Experience 18th-Century Skills and Trades at a Weekend Living History Event, May 14-15

Visitors Can Enjoy Hands-On Crafts, Activities, and Demonstrations with Dozens of Costumed Historical Tradespeople

From shoemakers to flagmakers, woodworkers, and more, nearly 30 costumed historical tradespeople will join the Museum of the American Revolution on Saturday, May 14, 2022 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 15, 2022, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. for Revolutionary Makers & Artisans: A Living History Event. Visitors to the Museum will enjoy hands-on crafts and activities, see demonstrations of 18th-century skills and trades, and meet the people who made the Revolution in 1770s Philadelphia, both inside the Museum and on the outdoor plaza.

Living History: Esther de Berdt Reed and the Ladies Association of Philadelphia
In 1780, women in Philadelphia produced over 2,000 shirts for General George Washington’s soldiers in three short months. Each shirt was personally signed by the maker as a symbol of her support for their efforts. Learn about the woman behind it all, Esther de Berdt Reed, who raised the money from fellow Philadelphian women through her Ladies Association and debated with Washington himself about how the money would be spent. 

Meet costumed historical interpreters from the Ladies Association of Revolutionary America — named after Reed’s women’s association — and learn how a man’s shirt was made in the 18th century. Then, try using linen thread to make a few handstitches yourself. 

Living History: Benjamin Flower’s Regiment of Artillery Artificers 
Benjamin Flower's Regiment of Artillery Artificers included craftspeople who created military supplies and ammunition in Revolutionary Philadelphia. Soldiers and civilian contractors created and transported cannon carriages, wagon harnesses, tin canteens, cartridge boxes, and ammunition.  

Join costumed living history interpreters portraying Benjamin Flower's Regiment of Artillery Artificers as tailors create uniforms, woodworkers prepare military supplies, and tinsmiths discuss fabricating cookware and canteens. 

Make-and-Take Crafts & Activities
On Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., visit the Museum’s family-friendly Revolution Place discovery center to try cartridge rolling and make a tin-punch lantern activity to take home.

Revolutionary Makers & Artisans programming is included with regular Museum admission. The Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by calling 215.253.6731, at AmRevMuseum.org, or at the front desk. Save $2 per adult ticket by purchasing online. Children ages 5 and under are always free.

Health and Safety Note
Masks and proof of vaccination are no longer required for daytime visitors to the Museum. More information about health and safety measures is available here.

About Museum of the American Revolution
The Museum of the American Revolution uncovers and shares compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality, and self-government. Through the Museum’s unmatched collection, immersive galleries, powerful theater experiences, and interactive elements, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for how this nation came to be and feel inspired to consider their role in ensuring that the promise of the American Revolution endures. Located just steps away from Independence Hall, the Museum serves as a portal to the region’s many Revolutionary sites, sparking interest, providing context, and encouraging exploration. The Museum, which opened on April 19, 2017, is a private, non-profit, and non-partisan organization. For more information, visit www.AmRevMuseum.org or call 877.740.1776.