Discover How 18th-Century Tradespeople Made the Revolution During Makers of Revolutionary Philadelphia Living History Day, April 25

Visitors Can View Demonstrations of Skills and Trades Like Engraving, Woodworking, Bandbox Making, and More

Over a dozen historical tradespeople will join the Museum of the American Revolution for its Makers of Philadelphia Living History Day, Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. to showcase the skills and trades of Philadelphians in the 1770s. Historical interpretation and hands-on activities will include bandbox making, shoemaking, engraving, cartridge rolling, sailmaking, and more. Don't forget to get your History Explorer passport stamped by all the different makers! 

Throughout the day, Museum visitors can also explore life in the 18th century in our family-friendly Revolution Place discovery center, watch Washington’s War Tent film, and more. Through our current special exhibition, The Declaration’s Journey, presented by Griffin Catalyst, family members of all ages can explore how the Declaration of Independence’s words and impact began in 1776 and still carry on today.  

Other full-day highlights of Makers of Revolutionary Philadelphia Living History Day include: 

Conservator and Interpreter Ben Bartgis 

Bartgis will demonstrate to visitors the use of paper and parchment in the 18th century in the street trade of bandbox selling. Bandboxes were traditionally made from pasteboard or thin wood, often covered in decorative wallpaper, and used for storing hats or personal items. 

Meet the Revolution with Living Historian Daniel Sieh  

Sieh will join the Museum for Makers of Revolutionary Philadelphia Living History Day to help explore the lives of Asians in the United States in the 18th century. Through documents, activities, and objects, Sieh will unpack how global trade connected the lives of Asian sailors, soldiers, traders, and enslaved people as they navigated American society as strangers from a distant land. 

Bartgis, Sieh and other living historians will join the Museum throughout the summer as part of our ongoing Meet the Revolution programming series. Find more information and dates here. 

Make-and-Take Crafts & Activities  

Visit the Museum’s family-friendly Revolution Place discovery center, now conveniently located on the first floor, to make a traditional heart-shaped pincushion. 

Makers of Revolutionary Philadelphia Living History Day programming is included with regular Museum admission. The Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Current special exhibit The Declaration’s Journey, presented by Griffin Catalyst, is open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and is included with regular Museum admission. Tickets to the Museum can be purchased by calling 215.253.6731, at AmRevMuseum.org, or at the front desk. Save $2 per adult ticket by purchasing online. Kids ages 5 and under are always free. All tickets are valid for two consecutive days. 

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 an independent, non-profit, and non-partisan organization. For more information, visit www.AmRevMuseum.org or call 877.740.1776.