moderate
3–5 hours
Good physical fitness required for repeated manual labor like chopping and carrying wood.
Step into colonial New England at the Working in the 18th Century Mini Camp in Exeter, NH. Engage in authentic 1700s tasks and discover the daily grit of America’s early settlers in a rich outdoor setting.
Thursday, July 18
Step back in time to colonial Exeter, where you can explore the diverse jobs of the era. Experience life as a sailor, merchant, or farmer, and engage in trading and bartering at the market. Dress in period clothing and discover the roles of women and children in this vibrant community.
Sailors, merchants, farmers, shopkeepers and tavern keepers are just a few of the jobs of colonial Exeter you will discover. What jobs were available to women? Did children help out with the family business? Try your hand at a colonial trade or two, sell goods to your neighbors and barter and trade at the market, all while wearing colonial clothing.
Wear durable clothes and closed-toe shoes suitable for chopping wood and other hands-on activities.
Stay hydrated as many tasks are physically demanding, especially during warmer months.
Prepare for outdoor work rain or shine—layers and waterproof gear are recommended.
Arriving before the scheduled start ensures you get full orientation and maximize your experience.
Exeter was a key town in the formation of New Hampshire’s state government during the Revolution, with the American Independence Museum honoring this legacy.
The Mini Camp promotes low-impact, sustainable practices maintaining the historical integrity and local environment by limiting visitor group sizes and emphasizing responsible outdoor stewardship.
Protect your hands while handling tools and wood in cooler spring weather.
spring specific
Keep dry and comfortable during summer showers or dew-filled mornings.
summer specific
Stay warm as temperatures drop and mornings get chilly.
fall specific
Though winter visits are rare, essential for cold weather when available.
winter specific