Portsmouth’s Strawbery Banke – New Hampshire’s Living Museum
Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, offers a unique glimpse into the past. This living museum showcases over 300 years of history through its preserved buildings, gardens, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can wander through restored homes, meet costumed interpreters, and even try their hand at traditional crafts. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a fun day out, Strawbery Banke has something for everyone. Kids will love the hands-on activities, while adults can appreciate the rich historical context. Don't miss the seasonal events like the Candlelight Stroll or the Ice Skating Rink in winter.
Discovering Strawbery Banke Museum
Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, offers a unique glimpse into the past. This living museum spans over 10 acres, showcasing centuries of history through restored buildings, gardens, and interactive exhibits. Let's explore some of the must-see spots within this historical treasure.
Historic Homes
Wandering through Strawbery Banke, you'll encounter a variety of historic homes, each telling its own story. These homes span different eras, reflecting the evolution of the community.
Sherburne House (1695): One of the oldest structures, this house offers insight into early colonial life. The interior features period furnishings and artifacts.
Goodwin Mansion (1811): This elegant home belonged to Ichabod Goodwin, a former governor of New Hampshire. The mansion showcases Victorian-era decor and provides a glimpse into the life of a prominent 19th-century family.
Shapiro House (1919): Experience the life of Jewish immigrants in the early 20th century. The Shapiro House is furnished to reflect the daily life of the Shapiro family, who settled in Portsmouth after fleeing Eastern Europe.
Interactive Exhibits
Strawbery Banke isn't just about looking at old buildings. The museum offers interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages.
Horticultural Center: Learn about historical gardening practices and heirloom plants. The center includes a greenhouse, gardens, and educational programs.
Candle Making: Try your hand at traditional candle making. This hands-on activity teaches about the importance of candles in colonial times.
Blacksmith Shop: Watch a blacksmith at work, crafting tools and other items using traditional methods. This exhibit demonstrates the skills and craftsmanship of early American blacksmiths.
Seasonal Events
Throughout the year, Strawbery Banke hosts a variety of seasonal events that bring history to life in exciting ways.
Candlelight Stroll: During the holiday season, the museum transforms into a winter wonderland. Stroll through the decorated homes and enjoy live music, performances, and festive activities.
Independence Day Celebration: Celebrate the Fourth of July with historical reenactments, traditional games, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Ice Skating at Puddle Dock Pond: In the winter, visitors can enjoy ice skating on a picturesque outdoor rink. The rink is open to the public and offers a charming winter activity for all ages.
Educational Programs
Strawbery Banke offers a range of educational programs designed to engage students and visitors in hands-on learning experiences.
School Programs: The museum provides tailored programs for school groups, covering topics such as colonial history, immigration, and daily life in different eras.
Summer Camps: Kids can immerse themselves in history through summer camps that include activities like archaeology, crafts, and historical reenactments.
Workshops and Lectures: Throughout the year, the museum hosts workshops and lectures on various historical topics, providing deeper insights into the past.
Gardens and Landscapes
The museum's gardens and landscapes are as much a part of the experience as the buildings themselves. These spaces offer a peaceful retreat and a chance to learn about historical horticulture.
Herb Garden: Explore a garden filled with medicinal and culinary herbs used by early settlers. The garden is maintained using historical gardening techniques.
Victory Garden: This garden replicates the World War II-era gardens that families planted to supplement their food supply. It showcases the importance of self-sufficiency during wartime.
Orchard: Wander through the orchard, which features heirloom apple varieties. The orchard highlights the significance of fruit cultivation in early American life.
Experience History at Strawbery Banke
Portsmouth's Strawbery Banke offers a unique glimpse into New Hampshire's past. This living museum brings history to life with its preserved buildings, costumed interpreters, and engaging exhibits. Visitors can walk through centuries-old homes, watch traditional crafts being made, and even participate in seasonal events.
The museum's dedication to preserving and sharing local history makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in America's early days. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a fun, educational outing, Strawbery Banke has something for everyone.
Plan your visit today and step back in time to explore the rich heritage of Portsmouth. From colonial times to the 20th century, this museum captures the essence of New England's history in a way that's both informative and entertaining. Don't miss out on this incredible journey through time.
