Bridget FitzPatrick
Summer is always a great season to celebrate American heritage. Between Memorial Day, Flag Day, 4th of July and Labor Day, each holiday reminds us of those who came before us and sacrificed so that we will always be cognizant of our freedoms.
Feeling patriotic? Visiting the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia is befitting to learn in depth more about our country’s formation.
This gem of a museum is appropriately located in Old City, a brief walk from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House and the Benjamin Franklin Museum. An entire day or weekend can be spent visiting the most historic section of Philadelphia.
Okay, so it’s not in Delaware, but it’s less than two hours away by car from southern Delaware.
Or consider driving to the Wilmington station and taking the train into Center City so you don’t have to worry about parking.
The Museum of the American Revolution has the most comprehensive collection of artifacts, manuscripts, books and more dedicated solely to the infancy of our country. There are several displays to soak in. Read on.
Preserved objects on display include a period rifle and musket, uniforms, French and British swords, George Washington’s headquarters flag and other items too numerous to list.
The most fascinating of all of these is the highlight for many visitors: Washington’s War Tent, where countless decisions shaping the future were made. Remarkably, the original tent is still intact and has an interesting history. It was faithfully preserved by the Custis and Lee families for generations. Then, in 1909, Reverend W. Herbert Burk of Norristown, Pennsylvania, purchased the tent from Miss Mary Custis Lee, daughter of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. (Rev. Burke was instrumental in establishing Valley Forge National Historic Park.)
Besides these fascinating objects, the museum features many themes, such as “The Road to Independence” and “The Darkest Hour” and many more interpretive exhibits. There are also several films featured throughout the day.
Guided walking tours of the surrounding neighborhood of Old City are available, led by knowledgeable docents. Guided tours of the museum are also available, as are audio tours for a nominal fee.
And if you are inclined to learn more about 18th century trades and artisan skills, there are classes and demonstrations in period blacksmithing, gun making, stationery (penmanship) and bookbinding.
Be sure not to miss the museum’s gift shop that has a comprehensive book collection and unique gifts and apparel. The Cross Keys Café is open during museum hours, and has a wide range of choices for snacks, sandwiches, beer and wine.
IF YOU GO:
Museum of the American Revolution, 101 S. Third Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Tickets are $21 – $24 Adults; $19 Seniors and Students; $55 family of 4 (two adults, two youth); $13 Youth (6-17). “Any Day” tickets are $25.
Pictures from the Museum Website