Exeter's American Independence Museum Receives $80K Grant

EXETER, NH — Exeter's American Independence museum was awarded an $80,000 grant this month from the state. The money will be used for repairs to the Ladd-Gilman House, built in 1721. The building was home to the State Treasury from 1785 to 1789 and Gov. John Taylor Gilman lived there in 1800.

The New Hampshire Land and Community Heritage Investment Program issued the grant.

"It is a pleasure to work with dedicated colleagues from local government, citizens groups and non-profits to preserve the places that make our state special," program Chair Amanda Merrill said in a statement.

The grant will help pay for utility upgrades, foundation repairs, storm doors, replacement of a stone wall, restoration of rotted sills and archaeology, according to museum Executive Director Emma Bray.

"We are so appreciative of LCHIP’s investment in this project at the Ladd-Gilman House, which celebrates its 300th anniversary in 2021," Bray said in a statement.

The American Independence Museum also includes Folsom Tavern, which was built during the American Revolution. George Washington dined there in 1789. Last month, the tavern was added to the New Hampshire State Register of Historic Places.

Photo: The Ladd-Gilman House at Exeter's American Independence Museum. (Credit: American Independence Museum)