UPCOMING PROGRAMS
Upcoming Programs
2024 Summer Program Series
Every summer the Society hosts a series of programs that bring history to Gilmanton. The topics may vary from individuals and groups who made a difference, to unusual books related to the region and its history. The Society also presents at least one program annually that focuses on an aspect of Gilmanton’s history. Although this series is free, the Society welcomes donations to assist with program costs, maintenance of the Museum and the continuing work on retaining Gilmanton history.
Please click here to read/download The Society’s 2024 brochure (PDF format).
Please note: For current updates please visit us on our Facebook Page or email us at info@gilmantonhistoricalsociety.org.
Late in Arriving – How Electricity Changed Rural New Hampshire Life
When: Tuesday, May 28rd, 6:30PM
Where: Old Town Hall, Gilmanton Iron Works
Imagine a New Hampshire town where some people enjoyed lighting at the flick of a switch and heat controlled by a thermostat – while others still lived with kerosene lamps and wood stoves. During the early 1900s larger New Hampshire communities enjoyed electric power while those in rural areas lived lives little changed from the 1800s. Steve Taylor will tell us how electricity finally came to rural NH and how it changed people’s lives.
The Hidden History of Lake Winnipesaukee
When: Tuesday, June 25th, 6:30PM
Where: Old Town Hall, Gilmanton Iron Works
Glenn Knoblock will present many little known aspects abou the history of the “Big Lake,” including stories about towns bordering the lake and settlements on some of the islands. These fascinating and enlightening bits of history will change forever how you look at Lake Winnipesaukee.
Third Annual Farm & Flax Day
When: Saturday, July 27th, 10am-3:00pm (rain date Sunday, July 28th)
Where: Farm Museum at Tom Howe Conservation Area, 245 Meetinghouse Road
Explore the expansive beauty of the Howe Conservation Area. Hike the Urner Trail to Meetinghouse Pond or take a trip back in time to learn about Gilmanton’s agricultural heritage. During colonial times, flax was grown at this site. The presence of a retting pond reveals its history. This rare intact feature is the centerpiece of our flax program. Members of the flax and linen community will demonstrate the processing of flax to linen as it was done 200 years ago. We hope you’ll join us. Come see land and historic conservation at its best!
Buzzell Cemetery Walking Tour
When: Tuesday, August 27th, 6:00PM (rain date , Wednesday, August 23rd)
Where: Shellcamp Road (off Allens Mill Road)
Located on Shellcamp Road (off Allens Mill Road), this historic cemetery is the final resting place of many early residents of that part of Gilmanton. GHS President John Dickey will lead this tour to learn about the lives of some notable folks buried there. The cemetery grounds are fairly level, but wear good walking shoes.
Barnyard Tales
When: Tuesday, September 24th, 6:30PM
Where: Old Town Hall, Gilmanton Iron Works
Iconic old New Hampshire barns are rapidly becoming a thing of the past as they get torn down, catch fire, or deteriorate. Mark Stevens of Canterbury was part of a group several years ago that set out to document prominent local barns before they disappeared. On the way, the group discovered fascinating tales about many barns tht also had to be documented and preserved. Come hear Mark tell these interesting stories.
