NASHUA – The Nashua Historical Society invites residents to experience a unique and thought-provoking live performance event this June as part of the nationwide commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary.

On June 4, the society will host two performances of Declaring Independence: Then & Now at 5 and 7 p.m. at the Florence H. Speare Memorial Museum, 5 Abbott St. 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 those 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,” said Paula Lochhead, the committee chairwoman. “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 Speare Museum is fully accessible, air-conditioned and comfortable for summer audiences.

Space is limited and advance registration is required. Please sign up for one of two performances:

5 p.m. Performance:

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7 p.m. Performance:

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