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’.