The Freedom and Effingham Historical Societies have jointly developed two new unique and exciting exhibits that feature the industries, heritage, and events of “The Falls”, opening May 25, 2024. Please visit the Freedom Historical Society Museum and the Effingham Historical Society Museum as we take visitors on a stroll through complementary ,museum displays that tell the stories of the historic Town of Effingham and the dynamic events of the past that created the Town of Freedom

The land that is now the towns of Effingham and Freedom, NH, is blessed with rolling hills, forests, and the Ossipee River. It was utilized in multiple ways by its indigenous population, early settlers, as well as today’s residents. The great Ossipee River served as a principal “highway” and source of food for the Abenaki Tribes. For European settlers, the Ossipee River also provided a transportation corridor for the timber industry and furnished waterpower for early mills. At the turn of the 20th Century, the natural resources of the Ossipee Lake system attracted tourists and created an increase in summer residents. Camping, seasonal homes, water sports, hunting, and fishing became the driver of the local economy. The section of the Ossipee River from where it leaves the outflow dam and travels to the Maine border is the boundary line between Effingham and Freedom.

This year, the Freedom Historical Society and the Effingham Historical Society are joining together to develop complimentary exhibits that highlight the common industries and heritage of “The Falls” (AKA the “village” of Effingham Falls; also known as the “Lower Village” by “Freedomites”). These two new exhibits will feature the history of people, places and events of Effingham Falls through photographs, artifacts, new articles, maps and research completed by volunteers from both Historical Societies.

Early history shows that “village” families such as the Parsons, Nasons, Thurstons, Bradburys, Cuttings, and Stokes, participated in their social and business activities on both sides of the river. Additionally, there will be an exhibit display at the Freedom Historical Society featuring information about early indigenous people inhabiting this area along the Ossipee River before Europeans arrived.

Brandon Buttrick, Co-President of the Freedom Historical Society, emphasizes that this exhibit partnership demonstrates a strong working relationship between the two local volunteer historical societies. Visitors will have the opportunity to “walk through the common threads” that united the people and industries of the village called Effingham Falls. By having the exhibit in two locations, we can greatly increase the exposure of this important local history and bring more attention to our joint research efforts.

Opening day for this interesting and informative exhibit on Effingham Falls is on May 25 from 10 AM to 2 PM at the Freedom Historical Society at 28 Old Portland Road, Freedom, NH, and at the Effingham Historical Society at 1014 Province Lake Rd, Effingham, NH. After the launch, these two exhibits will be open every Wednesday from 10 AM to Noon and every Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM.