Experience the 250th Anniversary of the USA! Begin preparing now for your special experience during the 250th Anniversary of the USA!
We collaborate with schools, clubs, businesses, museums, historical societies, and senior citizen organizations to deliver engaging and meaningful programs tailored to this significant occasion. Check out some of the topics below.
Lenape Lifeways: Introducing the First People of Pennsylvania, New Jersey & Delaware
At the time of Columbus’s arrival, North America was home to as many as 10 million Native Americans. Among them, the Lenni Lenape occupied “Lenapehocking,” a vast homeland encompassing eastern Pennsylvania and parts of New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware. The Lenape, admired and respected by William Penn, faced betrayal and displacement due to the policies of Penn’s sons and the infamous Walking Purchase. This program examines the lives of these peaceful and progressive people by comparing and contrasting their social customs, history, religion, family life, agriculture, hunting, healing practices, arts and crafts, and ongoing contributions with those of Europeans and Colonial Americans. The program includes both a lecture and demonstration, as well as hands-on interactive exhibits. Four long tables are needed for exhibits, and a microphone may be required depending on the room size. The program is kid friendly and family oriented, with an adult version available. Additionally, it may help Boy and Girl Scouts meet various badge or patch requirements; please consult your handbooks.
Native American Contributions
This program introduces participants to a wide variety of Native people and their inventions. Although many Americans may not realize it, the legacy of Native Americans is woven throughout the nation, visible in place names, words, foods, sports, clothing, and health practices. Their contributions have enriched American culture and played a significant role in the country’s strength and success. The program, which promises to surprise attendees, includes lectures, demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and a question-and-answer session. Four long tables are needed for exhibits, and a microphone may be necessary depending on the room. It is suitable for children and families, with an adult version available. Boy and Girl Scouts may fulfill certain badge or patch requirements through participation; please check your handbooks.
Patriotic Native Warriors
This segment explores in detail the vital role played by highly skilled indigenous soldiers in United States wartime victories. Military groups may request a customized version of the Native American Contributions program.
Native Americans in the Civil War
This program uncovers the little-known story of approximately 20,000 Native warriors who fought in the Civil War. Participants will explore the divided loyalties that set Native Nations against each other, and learn about the remarkable exploits of key Native leaders in the conflict. One notable figure is Eli Parker, a Seneca Chief, Brigadier General, and Aide to General U.S. Grant, who drafted the terms of surrender signed at Appomattox. Civil War enthusiasts, family audiences, and students of Native American history will find this program enlightening, as it highlights the complex political realities that led Native American tribes and even family members to oppose one another in battle. The presentation begins with a lecture, followed by a lively Q&A session and opportunities for in-depth discussion. Exhibit materials will focus on individual Civil Warriors and Western Native battle sites. The program is designed for adult audiences and requires extension cords and a microphone as needed.
Native America’s “Better Half”: Strong Women, Strong Nations – The Role of Women in Native Society, Then & Now
The role of Native American women in tribal life and national history has often been overlooked and underestimated, largely due to early European writers who failed to value women beyond the restricted roles common in their own societies. Reservation life led men to abandon their traditional roles as hunters and warriors and to adopt European social customs, sometimes usurping female responsibilities. In contemporary Native communities, the achievements of women are frequently distorted or ignored. This program explores the roles and accomplishments of Native women through the perspectives of a Native woman and a historian. Participants will also view exhibits showcasing creative arts contributions, such as “Beautiful Visions,” passed down through generations. Four long tables are needed for exhibits, along with electricity and a microphone if necessary. The program is intended for adult audiences.
Penn’s Woods: The Peaceable Kingdom
Featuring the dramatic story of Indian Hannah, this program offers an in-depth look at the cordial relations among the Lenape, Quakers, and Moravians during early Pennsylvania settlement, as well as later conflicts with other European cultures. Once respected as “Grandfathers” who counseled for peace and arbitrated disputes among Native Nations, the Lenape eventually faced desperate negotiations to maintain their values and connection to “Turtle Island.” Four long tables, extension cords, and a microphone for larger rooms may be needed. The program is designed for adult audiences.
In Remembrance of the Treaty of Shackamaxon
From the Children of Tamanend, Lenape, to the Children of William Penn, First Proprietor of Pennsylvania: “For we were ever sworn to be friends, and we will walk together like brothers.”
What You Know That Isn’t So: Unstereotyping America’s Original People
This program challenges and corrects the myths and stereotypes that have shaped perceptions, portrayals, and policies regarding Native Americans. It exposes false beliefs used to justify the slaughter of up to 4 million Native Americans, the theft of 1.5 billion acres of land, and ongoing social injustices affecting the six million Native Americans living in over 570 Native nations or in American cities. Attendees are invited to participate in an eye-opening experience that replaces misconceptions with facts. Four long tables, extension cords, and a microphone for larger rooms may be required.
For more information about additional programs, please visit our Programs page.