Beer for History at the American Independence Museum
Beer for History is returning to the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail on Thursdays this fall at historic Folsom Tavern (c. 1775) at the American Independence Center. Seven Beer for History programs, running from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., will take place between September 10 and December 3, paired with historic presentations.
American Independence Center (AIC) Executive Director Joe Pace said the program, now in its tenth year, has become a way to connect people with history in an informal setting. “It’s a way to showcase the historic Folsom Tavern, engage the community in compelling historic topics, and have some fun,” he said.
This year’s series includes presentations on taverns, maritime history, weapons, wine, the Continental Marines, alcohol during the Revolution, and Washington’s crossing of the Delaware.
According to Pace, the 2026 season is expanded to coincide with the nation’s 250th anniversary. “We’re excited to expand the program during this year of America’s 250th celebration,” he said. “We’ve launched the Tankard Club this year, where patrons can secure a season’s pass to all seven events for $250 — and we’ll also hang a metal tankard in their name at the Tavern for use at events.”
The 2026 schedule begins Sept. 10 with “A Time of Taverns,” featuring Northeastern professor Malcolm Purinton and Exeter Brewing Company. On Sept. 24, author Eric Jay Dolin will present “Nautical Narrations” with Czar’s Brewery.
The Oct. 8 program, “Swordplay!” will focus on sharp, pointy weapons with re-enactor Anne Kraemer. The brewery partner is still to be announced. On Oct. 22, the series shifts to “Wine for History” with Vino e Vivo and its sommelier.
The Nov. 5 event, “The Continental Marines,” will feature Richard Tucker and Fat Hen Brewing Company. On Nov. 19, author Brooke Barbier will present “Cocked and Boozy,” a program about alcohol and the Revolution, with Samuel Adams.
The season concludes Dec. 3 with “Washington’s Crossing,” presented by AIC Curator Kali Kraemer. The brewery partner is still to be announced.
According to Pace, the appeal of Beer for History is its mix of setting, subject matter, and audience participation. “Beer for History is a chance for the public to visit campus to sample great brews, learn more about the Center, and engage with historic topics in a friendly, interactive environment with excellent presenters,” he said.
He pointed to a 2025 program as an example of how the series brings history to life. “World-class chocolate maker Enna Grazier spoke on chocolate at the time of the Revolution, and guests were able to sample hot chocolate as George and Martha Washington liked it,” he said. “When history is interactive and enjoyable, people tend to want more of it — and we’re happy to indulge them.”
Tickets are $25 per program and take place at Folsom Tavern, One Governors Lane, Exeter. The Tankard Club season pass is $250 and includes admission to all seven 2026 events and a personal tankard hanging in the Folsom Tavern kitchen.
AIC is one of nearly two dozen museums on the NH Heritage Museum Trail, with locations in the Seacoast, Lakes Region, White Mountains, Dartmouth-Sunapee Region, and Merrimack Valley.