Museum of the American Revolution Dedicates America's Liberty Tree, Recognizes Chairman and Other Benefactors at Groundbreaking Celebration

PHILADELPHIA – October 9, 2014 – More than 300 supporters, benefactors and honored guests gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking and beginning of construction of the new Museum of the American Revolution. National and local dignitaries, politicians and Museum leadership marked the occasion with the ceremonial dedication of America’s Liberty Tree, harkening the Museum’s goal of preserving the ideas and ideals of the American Revolution for future generations. “Thanks to your support, we are well on the way toward opening the doors to a Museum that is dedicated to keeping the roots of liberty alive by perpetuating the ideals of our founding fathers,” said Michael C. Quinn, president and CEO of the Museum. Journalist, author and supporter of the Museum Cokie Roberts was the keynote speaker for the event, and applauded the Museum on its mission and plans to bring to life the diverse and surprising stories of our nation’s original greatest generation. Other speakers included Tom Corbett, Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Robert P. Casey, Jr., United States Senator; Pat Toomey, United States Senator; and Rear Admiral Thomas C. Lynch, USN, Retired, former Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy. The Groundbreaking Celebration also honored Museum Founding Chairman H.F. “Gerry” Lenfest, to whom the 10-foot Liberty Tree was dedicated. “We are building this museum for present and future generations who need to be inspired and engaged so that the spirit of the American Revolution will remain strong,” said Lenfest. “Today marks a great milestone as our vision turns to reality and we look forward to opening day. To view images from this event, click here.

About The Museum of the American Revolution:

The Museum of the American Revolution will tell the complete story of the American Revolution using its distinguished collection of objects, artifacts, artwork, and manuscripts. Permanent and special exhibition galleries, theaters, and large-scale tableaux will bring to life the original “greatest generation,” and engage people in the history and continuing relevance of the American Revolution. Construction is now underway for the new Museum that is being built steps away from Independence Hall, Carpenter’s Hall, Franklin Court, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the Revolution. It will serve as a portal to the nation’s many Revolutionary sites, sparking interest, providing context and encouraging explorations that begin at the Museum’s doorstep. The Museum is a private, non-profit organization. For more information, visit www.AmRevMuseum.org or call toll free, 877-740-1776.