Why Does Exeter Celebrate American Independence Two Weeks After July 4th?

The town of Exeter, New Hampshire, is proud of its historic ties to American independence. So much so that, for the last 20+ years, the town celebrates America's birthday two weeks after July 4th

Here's why: when the Second Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, Philadelphia printer John Dunlap was commissioned to print about 200 copies of the Declaration (called broadsides); they were distributed to the American colonies. One copy was sent to Exeter, New Hampshire's capital at the time. Resident (and future New Hampshire governor) John Taylor Gilman read the Declaration out loud to the townspeople of Exeter. You can learn more in this short “history minute” developed by the Exeter Historical Society.

Fast forward to the 1980s, when a Dunlap Broadside was found in the Ladd-Gilman House, a historic home in downtown Exeter owned by the Society of the Cincinnati in the State of New Hampshire, a fraternal organization. That document was the basis of the founding of the American Independence Museum. Once a year, the museum displays an original Dunlap broadside of the Declaration of Independence – among only a few known to still exist – alongside original drafts of the U.S. Constitution during the American Independence Festival, which is July 20, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. During the Festival, you can see both historic documents, tour the American Independence Museum, as well as meet statesmen John Adams and John Taylor Gilman and members of the Colonial militia (portrayed by role players and re-enactors), learn about traditional 18th century crafts, hear cannon fire, watch a Revolutionary battle portrayal, and much more. This year, the Festival also celebrates Exeter's 375th anniversary. A complete schedule of Festival events can be found here.

Looking for something to do on July 4? Stop by the American Independence Museum for birthday cake and a tour. The museum's open for tours from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Guided tours are offered at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m.; self-guided tours are available during regular tour hours (last admission sold at 3 p.m.). Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors 65+, $3 for students age 6-18, free for museum members and children under 6.