Historical Society of Cheshire County

06/20/2026

You don't just learn history here—you stand on it.

Step into 12,000+ years of history at the Wyman Tavern this summer. "Grounded in History" is an immersive outdoor experience that uses archaeology, archival research, and architectural analysis to tell the story of the Indigenous peoples, frontier settlers, revolutionaries, and families who shaped this remarkable site. Follow interpretive banners through the tavern yard to uncover the evidence of daily life across centuries—from German pottery of the 1730s to the 29 men who departed for Lexington and Concord in 1775, to the vanished barns and mysterious structures waiting to be rediscovered. Interactive QR codes invite you to become part of the story and support the preservation of Keene's oldest horse shed, the Wyman Tavern Carriage Sheds.

Free | Open June–August during regular hours at 339 Main Street.

"Grounded in History" complements the Historical Society's indoor exhibition “Beyond the Battlefield: Cheshire County in the Revolutionary Period”, on view at HSCC headquarters (246 Main Street) through July. Together, these exhibitions mark 2026's commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American Independence and celebrate the region's pivotal role in the nation's founding.

The Historical Society of Cheshire County is grateful to the sponsors of its 2026 Revolutionary War era programming theme: Fenton Family Dealerships, Savings Bank of Walpole, Putnam Foundation, The Kingsbury Fund, Monadnock250 Committee, C&S Wholesale Grocers, Historic Harrisville, Ingram Construction, Douglas Toys, Bensonwood, Mascoma Bank, and The Melanson Co. Their generous support makes exhibitions, public programming, and preservation work possible.

06/19/2026

What happened when a 14-year old Black private in the Revolutionary War was forced to flee Fort Ticonderoga in July of 1777?

Find out by visiting our exhibit "Beyond the Battlefield: Cheshire County, NH, in the Revolutionary Period." at the Historical Society of Cheshire County, 246 Main Street, Keene. We're open Saturday, June 20 from 9am - 12pm as well as every Tues 10-4, Wed 10-6, Thurs 10-4 and Fri 10-4.

The exhibit is free to the public. While you're here, check out our Museum Store for Revolutionary War related books. Sponsored by Fenton Family Dealerships, Putnam Foundation, C&S Grocers, Harrisville Design, Ingram Construction Corp., Douglas Toy, Monadnock 250, Mascoma Bank, The Melanson Company, and Bensonwood.

06/17/2026

Congratulations to our Director of Education, Michelle Walker and the Leadership Monadnock Class of 2026! These individuals have successfully completed an immersive, nine-month journey of experiential learning, civic engagement, and community-building across the Monadnock Region.

06/16/2026

A moment in local history: Temperance intolerance, by Alan F. Rumrill

During the 1840s there was a strong temperance movement in southwest New Hampshire. Numerous local temperance societies were formed whose members spoke on the evils of liquor and abstained from

06/15/2026

NH Chronicle's Sean McDonald visited the Wyman Tavern Museum for a tour with Becky Barton, Registrar & Tavern Guide and Jennifer Carroll, Executive Director. We will keep you posted when the episode will air.

06/14/2026

New Hampshire’s role in the American Revolution has not always been at the forefront of our national story. No battles were fought on New Hampshire soil, but the contributions made by the men and women of New Hampshire made a significant difference in the struggle for independence. The Historical Society of Cheshire County is happy to share research on Cheshire County’s participation in the war.

Visit our website to learn more: https://hsccnh.org/revolutionary-war-research/

06/13/2026

How did people live, work, and play in the 1700s? Our Hands-on History Day Camps and Family Drop-In programs offer the opportunity for children entering grades 3-5 and families to interact with history! These experiences, led by Museum Educators, will demonstrate the history and techniques of colonial era daily life including weaving, candle and soap making, food preparation, games, and more. At the end of each session, you will take home materials to continue the fun!

Historical Society of Cheshire County members will receive discounts off your registration! Visit our website at www.hsccnh.org for registration information.

This program has been generously sponsored by The Putnam Foundation, The Kingsbury Fund and Fenton Family Dealerships.

06/12/2026

What happened when this Nelson resident fought against his Loyalist neighbor during the Battle of Bennington? Find out by visiting our exhibit "Beyond the Battlefield: Cheshire County, NH, in the Revolutionary Period." at the Historical Society of Cheshire County, 246 Main Street, Keene. We're open Saturday, May 16 from 9am - 12pm as well as every Tues 10-4, Wed 10-6, Thurs 10-4 and Fri 10-4.
The exhibit is free to the public. While you're here, check out our Museum Store for Revolutionary War related books. Sponsored by Fenton Family Dealerships, Putnam Foundation, C&S Grocers, Harrisville Design, Ingram Construction Corp., Douglas Toy, Monadnock 250, Mascoma Bank, The Melanson Company, and Bensonwood.

06/10/2026

🎉 Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who supported the Historical Society of Cheshire County during NH Gives. Your generosity helps us preserve local history, share community stories, and inspire connections across generations.

We are deeply grateful for your support—it truly makes a difference. We look forward to welcoming you to the Historical Society this summer!

That additional line sounds good, and adding the direct link to our giving page: https://www.nhgives.org/organization/historical-society-of-cheshire-county/welcome