As the United States prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, two iconic museums—the Concord Museum in Massachusetts, and America’s first museum, founded on the eve of the Revolution – The Charleston Museum in South Carolina – are must-visit destinations.
Both museums offers access to the stories and artifacts that shaped our nation. Charleston continues to rank as one of the most popular U.S. destinations, while Concord is rapidly emerging as a must-see historic hub for 2025.
Concord Museum: Where the Revolution Began
Located in the birthplace of the American Revolution, the Concord Museum is unveiling a dynamic lineup of exhibitions and programs to honor this monumental anniversary:
250th Midnight Ride Celebration (April 26, 2025): An evening of festive food, entertainment, and dancing to honor Concord’s pivotal role in American history.
April 19, 1775 Exhibit: Experience the day the Revolution began through 200 rare artifacts, including the original lantern from Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, muskets, powder horns, and more.
“Whose Revolution?” Exhibition (Opens March 28, 2025): This groundbreaking exhibit explores how the Revolution impacted individuals, families, and communities, offering diverse and untold perspectives on the era.
Free Community Day (April 19, 2025, the anniversary of the Shot Heard Round the World): A day of free admission, living history reenactments, and hands-on Revolutionary-themed activities for the whole family.
“Eyewitness to Revolution” Book Release (March 2025): Curator and historian David F. Wood presents a beautifully crafted narrative with stunning photography that parallels the museum’s immersive galleries.
1775: A Society on the Brink of War and Revolution Symposium (April 10-11, 2025): An academic deep dive into the societal shifts of 1775, in collaboration with prestigious historical organizations.
Charleston Museum: Founded on the Eve of the Revolution
Founded in 1773, on the eve of the Revolutionary War, and considered America’s first museum, The Charleston Museum offers a comprehensive exploration of the South Carolina Lowcountry’s rich history.
The Museum’s to this immersive experience includes:
- Heyward-Washington House: Explore one of the only homes George Washington spent the night in. In the picturesque French Quarter neighborhood, enjoy a new audio tour this spring that captures the spirit of the revolution in the South and details Charleston’s role in the war.
- Siege Lines of Charleston Tours: Join us throughout the year as we step back in time on a special tour of urban landscapes, interspersed with pleasant city parks, that were once the site of vicious fighting between besieging British troops and Patriot defenders during April – May 1780, the longest siege of the war.
- Becoming Americans: Charleston in the Revolution: This exhibit houses a number of rare artifacts; from Francis Marion’s possessions, to muskets, and a rare cartridge box carried by a member of the British Royal Artillery at the Battle of Lexington and Concord.
- 250th Anniversary & SC250 Events: Engage with Charleston’s storied past through a series of special tours, lectures, and interactive exhibits.