Juneteenth 2026 at the Museum
Explore the continuing struggle for equality for all and join the Museum to celebrate Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. The date commemorates the day in 1865 when the abolition of slavery reached the deepest parts of the former Confederacy in Texas.
The Declaration's Journey
Daily | Patriots Gallery
The Declaration's Journey, presented by Griffin Catalyst, explores the history and global impact of the Declaration of Independence from 1776 to today and showcases how it has become one of the most influential political documents in modern history. Featured in the exhibition are Lemuel Haynes, Elizabeth Freeman, and Frederick Douglass, who all spoke out against slavery in America.
Sound of History
June 19, 6 p.m.
Two artist fellows have been immersed in the Museum - exploring collections and exhibitions, as well as attending meetings and public programs - using the experience to create original musical works bridging the worlds between 1776 and 2026. Join us for the premiere of these new musical compositions, in collaboration with ArtPhilly and Black Music City.
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First-Person Performance: Meet Elizabeth Freeman
Daily, 1:15 and 3:15 p.m. | Alan B. Miller Theater
Watch a 30-minute first-person theatrical performance portraying the life and experiences of Elizabeth Freeman, also known as Mumbet, a Massachusetts woman who sued for her freedom from enslavement and won. The performance stars Katelyn E. Appiah-Kubi as Elizabeth Freeman and was written by Teresa Miller.
Meet the Revolution with Joshua Carter
June 19-20
Historical interpreter Joshua Carter will discuss the impact of Dunmore's Proclamation on the lives of enslaved people of African descent. Through storytelling and 18th-century musical instruments and rhythms, Carter will share the methods used by people of African descent in Virginia to communicate their pursuit of freedom to one another and to the world.
In-Gallery Talk: From Seeking Freedom to Civil Rights
Daily, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. | Patriots Gallery
Join a Museum educator to discover the stories of people of African descent from the Revolutionary era through the Civil Rights Movement, as featured in the special exhibition The Declaration’s Journey.
10-Minute Talk: The Promise of Equality
Daily, 12:30 p.m.
Join a Museum educator in the core galleries to discover more about what ideas of equality for all meant during the Revolutionary War and in the new nation.
Discovery Cart: Black Soldiers of the Revolutionary Era
Daily, 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.
Explore replica handling objects and discover the agency of people of African descent and the various ways they contributed to the Revolutionary War.
Discovery Cart: The Declaration's Journey
Daily | Patriots Gallery
Join a Museum educator at a discovery cart to learn more about printing in the 18th century with replica objects and reproduction documents.
Revolution Place
Daily
Explore Revolution Place, the Museum’s family-friendly discovery center, which brings to life Old City’s lively, diverse neighborhood during the 1700s and invites visitors to learn through hands-on exploration. Kids of all ages can immerse themselves in three historical environments – a military encampment, a tavern, and a parlor – to experience the places where the American Revolution took root.
Black Voices of the Revolution Highlights Tour
Daily, 12 p.m.
Admission plus $10 for non-members, $10 for members
Join a Museum educator for this 60-minute tour of the core exhibit galleries highlighting a diverse set of stories, experiences, and objects related to people of African descent during the American Revolution. Along the way, you’ll see a first edition of Phillis Wheatley’s Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral, learn about Elizabeth Freeman’s historic court case, consider what the engraving “No Slavery” on a Continental Army soldier’s musket meant, and discuss William Lee's role on campaign as Washington's enslaved valet.
