2026 Events
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Nashua Historical Society Presents Declaring Independence: Then & Now
A Powerful REV250 Live Performance of the Words That Helped Shape a Nation
Nashua Historical Society invites the public to experience a unique and thought-provoking live performance event this June as part of the nationwide commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary.
On Thursday, June 4, the Society will host two performances of Declaring Independence: Then & Now at 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM at the Florence H. Speare Memorial Museum, 5 Abbott Street, Nashua, NH. This FREE public program brings the dramatic story of the Declaration of Independence to life through historic words, modern reflections, and the voices of the people who lived through extraordinary times.
In January 1776, New Hampshire became the first colony to adopt its own constitution — a bold act that helped pave the way for the Declaration of Independence just months later. Declaring Independence: Then & Now explores that revolutionary moment through a compelling blend of primary source material, costumed readers, and contemporary commentary, revealing how citizens in New Hampshire and Massachusetts communities debated the risks, hopes, and meaning of independence.
Presented by actors in period dress, the performance combines historical storytelling with an annotated reading of the Declaration itself, inviting audiences to consider both the courage of 1776 and the enduring relevance of the nation’s founding ideals today.The Nashua performances are part of a larger series of 15 community presentations taking place across the Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area during the spring and summer of 2026 in honor of the REV250 commemoration. “We are proud to bring this important program to Nashua,” says Paula Lochhead, the committee chairperson. “New Hampshire played a critical role in the movement toward independence, and this performance offers audiences a meaningful opportunity to connect with that history in a vivid and personal way.”
The Florence H. Speare Memorial Museum is fully accessible, air-conditioned, and comfortable for summer audiences. Admission is FREE and open to the public. Questions? 603-883-0015 Declaring Independence: Then & Now. Thursday, June 4, 2026. Speare Museum, 5 Abbott St., Nashua, NH 03064Space is limited, and advance registration is required. Please sign up for one of two performances:
5:00 PM Performance:
https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/mFmPSoFWGw7835HWJi-eGw
7:00 PM Performance: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/fz4hTUq2RtQDb_mXv4oOoA
Celebrate REV250 with the Nashua Historical Society and discover how the voices of 1776 still speak to us today. #REV250 #nashuahistory #Nashua #NHHistory
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The Nashua Historical Society
is a Blue Star Museum
Blue Star Museums is a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, in collaboration with the Department of Defense and museums across America, offering free admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve.
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The 2025 program has been extended through 2026 in honor of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution (REV250). Normally the Blue Star program begins on Armed Forces Day,
and runs through Labor Day.
The Humane Society for Greater Nashua
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On view at Nashua City Hall​
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The current exhibit is about the history of the Humane Society for Greater Nashua and the pet cemetery located there. Check out the exhibit for history, fun facts, and Humane Society events!
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Please visit The Nashua Historical Society’s changing exhibit case at Nashua’s City Hall!
The Abbot-Spalding House Museum is located at 1 Nashville Street, Nashua, New Hampshire.
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The Nashua Historical Society, Florence H. Speare Memorial Museum is located at 5 Abbott Street, Nashua, New Hampshire.
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Parking for both museums is available behind the Speare Museum or on the street.
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For more information, contact The Nashua Historical Society at 603-883-0015 or nashuahistorical@comcast.net