The countdown is on to the 250th anniversary of the war for independence! The Bayside Historical Society, in conjunction with the Increase Carpenter Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, is proud to present "The American Revolution Experience" in partnership with the American Battlefield Trust. This special traveling exhibit will be at The Castle from March 17 to March 24, 2026. This innovative pop-up exhibition features display panels and interactive digital kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology and unique artifacts and primary accounts to connect modern audiences with the people and places that shaped the birth of our nation.

The traveling exhibit includes 12 panels highlighting thematic connections between profiled individuals and three interactive kiosks that connect to the full digital biographies, provide documentary context on the Revolutionary War and offer information on how to visit the places tied to these individuals today. Both online and on-site, the American Revolution Experience features custom illustrations by South Carolina-based artist Dale Watson. The exhibit also draws from documents and objects in DAR's collection, as well as the Trust's industry leading digital interpretation resources.

To complement the exhibition, the Bayside Historical Society will feature additional artifacts and historical documents from its own collections, highlighting Queens' ties to the Revolutionary era. BHS thanks the Queens Historical Society and NYC Parks for their valuable historical contributions and collaborative support.

"The American Revolution Experience" invites visitors to consider the choice faced by members of the revolutionary generation as tensions mounted in the 1770s: Would these ordinary citizens risk their lives and livelihoods in pursuit of liberty? Or would they remain loyal subjects of the British crown, coming into conflict with neighbors and family? The exhibit surfaces diverse viewpoints and experiences, touching on the journeys — both literal and figurative — of Patriots and Loyalists, men and women, Black and Native populations and even international allies. Rather than focusing only on generals and famous statesmen, it introduces audiences to drummer boys, military mapmakers and other ordinary people who were impacted by global events.

From March 17th through March 24th, the American Revolution Experience Traveling Exhibit will be available to visitors Monday–Friday, from 12:30 PM–4:00 PM; Saturday from 10:00 AM–3:00 PM; and Sunday from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM.

Admission is free; $5 suggested donation.

Don't miss these upcoming events commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States:

• Saturday, March 21st: A presentation highlighting George Washington's Cook Box and other Revolutionary War replicas, led by Steve Eftimiades — details coming soon!

• Saturday, March 21st: Author Talk with Bill Bleyer: George Washington's Long Island Spy Ring

• Tuesday, March 24th: Author Talk with Dr. Joanne Grasso: The American Revolution on Long Island