Revolution 250: America's Independence Story 1763–1783

2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of a document that changed the world: The US Declaration of Independence. We are recognising this momentous period in British American history with a powerful free exhibition that charts the emergence of the United States of America. Featuring original maps, correspondence, first-hand accounts and reports, visitors are taken on a journey spanning twenty years that shaped history.

A rare, original ‘Dunlap broadside’ of the Declaration of Independence, printed on the night of 4 July 1776, is also on display. Alongside the familiar story of Britain and the rebels, discover more about those often overlooked in the traditional narrative – Indigenous peoples, Black Loyalists, and enslaved persons. Uncover the human consequences of the decisions made on both sides of the Atlantic during this time of shifting powers and allegiances.

Revolution 250: America’s Independence Story 1763–1783 not only documents the key political events and military manoeuvres on the road to American independence but also explores the impact of the conflict on those who lived through it. For this exhibition our team consulted with members of the Onondaga and Mohawk nations, and the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre in Nova Scotia. This exhibition contains material relating to colonial violence, slavery, and warfare.

Some records include ideas, language and imagery that may be offensive or distressing. In pictures Image 1 of 6 Image 2 of 6 Image 3 of 6 Image 4 of 6 Image 5 of 6 Image 6 of 6