2019 Featured Exhibit

 “Evolving: Out with the old, In with the New”

Items from our Portsmouth Historical Society collection are contrasted with their contemporary counterparts. Imagine swimming in a woolen bathing suit that covers you from neck to knees versus a lightweight two piece. Think of ironing shirts with a heavy metal object weighing about 5-9 pounds heated on a fire or stove called Sadirons. Compare that to a modern iron that works on electricity. Read about measles in a medical book published in 1841 and another published in 1967. Symptoms are the same but the modern-day book does not include remedies for horses. Navigating after dark was more challenging carrying a candle instead of a flashlight. Picture a small lamp that would be lit and attached to working caps next to a battery operated head lamp. Some of us probably remember clamp-on roller skates but clamp-on wooden ice skates? Then there are objects that are the same — children’s games that look a little different but are easily recognizable. Do you remember tin gas cans? Does a metal hot water bottle hold appeal? View numerous items in everyday use that continue to perform the same function but in a different form. “There is Nothing New Under the Sun”

ALSO “Portsmouth’s Farm Heritage”

Located in Old Town Hall is a comprehensive exhibit of the history of farming in Portsmouth beginning with Native American “Three Sisters”, progressing through the settlers small plots, large farms, gentleman’s farms and on to more diverse owners. Farming has been Portsmouth’s most important industry for much of its history from seed farms to peach and apple orchards to corn, potatoes, and vegetables to dairy. At one time, there were a number of working wind mills where wheat/corn could be ground. Gloria and Richard Schmidt have created a varied and interesting display of farming which once occupied the majority of our town’s landscape. Their display contains tools, farm implements and reminiscences of some of the farmers themselves. Share a fascinating look at Portsmouth’s past from a special and unique perspective.