Modern reproduction of N.C. Wyeth (1862-1948), Captain John Paul Jones (1938). Portsmouth Historical Society; The James C. and Judith R. Bradford Collection.
Celebrate the anniversary of one of the most important battles of the American Revolutionary War: Captain John Paul Jones and the Ranger versus the HMS Drakein the North Channel naval duel.
Sunday, April 24 • 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
John Paul Jones House, 43 Middle Street
We will celebrate how John Paul Jones as captain of the Ranger changed the course of the American Revolutionary War in April, 1778. New Hampshire has always been noted for building wonderful ships, including the USS Ranger, built in Portsmouth. John Paul Jones stayed in the house at 43 Middle Street while the Ranger was being built. In April 1778, Jones, in command of the Ranger, attacked Whitehaven, England; attempted to kidnap the Earl of Selkirk; and, on April 24, 1778, defeated HMS Drake off the western coast of Great Britain.
Attendees will include Rear Admiral Samuel J. Cox, USN (Ret.), Portsmouth Mayor Deaglan McEachern, members of City Council, and Dr. James Bliss, PhD, a noted expert on John Paul Jones.
Chef James Haller will be here to give a brief presentation and to sign his new book, At the End of Ceres Street: A Chef’s Salute to Portsmouth, New Hampshire on Thursday, November 18th, from 5:30 pm to 7pm. Come meet the man himself and get your copy of the book signed by the author!
Please note that masks are required for everyone at Portsmouth Historical Society. For large, in-person events such as these, we request all guests provide either proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test from the last 48 hours.
Join us for a free gallery tour with the abstract painters of “Abstracting the Seacoast!” This Friday from 12:00 to 12:30, Dustan Knight and Peter Cady will be in the gallery to talk about their work and the creative process.
No reservations necessary, just stop on by!
Above: Peter Cady, Earlier, Oil on canvas. Left: Dustan Knight, Sunset—Ceres Street, Acrylic.
Art ‘Round Town Friday Evening!
Above: Michael Sterling, Peter Coren demonstrates woodworking techniques at the Boatshop at Strawbery Banke, Portsmouth. June 01, 2019. Below, Kenneth R. Goldman, US Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA) campaigns in the New Hampshire presidential primary at South Church in Portsmouth. February 18, 2019
Are there teenagers in your life? Reach out and encourage their creativity! Enter the Teen/Teen Group category for the 31st Annual Gingerbread House and Exhibition. Here’s a shot of last year’s winning teen creation, Rustic Retreat, by Frank and Ariana!
J. Dennis Robinson will be here to sign copies of his new, thrilling murder mystery that takes place in Portsmouth (and features our very own John Paul Jones House!) Can’t make it? Get your copy at the online Museum Shop.
We’ll also be announcing the winners of this year’s Young Writer’s Contest and handing out the fabulous prizes!
John Paul Jones House Last Day of the Season: Monday, October 11
The leaves are turning, and it’s time to close up for the season! The John Paul Jones House will be closed to the public after Monday, October 11, with one exception. We will be open on the afternoon of Veterans Day to honor those who dedicate themselves to the service of their country.
Gingerbread is Coming Soon!
Fall is here, and that means we’re gearing up for the sweet extravaganza that is the annual Gingerbread House Contest & Exhibition!
This year’s theme is all about New Hampshire. What’s your favorite 603 thing? Of course, we’ll be doing the raffles, scavenger hunts, and awards, so start thinking about your entry today!
Many of you received postcards for a end-of-season “Members Only” reception. Shortly after mailing, the COVID situation changed, and we had to adjust our expectations for this event. We felt it was important to proceed with caution by limiting attendance and not serving any food. However, because we couldn’t have the celebration we hoped for, we are also going to broadcast the lecture by Zoom!
Members: Check inbox your soon for a link to get tickets to a virtual lecture!
Join us for a toast to celebrate the concluding days of our extraordinary summer exhibitions, “Twilight of American Impressionism” and “Working Waterfronts” and to inaugurate the William & Arlene Brewster Lecture Series!
September 9, 2021 5:30pm Lecture by guest curator William Brewster Jr.
Support for this event is provided by Lynne Joyce of Tate & Foss Sotheby’s International Realty.
Young Writers Contest Extended!
The Young Writers Contest has been extended! Submissions are now due by midnight on Monday, September 13. We’ve got some great prizes to offer from our sponsors, Summer Sessions and Flatbread Co!
The Chamber is a wonderful resource for all greater Portsmouth businesses, and it was fun to get to see some of our fellow members and have a cup of coffee with them. Thanks for stopping by!
