, seating for children, activity table and more, the Foy Family Children’s Library is made possible by a gift from Jeff and Melissa Foy of East Kingston.
According to Jeff Foy, who has supported the museum for years as co-owner of Foy Insurance, the gift ensures “there will be a permanent place for kids at the museum.”
“My wife Melissa was an elementary school librarian before retiring and I have always loved history, so we saw a chance to combine both our passions and make a lasting impact here,” he said. “We are thrilled to be part of the museum and this project.”
In addition to a dedicated space for a children’s library, the gift will enable the museum to upgrade its entire Children’s Room, which will include high-quality games, clothes, toys and more.
“This library and space is part of a larger initiative to transform our campus into an inviting space for local community members and visitors to Exeter,” said Emma Stratton, museum Executive Director. “We are very thankful for this gift.”
Noting work will begin sometime in February or March, the Foy Family Children’s Library is expected to be complete and open for the start of the American Independence Museum’s 2020 season on May 1.
About the American Independence Museum The American Independence Museum is a history museum in Exeter, NH that features a collection of 3,000 historic artifacts that shed light on the American Revolution. Many of our programs touch on civics and the fight for independence, while we incorporate inclusivity and diversity into the experiences we create on-site and in digital formats. We feature a variety of things to do for people of all ages, including festivals, an historic tavern, guided tours and our annual American Independence Festival.
