Summer Reflections: Revolutionary History Comes To Our Community

As summer draws to a close and the first hints of autumn arrive, we look back with gratitude on a memorable final two weeks of August. The Battle of Rhode Island Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), in partnership with the Portsmouth Historical Society, was delighted to welcome the American Battlefield Trust’s American Revolution Experience Traveling Exhibit to our community.

Throughout the exhibit’s stay, visitors of all ages came together to explore the people, places, and stories that shaped the American Revolution—and to consider how that history continues to resonate here in Rhode Island.

Our program offered a variety of engaging opportunities for history enthusiasts, families, researchers, and curious community members alike.

We explored the fascinating world of 18th-century textiles, learning how cloth was far more than an everyday necessity. During the Revolution, textiles were an essential economic and strategic resource, and their production, availability, and trade could have significant consequences during wartime.

We also discovered the rich possibilities contained in American Revolution pension records. These remarkable documents offer valuable insights for researchers and family historians, revealing details about the lives and experiences of those who served. Participants learned how to access these records and how they can volunteer to transcribe them, helping make these important primary sources more accessible to future generations. The Portsmouth community players theater group treated the audience to a selection of 18th-century diary readings in “Voices from Butts Hill”.

Another highlight was our exploration of the strategic alliance between General Nathanael Greene and Colonel Thaddeus Kościuszko. Their collaboration provides another window into the international dimensions of the American Revolution.

Our Forgotten Patriots Day offered a meaningful opportunity to remember and honor citizens of color who contributed to the Revolutionary struggle, including the soldiers of the Rhode Island 1st Regiment. Their courage and sacrifices are an important, often untold part of our Revolutionary story.

On Family Day, young visitors were invited to experience history through storytelling in one of America’s oldest schoolhouses (Southernmost Schoolhouse, 1725), which brought the past to life. Meanwhile, a scavenger hunt encouraged children to explore the exhibit panels and uncover stories for themselves.

Thank you to everyone who visited, brought a friend, participated, volunteered, and helped make the American Revolution Experience Traveling Exhibit a rewarding community experience. We are grateful for your enthusiasm and support, and we look forward to welcoming you to our next chapter event!

Janice Hawthorne Byrne

Traveling Exhibit Committee Chair