CALL TO Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War

You know how the story ended, now see how it began! Experience the sights and sounds of the American Revolution through the personal stories of the men and women who fought to win our nation’s independence and explore an unprecedented display of rare Revolutionary War artifacts from the original colonies, England, France and Canada.

This special exhibition runs from June 2025-June 2027 and is included in your FREE Museum admission – learn more here.

2025 Symposium – Revolutionary War 250: The Early Years

Friday, May 30. Join this free symposium featuring presentations by notable historians and military experts about the first two years of the Revolutionary War and commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Army’s founding. In-person attendees will also enjoy early access to the Museum’s special exhibit, “CALL TO Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War.” Register for free virtual and in-person attendance options here.

Exhibit Opening ~ Weekend Events.

Saturday and Sunday, June 7-8. Explore the past together, uncovering the powerful stories of our nations’ first veterans and their fight for independence. Opening weekend for the new exhibit, “CALL TO Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War” includes special, family-friendly, Revolutionary War-themed activities.

Schedule of Events

Living History: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Experience the sights, sounds and stories of the 18th century with living history reenactors who bring the past to life.

Family Craft Activity: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Explore the bold stories of Colonial America through crafts and activities with Museum educators.

Hands-on History: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.
Learn more about the life of a Revolutionary War Soldier by examining their clothing and equipment.

Volunteer Showcase: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.
Did you know George Washington was one America’s first spymasters? Join Museum volunteers to learn more about modern-day military intelligence.

Powder Horn Carving Demonstration: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.
Watch a folk artist demonstrate the 18th century art of powder horn making and learn more about the decorative engravings Soldiers often made to personalize their powder horns with their name, dates and details about their service.

Family Flag Activity: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.
Make your own flag and explore the symbols of Revolutionary War flags with educators from the Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens.

Tiny Troops Story Time: 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Share in a read-aloud story time followed by a special activity. Best for children 3-6 years old.

Army Birthday Road Race: 7 a.m. (Sunday Only)
The Army is turning 250 years old on June 14! Celebrate early with this 6.14K birthday run! Runners will start and finish at the Museum where Army history is celebrated throughout the year! This event is hosted by the Army Historical Foundation and requires paid registration – learn more here.

Revolutionary War Public Programming

The Museum is celebrating Army 250 throughout the year with free public programs. 
More information is posted on the Museum’s events calendar.

MAY:

May 6 and 13: Battle Brief – Prelude to Yorktown: The Battle of Green Spring, 1781

JUNE:

June 3 and 10: Battle Brief – Opening Shots: The Beginning of the Revolutionary War
June 4, 11 and 18: History Talk – Revolutionary Spies: The Hidden War for Independence
June 19: Book Talk – “George Washington’s Momentous Year: Twelve Months that Transformed the Revolution,” by Gary Ecelbarger

Check back for new events and explore more Revolutionary War content 
on the Museum’s YouTube channel.