As summer draws to a close, the Museum of the American Revolution invites families to enjoy a weekend filled with engaging historical activities during Labor Day Weekend, from Saturday, August 30 through Monday, September 1.
This special event promises a range of family-friendly activities, live performances, and more, making it an ideal outing for those looking to explore the past together.
For families planning to visit, there’s a special offer: children aged 12 and under will receive free admission when tickets are purchased at the museum’s front desk for the duration of the holiday weekend. It is important to note that this offer is not available online.
One of the highlights for young adventurers is the new History Explorers Audio Tour, designed specifically for children aged 7 to 12. This interactive tour brings Revolutionary-era stories to life, featuring first-person interpretations from historical figures such as King George III and Phillis Wheatley, along with the iconic Liberty Tree. By combining sensory and tactile activities, this audio experience guides listeners from 1763 Colonial America to present day, ensuring an engaging and memorable journey through history.
Among the notable events during the Labor Day Weekend are:
**Meet the Revolution: Daniel Sieh**
On Saturday, August 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., living historian Daniel Sieh will join the museum to delve into the lives of Asians in the United States during the 18th century. Through documents, activities, and artifacts, Sieh will illustrate how global trade intertwined the lives of Asian sailors, soldiers, traders, and enslaved individuals, who navigated American society as foreigners in a new land.
**Meet Joseph Plumb Martin**
Visitors can also catch a 30-minute theatrical performance showcasing the life of Continental Army soldier Joseph Plumb Martin, who was among the many teenage soldiers serving under General George Washington. Scheduled for August 30 and 31 at 1:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m., the performance features Chris Roche in the lead role and is penned by Ryan Schwartz.
**Meet Elizabeth Freeman**
On Monday, September 1, the museum will present another compelling theatrical performance centered on Elizabeth Freeman, known as Mumbet, a Massachusetts woman who successfully sued for her freedom from enslavement. Katelyn E. Appiah-Kubi will portray Freeman, with performances taking place at 1:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m.
**Revolution Place**
All weekend long, the museum’s family-friendly discovery center, Revolution Place, will be available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guests can immerse themselves in the lively and diverse Old City neighborhood of the 1700s through hands-on exploration in three key recreated historical environments: a military encampment, a tavern, and an 18th-century home.
**In-Gallery Talk: The Promise of Equality**
Visitors can engage in insightful discussions during daily in-gallery talks held at 11:30 a.m., where a museum educator will examine the promises of the Declaration of Independence and how various individuals advocated for equal rights in 1776 and beyond.
**Unpack a Sea Chest**
Every day at 2:30 p.m., visitors can join a museum educator to learn about life at sea during the Revolutionary War, exploring the roles and experiences of those in the Continental Navy, privateers, and POWs.
This Labor Day Weekend at the Museum of the American Revolution is sure to offer family fun while deepening historical understanding and appreciation.
image source from:metrophiladelphia