Philadelphia, The Revolutionary City illuminated the lived experiences of Philadelphians leading up to, during, and after the fight for independence. It showcased historic documents and material culture, ranging from diaries and newspapers to political cartoons and household objects. Beginning with the Stamp Act in 1765, the exhibition traced key events through the late 1780s and the impacts they had on communities living within and around the city. The exhibition featured a range of voices and stories, offering windows into this turbulent period of change and presenting Revolution-era Philadelphia as a vibrant and growing city.

This exhibition was inspired by the innovative digital archive The Revolutionary City: A Portal to the Nation’s Founding, launched by the American Philosophical Society, the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, and the Library Company of Philadelphia, in partnership with the Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts and the Museum of the American Revolution. Philadelphia, The Revolutionary City brought together rare manuscript material and objects from the APS’s Library and Museum holdings, and the collections of these partners, as well as loans from regional institutions, and nearby historic houses and museums.

Support for this exhibition was provided by APS Members and Friends, and donations by visitors to the APS Museum.

Operational funding has been provided by a grant from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission's Cultural and Historical Support Program, a program funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.