Seacoast NH LGBT History Project

08/20/2026

Calling all activists and protesters! We want to hear your stories. We are working with the Portsmouth Historical Society to create a panel for their Rainbow Symposium on Wednesday Oct 21 at 6PM. Were you involved in a political movement like the 1993 Open Door City Coalition? Did you attend the protests in Hampton in 1996? Did you attend any of the marches on Washington? 1979, 1987 or 1993 or ? We'd love to hear your stories and share any pictures you may have. We'll have some current activists/protesters too. DM is here or email [email protected].

08/10/2026

Join me Sunday August 16th at 230PM for the next "Gay" Old Times tour! This is one of three chances left this year. (Sept. 20 and Oct. 18). Learn about the LGBTQ people, places and events that shaped Portsmouth. Tickets at:

Historical Walking Tours Learn why Portsmouth is the hub of the New Hampshire Seacoast! Our downtown is filled with hidden treasures. Our knowledgeable walking tour guides will introduce you to the city’s rich past and lively present—a unique mix of architecture, specialty shops, and bustling st...

07/30/2026

Be sure to check out our exhibit at Riverstones Custom Framing and Gallery in Rochester all through August. This year the focus is on the general LGBTQ History in the US and local stories with a few artifacts thrown in. We had a little help setting it up.

07/30/2026

Check out our Exhibit at Riverstones Custom Framing and Gallery. Open during Pride

Here's the schedule of events for Rochester Pride on Saturday, August 1st! We've got a great afternoon of fun planned!

In addition, the Franklin Gallery at RiverStones Custom Framing will be hosting a special LGBT exhibit, so be sure to visit the shop.

07/07/2026

On this day 42 years ago Charlie Howard was killed in Bangor Maine. Much has been written about his murder but never the complete story especially his experience growing up in Portsmouth. That's about to change. Author Mac Smith from Maine is working on a book about Charlie and he'd love to hear from locals that knew Charlie or has stories about Charlie. He can be reach at [email protected]

06/03/2026

Don't miss the special pre-pride parade "Gay" Old Times walking tour on Saturday June 20th at 10AM. Tickets at:
https://portsmouthhistory.org/walking-tours/

If you can't make it Saturday the same tour will be given on Sunday June 21 at 230PM

04/20/2026

Check out the exhibits at Stonewall National Museum in Ft Lauderdale. Specifically: Von Steuben: Architect of American Independence. He arrived in Portsmouth 250 years ago.

Through collecting, we preserve and share the history and culture of the LGBTQIA+ community and our significant contributions to society.