Ruffner Real Estate renews longstanding partnership with American Independence Museum

A leader in town and committed to numerous philanthropic causes, Florence Ruffner of Ruffner Real Estate recently invested $1,500 to support the American Independence Museum.

According to Emma Bray, executive director at the museum, Ruffner’s continued participation in their Business Partner program is noteworthy.

“Florence has a deep knowledge of this community, its people and the town’s inner workings,” she said. “Her financial support demonstrates her commitment to us and the preservation of history—we are so grateful.”

A former Board of Governor and current Ambassador at the museum, Ruffner said her continued support of the nonprofit organization reflects a deep appreciation for its role as well as for Exeter itself.

“I have been looking out the front window of my office for the last 30 years and enjoyed the fact that the museum, the cannons, and the grounds have remained virtually unchanged,” she said. “It's a testament to the rich history of our town and serves as an historical anchor for the greater Seacoast as so much around us changes and evolves.”

For Ruffner, this Saturday’s 27th American Independence Festival on July 15 serves as the museum’s “signature calling card.”

“It gives the community a chance to see and experience the history up close and personal in an interactive way,” she said.

On Saturday, thousands are expected to visit Exeter for the festival. Featuring historic battle re-enactments, games, children’s activities, cannon firings, crafts, music, food and more, the festival provides visitors with a unique glimpse into Colonial life and its connection to the present.

Visitors will also get the chance to witness and interact with hundreds of costumed militia re-enactors, who will recreate several battles on nearby Swasey Parkway with the booming of actual cannons. In addition to the festival, downtown shops and restaurants will be open to provide visitors with a classic New England experience.

Ruffner said her support of the museum and festival helps to underscore the importance of Exeter, which she described as “a tasteful combination of the new and the old.”

“Exeter is a special place,” she noted. “Any town is going to evolve and that’s a necessary development, but we've been able to retain a lot of historical charm that makes us so unique. I think we can continue to grow in ways that the community desires, while still keeping that balance.”

Bray agrees and added, “I look forward to working with Florence and Ruffner Real Estate as a valued Business Partner to continue this growth.”

To learn more about Ruffner Real Estate, visit www.ruffner-re.com. To learn more about the museum, or to purchase tickets for Saturday’s American Independence Festival, visit www.independencemuseum.org.