Long before women were allowed to serve openly in the military, one determined Massachusetts woman disguised herself as a man and marched into history. Her bold, risky, and astonishing story comes to life this December at the Nashua Historical Society.
A Woman in the Ranks – Deborah Sampson’s Revolution and Revelation
The Nashua Historical Society is pleased to invite the public to a special presentation, A Woman in the Ranks: Deborah Sampson’s Revolution and Revelation, on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. Doors will open at 6:30 PM.
Speaker Hailee Attorri, appearing in period costume, will share the remarkable true account of Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as a man to fight for American independence and ultimately became one of the nation’s earliest recognized female veterans. Attorri’s vivid storytelling promises an evening that blends history, drama, and the daring spirit of the Revolution. Lunenburg history teacher and Nashua Historical Society Director Attorri reports, “I have been researching for this show since the summertime! The story is unbelievable, and I have an amazing costume courtesy of Eliza Baxter.”
This free public program will be held in the comfortable library of the Florence H. Speare Memorial Museum, located at 5 Abbott Street, Nashua, NH. The building is fully accessible and features padded seating, an elevator, large restrooms, and a ramp leading in from the free parking area off Crescent Street. Refreshments will be served following the program.
This is a free, non-ticketed event. No pre-registration is necessary. Donations are gratefully accepted. For more information, please contact the Nashua Historical Society at nashuahistorical@comcast.net or 603-883-0015.
Special Drawing: Quilted Lap Blanket Raffle
Immediately following the evening’s presentation, at 8:30 PM, the Society will draw the winning ticket for a beautiful, handcrafted lap quilt created and generously donated by Gail Pinet. Community members are encouraged to stop by the Society beforehand to purchase raffle tickets.
About the Nashua Historical Society Founded in 1870, the Nashua Historical Society is a volunteer-run, independent non-profit dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Nashua and its people. The Society owns and operates two museums in Nashua, offering exhibits, educational programs, and community events. For more information, call 603-883-0015 or visit the Society on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/1882438446010871/