Military Gallery of the Wright Museum of WWII in Wolfeboro
As summer draws to a close, New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail President Jeff Barraclough called this summer “one of our strongest seasons yet,” marked by record visitor engagement and significant trail expansion.
“This summer has been remarkable,” said Barraclough. “We’ve seen tremendous growth in both local participation and out-of-state visitors discovering the incredible heritage stories our member museums tell. The enthusiasm has been infectious.”
The Trail’s popular Passport Program has been a particular success, attracting thousands of locals and tourists eager to discover museums they might not otherwise visit
Recent additions to the Trail, including the New England Ski Museum with locations in Franconia and North Conway, have expanded The Trail’s reach into New Hampshire’s rich snow sports heritage.
“Each new member institution brings unique stories and perspectives that strengthen our collective mission,” Barraclough explained. “The Ski Museum’s addition this summer has been especially exciting, connecting visitors to New Hampshire’s winter sports legacy while demonstrating how our smaller museums can pool resources for greater impact.”
Looking ahead to fall, Barraclough highlighted several initiatives designed to showcase New Hampshire’s diverse cultural landscape during the peak foliage season. “Fall is when New Hampshire truly shines, and our museums offer the perfect complement to the natural beauty visitors come to see,” he said. “We’re encouraging people to make their leaf-peeping trips more meaningful by discovering the human stories behind our landscapes.”
The Trail’s “25 Stories for 250 Years” initiative continues to unfold throughout the autumn months, offering visitors deeper connections to New Hampshire’s heritage as the state approaches its 250th anniversary.
“What excites me most is how our member museums are being recognized as significant cultural institutions that preserve and promote understanding of our national and state heritage,” Barraclough noted. “That recognition translates into increased support, better programming, and ultimately, more opportunities for people to connect with their history.”
The New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail connects the public with culturally rich heritage institutions across the state’s Lakes Region, White Mountain Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast. Member museums showcase diverse heritage from art and history to science and industry, offering unique stories and unforgettable experiences for all ages.