Museum of American Revolution | Philadelphia

Museum of the American Revolution: Detailed Overview

Location and Setting

Situated at 101 South Third Street in Philadelphia’s historic Old City district, the museum lies within walking distance of other key Revolutionary landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

The museum building is a modern structure designed to complement the surrounding historic architecture, creating a bridge between the past and present.

History and Mission

Opened in 2017, the museum was created to present a comprehensive, engaging narrative of the American Revolution beyond the usual stories of battles and leaders.

Its mission is to explore the complex causes, diverse participants, and enduring consequences of the Revolution, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for liberty and equality.

The museum focuses on telling the stories of all people involved—including soldiers, civilians, women, African Americans, Native Americans, and immigrants—to provide a more complete historical perspective.

Collections and Exhibits

The museum’s collection includes over 3,000 artifacts, such as muskets, swords, uniforms, documents, and personal belongings of Revolutionary-era figures. Many artifacts are on public display for the first time.

Permanent Exhibits

The Road to Independence

Chronicles the buildup of colonial resistance against British rule, highlighting events like the Stamp Act, Boston Tea Party, and First Continental Congress.

Explores how political ideas, protests, and grassroots activism led colonists to seek independence.

The War for Independence

Covers the Revolutionary War from 1775 to 1783, detailing major battles, military strategies, and the experiences of soldiers and civilians.

Emphasizes the hardships faced by the Continental Army, including shortages, disease, and winter encampments.

The Darkest Hour

Focuses on the difficult middle years of the war when the American cause seemed almost lost, with defeats and challenges testing the resolve of the revolutionaries.

Highlights the perseverance of leaders like George Washington and the role of foreign allies such as France.

A New Nation

Examines the post-war period, including the drafting of the Constitution, debates over governance, and the challenges of building a new country.

Considers who was included or excluded in the new republic and how those early decisions shaped American democracy.

Special Exhibitions

Banners of Liberty

Features original Revolutionary War flags, including rare regimental banners and symbols of patriotism.

Offers insight into the symbolism, craftsmanship, and meaning behind these historic flags.

Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia

Highlights the Forten family, a prominent African American family deeply involved in abolition, civil rights, and the Revolutionary cause.

Illustrates the contributions and struggles of Black Americans during and after the Revolution.

Interactive and Immersive Experiences

Battlefield Theater

An immersive 15-minute theater experience simulating a Revolutionary War battle, complete with sound effects like musket fire, smoke, and floor vibrations to place visitors in the midst of the conflict.

Revolution Place

A hands-on family discovery center where children can engage with interactive exhibits that recreate 18th-century Philadelphia, encouraging learning through play.

Daily Films and Presentations

The museum screens documentaries and short films covering themes like the causes of the Revolution, daily life during the war, and the legacy of American independence.

Education and Public Programs

The museum offers extensive programming including lectures, workshops, book talks, and special events that deepen visitors' understanding of Revolutionary history.

It hosts school field trips, teacher training, and family programs designed to engage diverse audiences and foster historical literacy.

Special events commemorate key anniversaries and celebrate American heritage with reenactments, panel discussions, and community gatherings.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

Fully accessible to visitors with mobility challenges, with ramps, elevators, and manual wheelchairs available for loan.

Certified Autism Center offering sensory-friendly resources such as quiet spaces, noise-canceling headphones, and sensory guides.

Touch tours and descriptive audio are available for visitors with visual impairments.

Visitor Information

Hours: Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

Admission: Adult tickets around $25; discounts for seniors, students, military, youth; free for children under 5 and museum members.

Tickets: Valid for two consecutive days, encouraging thorough exploration at a comfortable pace.

No on-site parking, but multiple nearby garages and easy public transit access (SEPTA, PATCO, regional rail).

Summary

The Museum of the American Revolution offers an in-depth, nuanced exploration of America’s founding era through rich artifacts, engaging exhibits, and immersive experiences. It highlights the diverse people and complex events that shaped the Revolution and the new nation, fostering a deeper understanding of American history and its ongoing relevance.