Onsite Educational Programs
The New Hampshire Political Library, in partnership with the Pierce Brigade, offers tours and educational programming for students at President Pierce’s family home, the Pierce Manse, in Concord, New Hampshire.
Student programs offer opportunities for students to learn about:
- President Franklin Pierce and his political accomplishments
- Domestic life in Concord in the mid 19th century
- New Hampshire’s political history and the First-in-the-Nation Presidential Primary
Download our student program brochure here. To schedule a program, please call (603) 225-4555.
These programs directly address US/ NH History expectations within the NH Curriculum Framework.
“This should be part of all New Hampshire students’ 4th grade curriculum—right up there with the State Capitol!” —St. John Regional School, Concord
ONSITE STUDENT PROGRAMS AT THE PIERCE MANSE
CORE SCHOOL PROGRAM:
Typical school tours last one hour and incorporate elements of both program topics.
New Hampshire and the Presidency: The Life and Times of Franklin Pierce
Through a guided tour of his home, learn about Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States and the only New Hampshire resident to be elected to the White House. Learn about his military service, his involvement in state and national politics before his election to President, and his Presidential accomplishments.
Life of an American Family in the 1840's
Take a step back in time with a visit to the historic home of New Hampshire’s only President, Franklin Pierce and his family. The Pierce family occupied this 19th century Greek Revival home from 1842-1848. Through exhibits, hand on objects, visual clues and guided tours of the historic home, students will learn about the domestic life of this pre-Civil War American family.
“The students were thrilled to ‘step back’ into Franklin Pierce’s life. Seeing the different rooms and artifacts along with the guide’s information, made it so real. Trying on Franklin Pierce’s coat, seeing and learning how the fireplace was such an important center in the home, the utensils/ tools used by the family (toaster, book jack, bed warmer, foot warmer, iron) all made the experience very real and exciting for the children—for all of us!”
—New Durham Elementary
ADDITIONAL SCHOOL PROGRAMS:
For larger groups or classes wishing to spend more time at the Pierce Manse, one or both of these one hour activities can be added to the standard guided tour of the Manse.
Old North CemeteryExtend your visit to the Manse with a guided walking tour and scavenger hunt in Concord’s first cemetery, the Old North Cemetery, and the final resting place of President Pierce, his wife and two sons.
“The scavenger hunt was a bit hit. They all liked the idea of using a map.”
—Cavalry Christian School, Derry
The Primary Experience
New Hampshire has a rich political tradition that dates all the way back to colonial days and our First-in-the-Nation Presidential Primary is an outgrowth of New Hampshire’s strong sense of civic duty. This film and interactive activity teaches students about New Hampshire's unique role in presidential politics and encourages their civic participation.
“It was educational and fun—perfect! Getting up and moving, and having the students look for something in the video with the matching game kept them listening!” —Peter Woodbury Elementary, Bedford
For more teacher comments about student programs at the Pierce Manse
click here.
Download the companion curriculum for "The Primary Experience" DVD here. (
The DVD is also available in NH middle school libraries or you may contact the NH Political Library to find out how to obtain a copy. )
ADDITIONAL FEATURES OF THE PIERCE MANSE
Pierce Exhibit Gallery
This permanent exhibit space highlights President Pierce's life, rise through politics and legacy through artifacts, a short educational film and text panels.
Political Gallery
Any visit to the Pierce Manse in Concord, NH is enhanced by glimpsing into the political history of the state in the New Hampshire Political Library Gallery. View a selection of the Library’s collection of election campaign papers and memorabilia from over half a century of the state’s political history.
Indoor and outdoor space is available onsite for lunch and/or snack.
For more information on planning your visit please click here.