Our Museums

The Wigwam and Chapel Museums are both chock full of interesting artifacts relating to Amherst. 

Museum Hours:   Saturday, June 7, 2008, 1 to 4 p.m.

                                              and

                            Thursdays,  June 19, 2008 through September 11, 2008, 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

                            (To coincide with the Farmer's Market on the Village Green)

Group Tours:        Please contact Susan Fischer at (603) 672-9831 to arrange tours for your

                                  group. Tours can be conducted beginning June 16 through October 10, 2008.

The museums are also opened during certain town events (such as the Fourth of July and Antiques on the Green), and by special request.  Lack of heating systems in these buildings precludes them from being opened year-round.

Museum admission is free, although financial donations are always welcome.

The Wigwam

Located on the corner of Middle and Cross Streets

Built in 1839 as a Methodist chapel, it earned it’s nickname, “The Wigwam,” in 1879 when the Methodist Society remodeled the building and raised the roof. Inside you can see the ceiling painted by itinerate Italians that is reminiscent of designs seen in Italy.

After the Methodists left the building to join with the Milford Methodist Church, it passed through many hands and served a multitude of purposes – dance hall, basketball court and town garage, to name but a few. It was purchased by our Society in 1969 and underwent a significant restoration in 1976. Now home to some of our larger artifacts, like our restored Concord Coach and the old jailhouse door, we certainly think it’s worth a visit!

The Chapel

Located on the corner of Middle and Church Streets

The Congregational Church built the Chapel (aka the Annex) in 1858 to hold their winter services, as the smaller building was much easier to heat.  Sold first to the town in 1927, and then to the School District, it too has seen a variety of uses, most notably additional classroom space for a growing Brick School student population. 

Today visitors will find a wide array of historical memorabilia relating to Amherst including maps, photos, scrapbooks, clothing and furniture.  Plan to spend some time exploring its treasures!