American Independence Museum, Exeter, NH
The American Independence Museum in Exeter, NH focuses on New Hampshire’s revolutionary history and the American Revolution in general. The Museum consists of two buildings, the Ladd-Gilman House dating to 1721 and the Folsom Tavern built in 1775. Exhibits at these two historic buildings explore a variety of topics related to Exeter’s revolutionary past.The rooms at the beautifully restored Ladd-Gilman House include exhibits on Exeter during the 18th century, the Gilman family, and the Society of the Cincinnati in New Hampshire. New Hampshire’s military activity in the Revolutionary War is the focus of another exhibit at the Museum. The Museum also includes a special exhibit detailing the history of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. A variety of items from the 18th century are featured in exhibits at the Museum including tableware, silver, textiles, furnishings, letters and military documents, and weaponry. Some of the most impressive items in the Museum’s permanent collection are original drafts of the U.S. Constitution and the Dunlap Broadside. You can see these documents and enjoy celebrating America’s Independence at a spectacular American Independence Festival held at the Museum each July. Many exciting living history exhibits, an arts and crafts fair, special events and fun programs are scheduled during this elaborate and entertaining festival.