Who Was Ona Judge? Virtual Kids Club Explores Her Life and Daring Escape to Freedom

Part of The Museum’s Black History Month Celebration this February

The year is 1796 and a young woman enslaved in George and Martha Washington’s Philadelphia household makes a daring choice to secure her freedom. This February, as part of the Museum’s Black History Month celebration, the History Explorers Club invites children to discover the bold true story of Ona Judge, and learn how her experiences connect to the ongoing effort to secure liberty and equality for all.

On Saturday, Feb. 27, 2021, from 11:30am – 12:30pm, the History Explorers Club will embark on a virtual exploration of Judge’s world using replica objects like those she would have used in 18th-century Philadelphia. In addition to replica objects, participants will view an original doorknob from the President’s House—the Washington’s Philadelphia home—which may have been the last thing she touched before escaping to freedom. Meeting virtually, kids will learn how she escaped, where she went, and how historical evidence documented it.

History Explorers Club is best enjoyed by ages 7-11 but is fun for all kids. Registration is $4 for Museum Members and $7 for general admission. Tickets can be purchased here.

Looking ahead, explorers can join online for more unexpected stories during the next meeting on March 20, which will invite kids to discover espionage during the era with Spies of the Revolution. On April 17, everyone’s invited to celebrate the Museum’s birthday with It’s Our Birthday! For more virtual resources and activities for all ages, check out our Kids and Families page.

Please note: The Museum is now open to the public Fridays – Sundays from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and select holiday Mondays with enhanced health and safety protocols.

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.