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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''' sits in [[Old City, Philadelphia|Old City]] and tells the story of the American Revolution. It matters because it explores what that revolution meant then and means now. The museum opened in '''April 2017''', and right away it became known for one artifact above all: '''[https://biography.wiki/g/George_Washington George Washington]'s headquarters tent'''. That's the actual tent Washington used while commanding 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 galleries aren't what you'd expect from a typical history museum. They're built for immersion. You'll find theatrical presentations, rare artifacts, and stories from people who usually don't get heard: enslaved people, Native Americans, women, ordinary citizens caught in the chaos of revolution. The location helps too. You're steps away from [[Independence Hall]] and other sites that shaped the nation.<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 ===
 
This museum didn't appear out of nowhere. The '''Valley Forge Historical Society''' had been collecting Revolutionary War artifacts for over a century. When Philadelphia philanthropist '''H.F. "Gerry" Lenfest''' decided to give a major gift, everything changed. He wanted a world-class museum in historic Philadelphia, and that's what happened.


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 ==
Robert A.M. Stern Architects designed the building. It opened on '''April 19, 2017'''. That date wasn't random. It marked the 242nd anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The Georgian Revival style fits the surrounding architecture of Old City perfectly.


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


The museum's core exhibition spans multiple galleries:
Geography matters here. The museum stands on land with actual Revolutionary significance:
* Site of the former '''Pemberton House'''
* Near where Carpenters' Hall stood (First Continental Congress met there)
* A few steps from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
* Right in the 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:
You can't miss this. The museum's centerpiece is '''[https://biography.wiki/a/George_Washington George Washington]'s headquarters tent''', and it's the real deal. Washington lived and worked in this tent during much of the Revolutionary War. Some facts about it:
 
* Served as his mobile headquarters from 1778-1783
* Used throughout the Revolutionary War
* Was set up at Valley Forge, Yorktown, and other encampments
* Where Washington planned strategy
* There's a dramatic theatrical presentation when you see it
* Survived 240+ years
* It ranks among 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 permanent galleries break the Revolution into themed sections. They don't just tell what happened. They show what it felt like, who experienced it differently, and what came after.


{| 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 ===
Beyond Washington's tent, you'll see:
* 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 ===
These aren't just displays. The museum puts you in the moment:
* '''Battlefield Theater:''' A multi-sensory experience of the Battle of Brandywine
* '''Privateer Ship:''' An interactive recreation of Revolutionary-era naval warfare
* '''Period Room Reconstructions:''' What life looked like in Revolutionary Philadelphia
=== Special Exhibitions ===
The museum doesn't rest on what it's already built. It regularly brings in traveling exhibitions and develops new shows that explore different angles on the Revolutionary era and its effects on what came after.
== Visiting the Museum ==
=== Hours ===
The museum's open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Thanksgiving and Christmas are the only days it closes.
=== Admission ===
Prices vary by age and status:
* '''Adults:''' Approximately $24 (check the website for current pricing)
* '''Seniors/Students:''' Discounted rates available
* '''Children (5 and under):''' Free
* '''Members:''' Free


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


* The tent presentation runs on a schedule—ask at entry
Plan on spending two to three hours. Really, don't rush through this. The Washington's tent presentation alone is worth the trip. Audio guides are available if you want more detail about specific artifacts. Start in the introductory theater so you understand what you're about to see. While you're in the area, combine this with visits to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
* Combine with nearby Independence Hall (free, but timed tickets required)
 
* Audio guides available
=== Getting There ===
* Café on site
 
Multiple ways work:
* '''SEPTA Market-Frankford Line:''' 5th Street Station
* '''SEPTA Bus:''' Routes 17, 33, 38, 44, 48
* '''PHLASH:''' Independence Mall stop
* '''Walking:''' It's central to Old City historic sites
* '''Parking:''' The Independence Mall garage is nearby
 
=== Nearby Attractions ===


== Getting There ==
You'll be surrounded by history:
* [[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
The museum works with schools and groups:
|q1=Can you see George Washington's tent?
* School field trips
|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.
* Teacher workshops
* 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?
There's always something happening. Lectures and author talks draw crowds. Revolutionary War reenactments bring the past to life. Living history demonstrations show what daily work looked like. Special events mark important anniversaries.
|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.


|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.
 
}}
This interactive discovery center exists for families. Kids can do hands-on activities, dress up in period clothing, and learn how people actually lived during 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 152:
== 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
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[[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 21:56, 23 April 2026

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 sits in Old City and tells the story of the American Revolution. It matters because it explores what that revolution meant then and means now. The museum opened in April 2017, and right away it became known for one artifact above all: George Washington's headquarters tent. That's the actual tent Washington used while commanding the Continental Army throughout the war.[1]

The galleries aren't what you'd expect from a typical history museum. They're built for immersion. You'll find theatrical presentations, rare artifacts, and stories from people who usually don't get heard: enslaved people, Native Americans, women, ordinary citizens caught in the chaos of revolution. The location helps too. You're steps away from Independence Hall and other sites that shaped the nation.[2]

History

Origins

This museum didn't appear out of nowhere. The Valley Forge Historical Society had been collecting Revolutionary War artifacts for over a century. When Philadelphia philanthropist H.F. "Gerry" Lenfest decided to give a major gift, everything changed. He wanted a world-class museum in historic Philadelphia, and that's what happened.

The Building

Robert A.M. Stern Architects designed the building. It opened on April 19, 2017. That date wasn't random. It marked the 242nd anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The Georgian Revival style fits the surrounding architecture of Old City perfectly.

Location

Geography matters here. The museum stands on land with actual Revolutionary significance:

  • Site of the former Pemberton House
  • Near where Carpenters' Hall stood (First Continental Congress met there)
  • A few steps from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
  • Right in the heart of the most historic square mile in America

Exhibits

Washington's War Tent

You can't miss this. The museum's centerpiece is George Washington's headquarters tent, and it's the real deal. Washington lived and worked in this tent during much of the Revolutionary War. Some facts about it:

  • Served as his mobile headquarters from 1778-1783
  • Was set up at Valley Forge, Yorktown, and other encampments
  • There's a dramatic theatrical presentation when you see it
  • It ranks among the most important surviving Revolutionary War artifacts

Core Exhibition

The permanent galleries break the Revolution into themed sections. They don't just tell what happened. They show what it felt like, who experienced it differently, and what came after.

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

Beyond Washington's tent, you'll see:

  • 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

These aren't just displays. The museum puts you in the moment:

  • Battlefield Theater: A multi-sensory experience of the Battle of Brandywine
  • Privateer Ship: An interactive recreation of Revolutionary-era naval warfare
  • Period Room Reconstructions: What life looked like in Revolutionary Philadelphia

Special Exhibitions

The museum doesn't rest on what it's already built. It regularly brings in traveling exhibitions and develops new shows that explore different angles on the Revolutionary era and its effects on what came after.

Visiting the Museum

Hours

The museum's open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Thanksgiving and Christmas are the only days it closes.

Admission

Prices vary by age and status:

  • Adults: Approximately $24 (check the website for current pricing)
  • Seniors/Students: Discounted rates available
  • Children (5 and under): Free
  • Members: Free

Tips

Plan on spending two to three hours. Really, don't rush through this. The Washington's tent presentation alone is worth the trip. Audio guides are available if you want more detail about specific artifacts. Start in the introductory theater so you understand what you're about to see. While you're in the area, combine this with visits to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

Getting There

Multiple ways work:

  • SEPTA Market-Frankford Line: 5th Street Station
  • SEPTA Bus: Routes 17, 33, 38, 44, 48
  • PHLASH: Independence Mall stop
  • Walking: It's central to Old City historic sites
  • Parking: The Independence Mall garage is nearby

Nearby Attractions

You'll be surrounded by history:

Programs and Events

Educational Programs

The museum works with schools and groups:

  • School field trips
  • Teacher workshops
  • Family programs
  • Scout programs

Public Programs

There's always something happening. Lectures and author talks draw crowds. Revolutionary War reenactments bring the past to life. Living history demonstrations show what daily work looked like. Special events mark important anniversaries.

Revolution Place

This interactive discovery center exists for families. Kids can do hands-on activities, dress up in period clothing, and learn how people actually lived during Revolutionary times.

See Also

References

  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

External Links

Retrieved from "https://philadelphia.wiki/index.php?title=Museum_of_the_American_Revolution&oldid=5255"