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{{Infobox Museum
{{Infobox Museum
| name = Museum of the American Revolution
| name = Museum of the American Revolution
| image =
| image_caption = Museum of the American Revolution in Old City
| type = History museum
| type = History museum
| address = 101 S 3rd Street
| address = 101 South Third Street
| neighborhood = Old City
| neighborhood = Old City
| coordinates = 39.9479,-75.1466
| phone = (215) 253-6731
| phone = (215) 253-6731
| website = https://amrevmuseum.org
| website = https://www.amrevmuseum.org
| established = 2017
| established = 2017
| collection_size = 3,000+ objects
| founder = H.F. "Gerry" Lenfest (primary donor)
| annual_visitors = 500,000+
| director = R. Scott Stephenson
| admission = $24 adults, $17 children
| collections = Revolutionary War artifacts
| hours = Daily 10am-5pm
| visitors = 350,000+ annually
| public_transit = 2nd Street Station (MFL), SEPTA buses
| hours = Daily 10 AM - 5 PM
| architect = Robert A.M. Stern Architects
}}
}}


The '''Museum of the American Revolution''' is a history museum in [[Old City]], Philadelphia, dedicated to telling the story of the American Revolution through immersive exhibits and rare artifacts. Opened in 2017, the museum's centerpiece is George Washington's actual headquarters tent, used throughout the Revolutionary War.<ref name="amrev">{{cite web |url=https://amrevmuseum.org |title=Museum of the American Revolution |publisher=Museum of the American Revolution |access-date=December 23, 2025}}</ref>
'''The Museum of the American Revolution''' is a history museum located in [[Old City, Philadelphia|Old City]], dedicated to telling the story of the American Revolution and its ongoing relevance. Opened in '''April 2017''', the museum houses an extraordinary collection of Revolutionary War artifacts, including '''George Washington's headquarters tent'''—the actual tent from which Washington commanded the Continental Army throughout the war.<ref name="amrev">{{cite web |url=https://www.amrevmuseum.org/about |title=About the Museum |publisher=Museum of the American Revolution |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>
 
The museum's state-of-the-art galleries use immersive experiences, theatrical presentations, and rare artifacts to explore the Revolutionary era from multiple perspectives, including those of enslaved people, Native Americans, women, and ordinary citizens who experienced the tumult of revolution. Located just steps from [[Independence Hall]] and other historic sites, the museum provides essential context for understanding the birth of the United States.<ref name="visit">{{cite web |url=https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/museum-of-the-american-revolution/ |title=Museum of the American Revolution |publisher=Visit Philadelphia |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==


The museum grew from a decades-long effort to create a world-class institution telling the Revolution's story in Philadelphia, where independence was declared. The collection originated with the Valley Forge Historical Society, which held Washington's tent.
=== Origins ===
 
The museum grew from the collections of the '''Valley Forge Historical Society''', which had preserved Revolutionary War artifacts for over a century. Philadelphia philanthropist '''H.F. "Gerry" Lenfest''' provided the lead gift to create a world-class museum in the heart of historic Philadelphia.


The $150 million museum opened on April 19, 2017—the anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord—in a purpose-built facility designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects.
=== The Building ===


== Exhibits ==
The museum building was designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects and opened on '''April 19, 2017'''—the 242nd anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The Georgian Revival-style building was designed to complement the surrounding historic architecture of Old City.


=== Permanent Galleries ===
=== Location ===


The museum's core exhibition spans multiple galleries:
The museum sits on land with Revolutionary-era significance:
* Site of the former '''Pemberton House'''
* Near the location of Carpenters' Hall (First Continental Congress)
* Steps from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
* Heart of the most historic square mile in America


* '''Revolution Place''' — Immersive room-scale recreations
== Exhibits ==
* '''The Coming Revolution*** — Colonial tensions and resistance
* '''The War Experience''' — Military conflict and daily life
* '''A New Nation*** — Building the republic


=== Washington's War Tent ===
=== Washington's War Tent ===


The museum's most significant artifact is George Washington's headquarters tent:
The museum's centerpiece is '''George Washington's headquarters tent'''—the actual tent where Washington lived and worked during much of the Revolutionary War. The tent:
 
* Served as Washington's mobile headquarters from 1778-1783
* Used throughout the Revolutionary War
* Was used at Valley Forge, Yorktown, and other encampments
* Where Washington planned strategy
* Features a dramatic theatrical presentation
* Survived 240+ years
* Is one of the most important surviving Revolutionary War artifacts
* Displayed in its own theater with multimedia presentation
* One of the most important Revolutionary War artifacts in existence
 
=== Other Highlights ===
 
* Original printing of the Declaration of Independence
* Weapons and uniforms
* Privateer ship model
* Personal items from key figures
* Interactive experiences
 
== The Building ==
 
Robert A.M. Stern designed the building to complement Old City's historic architecture:


* Red brick exterior
=== Core Exhibition ===
* Georgian-inspired details
* Modern exhibition technology
* Three floors of galleries
* Rooftop terrace with views


== Visiting ==
The museum's permanent galleries tell the story of the Revolution through themed sections:


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Gallery !! Theme
|-
|-
! Detail !! Information
| '''Road to Revolution''' || Causes and buildup to war
|-
| '''Hours''' || Daily 10am-5pm
|-
|-
| '''Admission''' || $24 adults, $17 children 6-17, free under 6
| '''The War Experience''' || Life during the conflict
|-
|-
| '''Address''' || 101 S 3rd Street
| '''A Revolutionary People''' || Diverse perspectives
|-
|-
| '''Time needed''' || 2-3 hours
| '''The Price of Freedom''' || Consequences and legacy
|-
| '''Best for''' || History enthusiasts, families, students
|}
|}
=== Notable Artifacts ===
* Washington's headquarters tent
* British General Howe's campaign furniture
* Oneida Nation wampum belt
* Revolutionary-era weapons and uniforms
* Original documents and artwork
* Personal effects of soldiers and civilians
=== Immersive Experiences ===
* '''Battlefield Theater:''' Multi-sensory experience of the Battle of Brandywine
* '''Privateer Ship:''' Interactive recreation of Revolutionary-era naval warfare
* '''Period Room Reconstructions:''' Life in Revolutionary Philadelphia
=== Special Exhibitions ===
The museum regularly hosts traveling exhibitions and develops original shows exploring aspects of the Revolutionary era and its legacy.
== Visiting the Museum ==
=== Hours ===
* '''Daily:''' 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
* Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
=== Admission ===
* '''Adults:''' Approximately $24 (check website for current pricing)
* '''Seniors/Students:''' Discounted rates
* '''Children (5 and under):''' Free
* '''Members:''' Free


=== Tips ===
=== Tips ===


* The tent presentation runs on a schedule—ask at entry
* Allow 2-3 hours for a full visit
* Combine with nearby Independence Hall (free, but timed tickets required)
* The Washington's tent presentation is a must-see
* Audio guides available
* Audio guides available
* Café on site
* Start in the introductory theater for orientation
* Combine with visits to nearby Independence Hall and Liberty Bell
 
=== Getting There ===
 
* '''SEPTA Market-Frankford Line:''' 5th Street Station
* '''SEPTA Bus:''' Routes 17, 33, 38, 44, 48
* '''PHLASH:''' Independence Mall stop
* '''Walking:''' Central to Old City historic sites
* '''Parking:''' Independence Mall garage nearby
 
=== Nearby Attractions ===


== Getting There ==
* [[Independence Hall]] (2-minute walk)
* [[Liberty Bell]] (2-minute walk)
* [[National Constitution Center]] (5-minute walk)
* [[Carpenters' Hall]] (2-minute walk)
* [[Christ Church]] (3-minute walk)


* '''SEPTA Subway''' — 2nd Street Station (Market-Frankford Line)
== Programs and Events ==
* '''SEPTA Bus''' — Routes 17, 33, 48, 57
* '''Walking''' — In Old City, steps from Independence Hall
* '''Parking''' — Nearby garages (AutoPark at Independence Mall)


== Frequently Asked Questions ==
=== Educational Programs ===


{{FAQ
* School field trips
|q1=Can you see George Washington's tent?
* Teacher workshops
|a1=Yes, Washington's actual headquarters tent—used throughout the Revolutionary War—is the museum's centerpiece. It's displayed in a special theater with a multimedia presentation. This is one of the most significant Revolutionary War artifacts in existence.
* Family programs
* Scout programs


|q2=Is the Museum of the American Revolution the same as Independence Hall?
=== Public Programs ===
|a2=No, they are separate sites. The Museum of the American Revolution is a private museum with paid admission ($24 adults). Independence Hall is a National Park site with free admission (timed tickets required). They are located near each other in Old City.


|q3=How long does the Museum of the American Revolution take?
* Lectures and author talks
|a3=Plan 2-3 hours to see the core exhibits and the Washington tent presentation. The museum is comprehensive and benefits from taking your time. It can be combined with other Old City sites for a full day.
* Revolutionary War reenactments
* Living history demonstrations
* Special events on historic anniversaries


|q4=Is the Museum of the American Revolution worth it?
=== Revolution Place ===
|a4=Most visitors find it worthwhile, especially history enthusiasts. The immersive exhibits, rare artifacts (especially Washington's tent), and modern presentation distinguish it from traditional history museums. Combined with free Independence Hall visits, it makes Old City a destination for Revolutionary history.
 
}}
An interactive discovery center for families:
* Hands-on activities for children
* Dress-up in period clothing
* Learn about daily life in Revolutionary times


== See Also ==
== See Also ==


* [[American Revolution in Philadelphia]]
* [[Independence Hall]]
* [[Independence Hall]]
* [[Old City]]
* [[Liberty Bell]]
* [[Liberty Bell]]
* [[National Constitution Center]]
* [[Valley Forge]]
* [[Old City, Philadelphia]]


== References ==
== References ==
Line 121: Line 158:
== External Links ==
== External Links ==


* [https://amrevmuseum.org Official Website]
* [https://www.amrevmuseum.org Museum of the American Revolution Official Website]
* [https://amrevmuseum.org/plan-your-visit Plan Your Visit]
* [https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/museum-of-the-american-revolution/ Visit Philadelphia Guide]


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Museum of the American Revolution - George Washington's Tent in Philadelphia
|title=Museum of the American Revolution Philadelphia - Washington's Tent and Revolutionary War History
|description=The Museum of the American Revolution in Old City Philadelphia features George Washington's actual headquarters tent and immersive Revolutionary War exhibits. Opened 2017.
|description=Visit the Museum of the American Revolution in Old City Philadelphia. See George Washington's headquarters tent, immersive battlefield experiences, and Revolutionary War artifacts near Independence Hall.
|keywords=Museum of the American Revolution, George Washington tent, Revolutionary War museum, Old City Philadelphia, American history museum, Independence Hall area
|keywords=Museum of the American Revolution, George Washington tent, Revolutionary War museum, Philadelphia history museum, Independence Hall, Old City Philadelphia, American Revolution artifacts
|type=Article
|type=Article
}}
}}


[[Category:Museums]]
[[Category:Museums]]
[[Category:History Museums]]
[[Category:Old City]]
[[Category:Old City]]
[[Category:American Revolution]]
[[Category:American Revolution]]
[[Category:Historic Sites]]
[[Category:Family Attractions]]

Latest revision as of 21:09, 30 December 2025

Museum of the American Revolution



TypeHistory museum
Address101 South Third Street
MapView on Google Maps
NeighborhoodOld City
Phone(215) 253-6731
WebsiteOfficial site
Established2017
FounderH.F. "Gerry" Lenfest (primary donor)
DirectorR. Scott Stephenson
HoursDaily 10 AM - 5 PM
Museum of the American Revolution(215) 253-6731101 South Third StreetPhiladelphiaPAUS

The Museum of the American Revolution is a history museum located in Old City, dedicated to telling the story of the American Revolution and its ongoing relevance. Opened in April 2017, the museum houses an extraordinary collection of Revolutionary War artifacts, including George Washington's headquarters tent—the actual tent from which Washington commanded the Continental Army throughout the war.[1]

The museum's state-of-the-art galleries use immersive experiences, theatrical presentations, and rare artifacts to explore the Revolutionary era from multiple perspectives, including those of enslaved people, Native Americans, women, and ordinary citizens who experienced the tumult of revolution. Located just steps from Independence Hall and other historic sites, the museum provides essential context for understanding the birth of the United States.[2]

History

[edit | edit source]

Origins

[edit | edit source]

The museum grew from the collections of the Valley Forge Historical Society, which had preserved Revolutionary War artifacts for over a century. Philadelphia philanthropist H.F. "Gerry" Lenfest provided the lead gift to create a world-class museum in the heart of historic Philadelphia.

The Building

[edit | edit source]

The museum building was designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects and opened on April 19, 2017—the 242nd anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The Georgian Revival-style building was designed to complement the surrounding historic architecture of Old City.

Location

[edit | edit source]

The museum sits on land with Revolutionary-era significance:

  • Site of the former Pemberton House
  • Near the location of Carpenters' Hall (First Continental Congress)
  • Steps from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
  • Heart of the most historic square mile in America

Exhibits

[edit | edit source]

Washington's War Tent

[edit | edit source]

The museum's centerpiece is George Washington's headquarters tent—the actual tent where Washington lived and worked during much of the Revolutionary War. The tent:

  • Served as Washington's mobile headquarters from 1778-1783
  • Was used at Valley Forge, Yorktown, and other encampments
  • Features a dramatic theatrical presentation
  • Is one of the most important surviving Revolutionary War artifacts

Core Exhibition

[edit | edit source]

The museum's permanent galleries tell the story of the Revolution through themed sections:

Gallery Theme
Road to Revolution Causes and buildup to war
The War Experience Life during the conflict
A Revolutionary People Diverse perspectives
The Price of Freedom Consequences and legacy

Notable Artifacts

[edit | edit source]
  • Washington's headquarters tent
  • British General Howe's campaign furniture
  • Oneida Nation wampum belt
  • Revolutionary-era weapons and uniforms
  • Original documents and artwork
  • Personal effects of soldiers and civilians

Immersive Experiences

[edit | edit source]
  • Battlefield Theater: Multi-sensory experience of the Battle of Brandywine
  • Privateer Ship: Interactive recreation of Revolutionary-era naval warfare
  • Period Room Reconstructions: Life in Revolutionary Philadelphia

Special Exhibitions

[edit | edit source]

The museum regularly hosts traveling exhibitions and develops original shows exploring aspects of the Revolutionary era and its legacy.

Visiting the Museum

[edit | edit source]

Hours

[edit | edit source]
  • Daily: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas

Admission

[edit | edit source]
  • Adults: Approximately $24 (check website for current pricing)
  • Seniors/Students: Discounted rates
  • Children (5 and under): Free
  • Members: Free

Tips

[edit | edit source]
  • Allow 2-3 hours for a full visit
  • The Washington's tent presentation is a must-see
  • Audio guides available
  • Start in the introductory theater for orientation
  • Combine with visits to nearby Independence Hall and Liberty Bell

Getting There

[edit | edit source]
  • SEPTA Market-Frankford Line: 5th Street Station
  • SEPTA Bus: Routes 17, 33, 38, 44, 48
  • PHLASH: Independence Mall stop
  • Walking: Central to Old City historic sites
  • Parking: Independence Mall garage nearby

Nearby Attractions

[edit | edit source]

Programs and Events

[edit | edit source]

Educational Programs

[edit | edit source]
  • School field trips
  • Teacher workshops
  • Family programs
  • Scout programs

Public Programs

[edit | edit source]
  • Lectures and author talks
  • Revolutionary War reenactments
  • Living history demonstrations
  • Special events on historic anniversaries

Revolution Place

[edit | edit source]

An interactive discovery center for families:

  • Hands-on activities for children
  • Dress-up in period clothing
  • Learn about daily life in Revolutionary times

See Also

[edit | edit source]

References

[edit | edit source]
  1. ↑ "About the Museum". Museum of the American Revolution. Retrieved December 30, 2025
  2. ↑ "Museum of the American Revolution". Visit Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025
[edit | edit source]
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