American Revolution Center

American Revolution Center Getting $40 Million From Lenfest!

Philly.com is reporting that H.F. “Gerry” Lenfest will apparently give $r0 Million towards the development of the Museum of the American Revolution in Society Hill! Lenfest will give the money to the American Revolution Center through what is called a challenge grant. The $40 million challenge grant, if met, would provide the American Revolution Center with $80 million towards development of the new museum that will be located at 123 Chestnut Street. New York architect Robert A.M. Stern, of 10 Rittenhouse fame, will design the new Museum of the American Revolution. Why would Lenfest contribute so much towards the creation of the Museum of the American Revolution? Here it is in his own words:

“We have the opportunity to build the first national museum dedicated to the American Revolution in the historic district of Philadelphia…I think that’s the missing link in the chain of events that led to independence. So, I think it’s important to have it.”

In addition to Lenfest’s $40 million, The State of Pennsylvania will provide up to $30 million in capital redevelopment funds to the American Revolution Center.

According to Philly.com Lenfest has been a major supporter and backer of the Museum of the American Revolution for quite some time:

“Lenfest, a partner in the company that owns The Inquirer, has been a strong supporter of the museum since its beginnings and has not been hesitant with his financial backing. He acquired 78 acres of Valley Forge land for construction in 2007 for $4.1 million. He also contributed an additional $5 million for the American Revolution Center project, according to previously published reports.”

American Revolution Center Info

The American Revolution Center, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, owns a distinguished collection of historical objects, works of art, manuscripts, and printed works, and is working to establish The Museum of the American Revolution just steps from Independence Hall in the historic area of Philadelphia. Our mission is to engage the public in the history and significance of the American Revolution.

American Revolution Center Collection:

Firearms, textiles, rare books, artwork,
objects and manuscripts from the period of the American Revolution.
General George Washington’s sleeping and office tent, purchased from Martha Washington’s great-greatgranddaughter, Mary Custis Lee
Washington’s silver camp cups
Letters from Washington and other officers and soldiers
Commander-in-Chief Standard, the earliest surviving 13-star American flag
William Trego’s iconic painting The March to Valley Forge
Much more…

Why Build The Museum of the American Revolution?

There is still no national museum that tells the entire story of the American Revolution. Yet far from being a remote episode in the distant past, the American Revolution is the most important event in the history of the modern world, and an ongoing experiment in self government that continues to require the informed participation of its citizens. To keep the spirit of the American Revolution alive, we must ensure that rising generations know the history and ideas that have inspired our greatest moments as a nation.

For more information check out the American Revolution Center website.

Wow. Sounds like the American Revolution Center will be a welcomed addition to Center City!