UPCOMING PROGRAMS
Upcoming Programs
2026 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 2026 brochure (PDF format).
Please note: For current updates please visit us on our Facebook Page or email us at info@gilmantonhistoricalsociety.org.
The Mammoth Road: New Hampshire Folk Tales as an Avenue to Local History and Culture
When: Wednesday, May 27th at 6:30pm
Where: Old Town Hall, Gilmanton Iron Works
Presenter: Erin Moulton
Folk tales are passed from one generation to another, embellished by time and teller: “Ethan Crawford was as tall as Mount Washington. He could carry at least seven men on his back!” Yet, when we look at folk tales, the people who compiled them and the location from which they spring, we can access history in a new and entertaining way. Join us to hear and explore folk tales collected by the New Hampshire Women’s Federation (1932) and dig into local resources in search of truths. Was it tall tale or town history?
Redcoats & Rebels: New Hampshire and the American Revolution
When: Friday, June 26th 6:30 Celebrating our 250th!
Where: Old Town Hall, Gilmanton Iron Works
Presenter: Mary Adams
New Hampshire often gets overlooked in the narrative of the American Revolution, overshadowed by its noisy neighbor to the south. Nowadays, few people know about Paul Revere’s first ride, which was to Portsmouth in December 1774 to warn the patriots that the British were coming to reinforce Fort William and Mary, five months before the Redcoats marched on Concord and Lexington. Nor do they know that two-thirds of the troops at the Battle of Bunker Hill were from New Hampshire. Most people are also unaware that New Hampshire’s Provincial Congress adopted the first state constitution in January 1776, making no mention of royal authority and essentially declaring independence from Great Britain six months before anyone else. And this is just the beginning of New Hampshire’s revolutionary story.
5th Annual Farm Day & Flax-Daughter’s of Liberty Spinning Bee
When: Saturday, July 25th (rain date July 26) 10am-3pm Celebrating our 250th!
Where: Farm Museum at Tom Howe Conservation Area, 245 Meetinghouse Road
During Colonial times, flax was grown and processed at this site. Come see members of the Flax & Linen Community demonstrate the processing of flax as it was done over 200 years ago. To honor the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we will host a spinning bee in the manner of the Daughters of Liberty. To join the Spinning Bee, click here to register. This event is generously Sponsored by ArborTech.
The Beginner’s Guide to Cemetery Sleuthing
When: Wednesday, August 26th at 6:30PM
Where: Old Town Hall, Gilmanton Iron Works
Presenter: Erin Moulton
Your local cemetery is a time capsule. Each headstone is plastered with clues about the deceased, those who once walked where you walk now. A simple step through the hallowed gates can bring you on an adventure to explore symbolism, workmanship, and local history. Join Erin E. Moulton as we learn the meaning behind cemetery iconography, abbreviations, epitaphs, and more.
Tour of Hillside Cemetery
When: Saturday, September 19th at 2pm
Where: Edgerly Road, Gilmanton Iron Works
Presenter: Gilmanton Historical Society Board members
Gilmanton Historical Society will lead a walking tour of the Hillside Cemetery. Located on Edgerly Rd in the Iron Works, this cemetery is the resting place of many early citizens. The tour will visit the graves of folks who played important roles in the history of the Town. Period photos will be available to add additional interest to the tour.
Edgar Allan Poe’s The Raven & More
When: Friday, October 30th at 6:30pm
Where: Old Town Hall, Gilmanton Iron Works
Presenter: Jeffrey Zygmont
Hear a dramatic recital of Edgar Allan Poe’s most famous poem, The Raven – the perfect work of American art to put you in a spooky mood. With props to enhance the suspenseful, supernatural tone of the poem, Jeffrey Zygmont (a poet himself) delivers the recital with commentary to help you understand and enjoy The Raven’s haunting aspects. He also gives a brief summary of Poe’s life and significance. The program also includes a recital with commentary of Poe’s poem The Bells.
