Exhibits - New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail

Community Valentine’s Project Highlights Portsmouth’s Rich History

A Valentine made for the Community Valentine’s Project

In early February, Portsmouth Historical Society hosted its first Community Valentine’s Project to show love for places and buildings in Portsmouth. In total, approximately two dozen Valentines were crafted during the event and subsequently hung on the City of Portsmouth’s “Tree of Love” in Market Square for a week after the event.

“This program was conceptualized by our newest staff member, Verity Boyer, who is passionate about sharing the importance of historic preservation with the community,” said Marketing Manager Sabina Ion. “Her idea was to show our love and appreciation for the buildings and spaces around us that impact people’s lives and bring joy to the community.”

Valentines contained messages to locations around Portsmouth, including the John Paul Jones House, Moffatt-Ladd House, Rockingham lions, former Daily Times Building, Ona Judge mural, Strawberry Banke Museum, Memorial Bridge, and African Burying Grounds. “The messages draw attention to how people are still interacting with the monuments of our past and show what an impact the historic character of this city has on the current residents,” Ion said.

Portsmouth Historical Society is a member of the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail. “This event promoted connection to place, history, and culture in a fun and creative way,” said Trail President Jeff Barraclough. “We hope people can turn to museums on The Trail for not just education, but fun experiences for the entire family.”

According to Ion, Portsmouth Historical Society plans to make the Community Valentine’s Project an annual event in partnership with the City of Portsmouth. “This program supports our mission of connecting the community to our past, present, and future,” she explained. Click here to learn more Portsmouth Historical Society.

In addition to the Portsmouth Historical Society in Portsmouth, member institutions on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

New England Racing Museum Celebrates “TrueLOVE” in February

Russ Truelove’s 1956 Mercury

New England Racing Museum is offering $5 off admission in February in honor of “TrueLOVE”, where they will feature the 1956 Mercury Russ Truelove famously raced and crashed on the Daytona Beach and Road Course.

The Mercury has been loaned to New England Racing Museum by the NASCAR Hall of Fame. “It is the only New England car to compete in the Daytona Beach and Road course that survives,” said Ruth Thompson, New England Racing Museum Deputy Director & Assistant to the President.

After qualifying 5th in the “flying mile time trial” at the Daytona course in 1956, Truelove rolled the Mercury six times. The crash was later featured in Life Magazine. In addition to the repaired car, the display at New England Racing Museum features the magazine spread and a film clip of the crash.

“The car is in great condition,” said Thompson. “The interior looks as it did when Truelove raced it with its original dashboard, steering wheel, crank windows, and bench seat. It has become a lot of visitors’ favorite car to see.”

Truelove’s daughter, Robin Truelove Stronk of Westmoreland, New Hampshire, said her father “lived to race.” “He literally took a stock car on a payment plan from the showroom floor where he worked as a salesman with the idea of racing it in the 1956 Grand National at Daytona,” she said.

When situations went awry, such as after the crash, her father always said, “’I’ll think of something,’” added Truelove Stronk.

New England Racing Museum is offering $5 off admission for in February. This month, the museum gift shop is also promoting its first women’s t-shirt in the shade of raspberry for $20. Click here for more information about New England Racing Museum.

In addition to the New England Racing Museum in Loudon, member institutions on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

Museum of the White Mountains Opens New Exhibit

MWM’s new exhibit “Silent Shifts: Evolving Winters in the White Mountains”

The Museum of the White Mountains (MWM) has opened a new exhibit, “Silent Shifts: Evolving Winters in the White Mountains,” on display until March 29.

The exhibit was co-curated by MWM Director Meghan Doherty and New Hampshire-based photographer Joe Klementovich. According to Doherty, the exhibit explores how winters have changed in the last 150 years. Through displays that feature historical and contemporary winter recreation gear, graphs from climate science studies, and winter-related photography by Klementovich, the exhibit reveals the complex relationships between climate, technology, and access to the outdoors.

“We want visitors to the exhibition to both appreciate the rich history of winter recreation in the White Mountains and recognize how our winters are changing,” said Doherty. “Since 1970, winters in New Hampshire have warmed up 6 ℉.”

Since 1957, she said snowpack duration has also decreased by 31 days at Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in Woodstock, New Hampshire. “As our winters get warmer and we experience more rain during the winter months, our opportunities to get outside and experience the joys of winter recreation are decreasing,” she added. “Getting out and enjoying the snow helps us remember the joys of winter and why it’s worth protecting.”

MWM is one of nearly two dozen NH Heritage Museum Trail member institutions. According to Trail President Jeff Barraclough, the new exhibit at MWM underscores the relevance of The Trail itself.

“Collectively, our exhibits and programs reveal not just the importance of historical knowledge but its relevance to today,” he said. “We hope people will take the time to explore this exhibit and consider visiting our many other worthy member institutions.”

To learn more about the Museum of the White Mountains, including the “Silent Shifts: Evolving Winters in the White Mountains” exhibit, visit plymouth.edu/mwm.

In addition to the Museum of the White Mountains in Plymouth, member institutions on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

The Trail Kicks off 25 Stories for 250 Years

Mt. Kearsarge Museum in Warner, NH

Leading up to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in July 2026, the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail has launched 25 Stories for 250 Years. In this initiative, member institutions on The Trail will share stories about unique and interesting people, places, and events that celebrate New Hampshire heritage.

“Every museum has interesting stories to tell about the men and women who have shaped the history of the state,” said Trail President Jeff Barraclough. “This project will highlight some often overlooked stories about those people and events and raise better awareness of their importance to New Hampshire’s history.”

The project, which kicked off in December 2024, asks each of The Trail’s 21 member institutions to contribute at least one story about New Hampshire history. These stories will be released each month through 2026. “It is our hope that people will learn new things about New Hampshire through this project and that they will be inspired to visit the museums on the Trail,” added Barraclough.

In December, The Trail highlighted “Raid on Fort William and Mary” by the American Independence Museum (AIM), which also contributed “Revolutionary Women” in January. Featured stories are available on nhmuseumtrail.org, Facebook, and Instagram.

In addition to Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough, member institutions on The Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

The Trail Holds Professional Development Day for Educators

The “Cultivating Teacher Care” event at Castle in the Clouds in 2024

On Thursday, February 6, Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough will host their second annual Professional Development Day for educators, Cultivating Teacher Care at the Castle.

“We want to provide a unique and relaxing day of learning that showcases Castle in the Clouds and all we have to offer,” said Debbi Finkelstein, Director of Education & Partnerships at Castle in the Clouds. “Our mission is all about sharing and educating, so this program fits in perfectly.”

The event is designed for educators who teach kindergarten through grade 12, but Finkelstein said preschool teachers and college level instructors are also welcome. During the event, educators will have the opportunity to network and participate in activities such as mindfulness journaling, crafting, and yoga. The event will also feature an informational session, Good Food, Good Mood, with nutritionist Katy Magoon and From Canvas to Film: Exploring the Art & Artists of Lucknow, a presentation by Castle in the Clouds Curator & Director of Preservation Robin Sherman.

According to Trail President Jeff Barraclough, events like these are “at the heart of our mission to connect the public with our culturally rich member institutions.” He added, “Supporting educators in the state and beyond means we are also supporting the next generation’s stewards of history.”

Educators at last year’s event

Taking place on Thursday, February 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Cultivating Teacher Care at the Castle requires pre-registration and costs $150 per person. Lunch will be provided along with a short hike around the property, weather permitting. Each educator will be entered into a raffle with the opportunity to win a complimentary Castle in the Clouds Family Membership, a Family Four Pack, and a $50 gift certificate for use at the estate.

Interested educators in New Hampshire and surrounding states can pre-register and learn more here. Castle in the Clouds will also host a free annual Teacher Open House in June with more information to be released soon.

In addition to Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough, member institutions on The Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

National Historic Landmark Designated on NH Heritage Museum Trail

The Lucknow Estate (Castle in the Clouds) in Moultonborough, NH

In December, the Lucknow Estate (Castle in the Clouds), a New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail member, was designated a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior. This designation is the highest level of Federal recognition for a historic site.

“Having the Lucknow Estate recognized for its exceptional integrity and significance in both architecture and landscape architecture is a testament to the importance of preserving our nation’s history,” said Castle in the Clouds Executive Director Charles Clark. “It is particularly gratifying that our work to preserve, interpret, and share this special place has been recognized.”

Built between 1913 and 1914, the estate initially sat on 6,300 acres and was a retirement retreat for shoe manufacturer Thomas Gustave Plant and his wife, Olive Plant. The recent National Historic Landmark designation includes over 5,300 acres protected by partner organizations Castle Preservation Society and the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, making the Lucknow Estate the largest geographical Historic Landmark District in the state.

According to Clark, the road to designation was “an intense process with multiple steps.” The Lucknow Estate is now one of roughly 2,600 National Historic Landmarks in the country and one of 24 in New Hampshire.

“We hope that this designation encourages even more people to visit the Estate and see first-hand the beauty and integrity that make it one of the most special places in the country,” added Clark. “The Castle Preservation Society will continue to strive for the highest level of historic preservation, just as we have since taking over the restoration and operation of the property in 2006.”

Click here to learn more about the Lucknow Estate and its history.

In addition to Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough, member institutions on The Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

Grant to Fund “Preservation in Action” on NH Heritage Museum Trail

From left – LCHIP Board Chair Richard Lewis, Gov. Chris Sununu, AIM Board President Joe Pace, LCHIP Executive Director Paula Bellemore. Photo credit – Joe Klementovich

The American Independence Museum (AIM), a member of the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail, has been awarded a $170,590 matching grant for a major restoration project to preserve the historic Ladd-Gilman House. The grant was awarded by the New Hampshire Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP).

Trail President Jeff Barraclough expressed gratitude for LCHIP’s contribution to funding the restoration project. “The Ladd-Gilman House is a historically significant structure in the state,” he said. “This grant will help preserve history and bring awareness to other historic buildings and sites on The Trail.”

Built in 1721 by Nathaniel Ladd as one of the state’s first brick houses, AIM’s Ladd-Gilman House was purchased in 1747 by Daniel Gilman, a prominent Exeter merchant. The Ladd-Gilman House served as the state treasury during the Revolutionary War when two members of the Gilman family, Col. Nicholas Gilman and his son John Taylor Gilman, later the state’s governor, served as state treasurer. The house was also the birthplace of Nicholas Gilman, Jr., a signer of the United States Constitution and a U.S. senator.

“This project is vital for the longevity of the Ladd-Gilman House,” said AIM Interim Executive Director Jennifer Carr. “It ensures that the house is not only visually beautiful for the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026 but is well preserved for future generations.”

According to Carr, preservation work will include window restoration, foundation repair, structural work, repairs to doors, jambs, and thresholds, asbestos abatement, and exterior work on damaged clapboards and paint. “I love that we are able to show guests what historic preservation really looks like,” Carr added. “Preservation is part of our mission, but people rarely see all that is involved in keeping centuries-old buildings standing. This project is a wonderful opportunity for guests to see preservation in action.”

Per LCHIP grant guidelines, AIM is required to match each dollar plus at least one additional dollar to fund the project.

Carr noted that people can expect to see exterior renovation work over the next two years.
“As we move toward the nation’s Semiquincentennial, there is an increased opportunity to bring attention to the need to preserve places with ties to the American Revolution,” she said. “This generous grant allows us to do just that.”

In addition to the American Independence Museum in Exeter, member institutions on The Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

Portsmouth Historical Society Showcases Sweet Traditions with Gingerbread Contest

Last year’s best first-time entry award went to Penny and Charlotte for “Christmas at John’s House”
Photo credit – Portsmouth Historical Society

On Friday, November 29, the 34th Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibition opens at the Portsmouth Historical Society on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail. This year’s theme is “Holiday Memories,” where participants were encouraged to make their favorite holiday memories out of gingerbread.

Featuring a Reception and Judges’ Award Presentation on Friday, December 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., the 34th Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibition closes on Monday, December 30. “This year’s gingerbread displays promise to bring the spirit of the holidays to life through warm family memories and winter pastimes,” said Marketing Manager Sabina Ion. “This annual event is a truly unique way to celebrate the magic of the season.”

Click here to learn more about this and other holiday-themed events at Portsmouth Historical Society.

According to Jeff Barraclough, President of the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail, the 34th Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Exhibition is “one of many festive events” on The Trail. “From Portsmouth to the Lakes Region and Manchester, there is plenty of holiday cheer for all ages on The Trail this season,” he said. “Explore and share the holidays with us.”

In addition to the Portsmouth Historical Society in Portsmouth, member institutions on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

The Trail Lights Up For The Holidays

Christmas at the Castle at Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough

This year, nearly two-dozen member institutions on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail will celebrate the holidays with special programs and events. “This is going to be a festive season on The Trail,” said The Trail President Jeff Barraclough. “There are plenty of opportunities for guests to get into the holiday spirit with the whole family.”

One opportunity is on Saturday, December 7 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Canterbury Shaker Village, which will feature music from Symphony New Hampshire Quartet. The concert, Merry Merry Canterbury Concert & Cocktails, will take place in the Dwelling House Chapel and be followed by a reception with appetizers and drinks in the Hubbard Gallery.

“This is going to be a lively and festive event that will kick off the holidays at the Village,” said Executive Director Erin Hammerstedt. “The Dwelling House Chapel is a beautiful location for music, and the entire Village will be stunning when it’s decorated.” Tickets for Merry Merry Canterbury Concert & Cocktails are $35. Click here to purchase tickets.

In Moultonborough, Castle in the Clouds will hold their annual Christmas at the Castle event from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. over three consecutive weekends, November 23 and 24, November 30 and December 1, and December 7 and 8. “We added an extra weekend this year for visitors to tour the beautifully decorated historic Lucknow Mansion,” said Charles Clark, executive director at Castle in the Clouds. “This year’s holiday theme, Home for the Holidays, brings a cozy, nostalgic touch to the festive season.”

According to Clark, the theme offers a modern twist on the legacy of the original owners, Tom and Olive Plant. “They crafted a place filled with personal touches, early 20th century innovations, and stunning views that create a sense of warmth and hospitality,” he added. During event days, Castle in the Clouds will also feature Tours, an Artisan Fair, photos with Santa Claus, crafts, and hot cocoa and cookies. The Carriage House Restaurant will also be open. Tickets for Christmas at the Castle are $25 for adults, $15 for those ages 5 through 17, and free for children 4 and under. Click here to purchase tickets online or tickets can be bought at the Carriage House on event days.

On Saturday, December 7, the Millyard Museum in Manchester will also host holiday events. From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Holiday Open House will feature crafts, old-fashioned board games, and a visit with Santa Claus from noon to 1:00 p.m. Holiday Open House is free.

Millyard Museum will also host Home for the Holidays American Girl Tea Party on Saturday, December 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. At this event, guests will enjoy crafts, treats, and stories about how different cultures and time periods celebrated Christmas and other winter holidays. Click here to purchase tickets, priced at $20.

“It’s a wonderful time of year to visit The Trail,” Barraclough added. “History can be festive.”

In addition to Canterbury Shaker Village in Canterbury, Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough, or Millyard Museum in Manchester, member institutions on The Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

Scouts Earn Merit Badges on New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail

The exhibit floor at the L.L. Lee Scouting Museum

The New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail offers Scouts the opportunity to earn the Scouting Heritage Merit Badge by studying Scouting history in-person and virtually at the L.L. Lee Scouting Museum in Manchester, New Hampshire, owned by Daniel Webster Council, Scouting America.

“The Scouting Heritage Merit Badge requires researching the history of Scouting, which is right up our alley,” said Joe Biedrzycki, Communications Director and Volunteer Coordinator. “It includes learning about the founder of Scouting, Sir Robert Baden-Powell, and we have an exceptional collection of artifacts about his life, including items from his home.”

These include BP’s original, hand-drawn illustrations, a first edition of Scouting for Boys, and historic uniforms, pins, and badges that date back to Scouting’s origins in 1907 England. “The Scouting Heritage Merit Badge was introduced in 2010 for BSA’s 100th anniversary,” said Biedrzycki. “There are 137 different subjects Scouts can explore to earn merit badges, and 14 merit badges are required among the 21 needed to earn the Eagle Scout rank.”

In addition to artifacts and information about Baden-Powell, the Scouting Museum has exhibits on Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Exploring, Venturing, and Girl Scouting. “We constantly add and rotate things in and out of the permanent collection,” explained Biedrzycki. “The concept is that you can come to the Scouting Museum any number of times, and it’s a little different every time.”

According to Biedrzycki, the museum’s impact extends beyond their brick and mortar headquarters. “We bring pieces of our collection and a portable exhibit to the West Point Camporee every spring-—it’s the largest weekend Scout encampment in the nation,” he said. Noting 5,000 kids from across the country camp out on the campus, Biedrzycki said the West Point Camporee is run by the Scoutmasters’ Council, founded by the large number of cadets who are Eagle Scouts.

Recently, he said museum staff attended a similar event, Norwich University Scouting Association Camporee. “On October 11, we also went to the New England Shooting Sports Symposium at Hidden Valley Scout Reservation,” he added.

According to Trail President Jeff Barraclough, the Scouting Museum’s broad impact exemplifies the scope of The Trail itself. “All museums on The Trail have an impact that extends far beyond their respective walls,” he said. “We appreciate the Scouting Museum’s unique expertise, as it reaches current and past Scouts throughout the nation—their impact extends The Trail’s reach, too.”

Offering free admission, the Scouting Museum is open Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and select Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. year-round. Private tours are also available by request. Click here to learn more about the Scouting Museum or request a tour.

In addition to the L.L. Lee Scouting Museum in Manchester, member institutions on The Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

Hot Rods and ‘Light’ Highlight Upcoming Events on New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail

On Saturday, August 27 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the New England Racing Museum will host the Hot Rods, Muscle and More Car Show, presented by Shea Concrete Products. Accepting all makes, models, and years, the show will feature more than 150 vehicles with proceeds to support the mission of the New England Racing Museum.

“Everything we do is meant to preserve and educate the public on the history of New England motor racing,” said Thomas Netishen, executive director. “This show is a wonderful and fun way for the public to have a great time and learn more about us and the region’s rich motor racing history.”

In total, the museum will award 21 trophies, including the Parker-Coraine Best of Show Trophy. “Ted Parker and Gil Coraine are a big part of the museum’s success, so we are thrilled we can honor them in this way each year,” added Netishen.

One highlight of the show is the ‘Coolest Sounding’ vehicle runoff competition, which takes place at 1:00 p.m. In addition to a 50/50 raffle, visitors are invited to explore the history of regional motor racing with more than 30 historical race car and motorcycle exhibits inside New England Racing Museum as well as test their skills on its iRacing and four lane electric slot car track.

“We look forward to welcoming supporting car owners and spectators of all ages to our annual car show fundraiser for a day of family fun,” said Netishen.

The cost to enter a vehicle into the show is $20, which includes two free tickets to the museum that day of the show. The cost for spectators is $5 per person with kids under 12 admitted free. To learn more, visit nemsmuseum.com.

In nearby Canterbury Shaker Village in Canterbury, visitors have the unique opportunity to explore several of its historic 18th century structures with protective UV filters removed from the windows. This opportunity is made possible through “Let There Be Light: Natural Illumination,” one of several new ‘By Appointment Only’ Tours.

“With these filters removed, visitors can experience the inside of these buildings in lovely natural light like the Shakers themselves,” said Executive Director Leslie Nolan. “It is an incredible experience.”

“Let There Be Light” takes place on Fridays, August 19, September 16, and October 21. Other ‘By Appointment Only’ Tours include “Elders & Eldresses: Shaker Leadership” and “Music & Movement: Shaker Song & Dance.”

Established in 1792, Canterbury Shaker Village is one of the oldest, most typical and completely preserved of the Shaker Villages. Subscribing to a revolutionary Christianity that shocked their contemporaries, the Shakers challenged nearly every mainstream ideal of American society. “These appointment-only tours provide a rare glimpse into Shakers life,” added Nolan.

To make an appointment, or learn more about the Village, visit shakers.org

In addition to the New England Racing Museum in Loudon and Canterbury Shaker Village in Canterbury, member institutions on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

Plenty to do in Portsmouth on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail

Featuring nearly two-dozen museums in New Hampshire, the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail offers plenty to do in Portsmouth, one of its major hubs. “Portsmouth is not just a gateway for many visitors to The Trail, but the entire state,” said Jeff Barraclough, president of the group and also executive director of founding member, Millyard Museum, in Manchester.

Emma Stratton, executive director of the Portsmouth Historical Society, agreed and said many visitors are actively looking for suggestions on what to do. “You could spend a week in Portsmouth and still not be finished, but then you have the entire Trail to explore,” she said.

Formed in 2014 to share resources and better promote their programs, exhibits, and events, The Trail includes museums on the Seacoast and in Merrimack Valley and the Lakes Region of New Hampshire.

Regarding what is happening now in Portsmouth on The Trail, Stratton expressed excitement in the recent opening of their exhibit, entitled ‘Imagine That! The Power of Picture Books.’ A collection of more than 100 illustrations for children’s picture books, the exhibit represents a “who’s who” of New England illustrators—from Hans and Margret Rey (Curious George) and Dr. Seuss (aka Theodor Geisel) to contemporary artists.

“The exhibit also includes reflections on diversity and inclusion in addition to creative reading, craft and play areas, and a ‘Journey Box’ initiative that will go to local schools, libraries, and underserved families,” she said.

At nearby Strawbery Banke Museum, self-guided tours of the 10-acre campus, including the historic buildings and heirloom gardens, are available daily from May 1 to October 31. Strawbery Banke also features their popular Tuesdays on the Terrace, a music series that features regional talent every Tuesday through September 13 from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

“This season, visitors to Strawbery Banke can also explore the Water has a Memory: Preserving Strawbery Banke and Portsmouth from Sea Level Rise exhibit,” said Lawrence J.

Water Has Memory Exhibit

Yerdon, President and CEO. “This exhibit teaches how the Museum and its partners are addressing the impacts of sea level rise on the historic houses.”In addition to Portsmouth Historical Society and Strawbery Banke, museums on The Trail in Portsmouth include Albacore Park and The Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden. Located just minutes from Portsmouth, other museums in the seacoast branch of the Trail include the American Independence Museum (Exeter) and the Woodman Museum (Dover).

“The Trail might begin on the Seacoast, but it does not end there,” noted Barraclough, who said they offer a Passport program, which provides buyers with one free admission ticket to each member museum at a discount.

Sponsored by Bank of New Hampshire, passports ($150 value) are available for purchase at each participating museum for just $25. The Passport includes brief summaries of the museums, organized by location and category, that may be stamped upon entry.

Founded in 1917, Portsmouth Historical Society is devoted to championing the history, arts, and culture of the Portsmouth region through acquisitions, preservation, museum exhibitions, programs, and publications. To learn more about the Portsmouth Historical Society, visit portsmouthhistory.org.

New Exhibit Opens on New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail

Now through September 30, the Millyard Museum in Manchester will present the exhibit, The People’s Sculptor: The Life and Works of John Rogers. A talented artist and successful businessman whose statuary “groups” were very popular in the late nineteenth century, Rogers (1829 – 1904) was known as “The People’s Sculptor.”

“He was the first American sculptor to mass produce his work,” said Jeff Barraclough, executive director of the Millyard Museum, one of more than 20 museums on the New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail. “He sold as many as 80,000 sculptures during his lifetime and effectively brought the art of sculpture to the American middle class.”

Rogers got his start as a sculptor in Manchester while working as a mechanic in the machine shop of the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company from 1850 to 1856. In his free time, he began to model with clay he found near the Merrimack River in Hooksett, which led to his career as a sculptor. Towards the end of his career, he gave one of his finest works, a seated statue of Abraham Lincoln, to the City of Manchester as a gift.

“This exhibit celebrates Rogers and his art and the important influence Manchester had in his life,” said Barraclough, who is also president of The Trail.

To learn more about the exhibit, visit manchesterhistoric.org.

In addition to the Millyard Museum, member institutions on The Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.

‘Watch the Seasons Change,’ Take Flight, and More

This season, education and adventure are just two kinds of experiences possible on New Hampshire Heritage Trail, which stretches from Portsmouth to Manchester and up through the Lakes Region.

On Saturday, June 4 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., education takes center stage at the Museum of the White Mountains (MWM), as it hosts an Opening Reception for a new exhibit, titled Watching the Seasons Change. The exhibit, noted MWM Director Meghan Doherty, will explore the seasons through different lenses, including artists’ perspectives and scientific research.

“Spring Thaw in the Presidentials, Mary Brewster Hazelton, Oil on Canvas, 1889. Museum of the White Mountains, Gift of Douglas and Karin Cullity Nelson.”

“Sap Collector, Artist Once Known, Birchbark, Vine or Twine, Circa 1870. On Loan from Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, Warner, N.H.”

“As the seasons change in the Northeast, we all expect certain signs – the bright red of the sugar maple, the crackle of frozen puddles under foot, the sweet smell of fresh growth as the snow melts, the burble of the brook under a thick canopy of leaves.” she said. “This exhibit will take a look at how our changing climate is affecting those things.”

Watching the Seasons Change Opening Reception is free to attend. To learn more about the exhibit, or MWM, visit plymouth.edu/mwm.

For those looking for adventure, the Aviation Museum of New Hampshire will hold the annual Nashua Fly-In BBQ on Saturday, June 18 in Nashua, NH.

According to Executive Director Jeff Rapsis, this event is “a great kick off to summer” with fun for all ages. “This is a terrific event that we look forward to hosting every year, especially as a way to celebrate dads,” he said.

At this Father’s Day weekend event, some of the highlights include vintage and home-built aircrafts, vintage cars, and a virtual reality exhibit that features a world aerobatics champion.

The event will also feature a restored Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina, a twin-engined amphibious World War II-era aircraft. The airplane, one of very few of its type still flying, will be on display to visitors through noon, and will offer rides in the afternoon.

To purchase tickets, or learn more about the Aviation Museum in Londonderry, visit nhahs.org.

Aside from preserving the history and heritage of New Hampshire, individual museums on The Trail feature events, programs, exhibits, and experiential learning opportunities for all ages. To learn more about The Trail, including its Passport program, which provides buyers with one free admission ticket to each member museum, visit nhmuseumtrail.org.

New Hampshire Heritage Museum Trail Puts Spotlight on Canterbury Shaker Village

Located on a country road in rural Canterbury just 20 minutes outside New Hampshire’s state capital in Concord, Canterbury Shaker Village sits on nearly 700 acres, delighting visitors from across the region and beyond.

“The history here is just incredible,” said Executive Director Leslie Nolan, who said the property features thirty historic buildings and an extensive network of nature trails, ponds, and gardens for outdoor exploration.

Established in 1792, Canterbury Shaker Village is one of the oldest, most typical, and most completely preserved of the Shaker Villages. Subscribing to a revolutionary Christianity that shocked their contemporaries, the Shakers challenged nearly every mainstream ideal of American society, believing in communal ownership, pacifism, dancing in worship, equality of the sexes, celibacy, and living simply.

“They thrived here for 200 years,” explained Nolan, who said the last Shaker sister in residence, Ethel Hudson, died in 1992. “Our mission here is to preserve and interpret the legacy of the Shakers, while providing a place for learning, reflection, and renewal of the human spirit.”

This mission is achieved in multiple ways, including indoor and outdoor guided tours that begin on May 14. “On these tours, you will learn about how Shakers impacted agriculture, technology, modern architecture, and design in America,” said Nolan. “The Shakers were very creative and quite unorthodox.”

Image of work by Lesley Dill, inspired by Mother Ann Lee, who founded the Shakers - Copy

Another highlight from this year’s season includes Wilderness: Light Sizzles Around Me, an Exhibition by renowned artist Lesley Dill, that will run May 28 – September 11. Featuring a uniquely inspired selection of sculptures and two-dimensional works more than a decade in the making, the exhibition represents Dill’s ongoing investigation into the significant voices and personas of America’s past.

“This is a fantastic exhibit in our beautiful new gallery space,” said Nolan. “We are thrilled to show her work.”

On Thursday, June 23, Canterbury Shaker Village will host Simply Shaker Annual Fundraiser where guests will enjoy an open house, dinner, and celebration under a tent overlooking Turning Mill Pond. An accompanying online auction will also take place June 10 – June 20.

In partnership with New Hampshire Academy of Science, Canterbury Shaker Village will offer Introduction to Scientific Research Program on July 18 – 22 and July 25 – 29 for students, grades 8 – 10.

“This program takes place in our brand new STEM Lab,” said Nolan. “Here, students will learn about scientific planning, instrument techniques, and analytic approaches scientists use in an advanced ethically run research lab.”

In talking about their membership in the New Hampshire Heritage Trail, Nolan said she hopes Canterbury Shaker Village can inspire visitors to explore other member institutions.

“The Trail is a wonderful resource for the state, as each member museum works diligently to not just preserve history, but actively interpret and present it to audiences of varying ages and interests,” she said. “We invite you to experience all The Trail has to offer this season.”

To learn more about Canterbury Shaker Village, visit https://www.shakers.org.

In addition to Canterbury Shaker Village in Canterbury, member institutions on The Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.