The Stoney Creek Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm are presenting The American Revolution Experience, at the Rochester Hills Public Library January 11-17, 2026. Rochester is one of ten locations hosting this exhibit in Michigan during 2026, celebrating America’s 250th birthday, officially called The United States Semiquincentennial.
This award-winning exhibit is a partnership between the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) and the American Battlefield Trust. Originally launched as a website in 2022, the project won a Bronze Award in the Education, Art & Culture division of the second annual Anthem Awards. Due to its digital success, it was adapted into a physical pop-up traveling exhibition that connects audiences with the people and places of the Revolutionary War.
The pop-up exhibition includes twelve display panels and three interactive digital kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology, and primary accounts to connect modern audiences with the people and places that shaped the birth of our nation. Instead of focusing on famous generals, the exhibit features the diverse experiences of ordinary individuals, including Patriots, Loyalists, women, Black and Native Americans, and international allies.
The American Revolution Experience will travel to several libraries, historical societies, and museums through 2027, introducing visitors to a cast of historical characters with diverse experiences throughout the conflict and the places they visited on their journey.
The Opening Ceremony and Ribbon Cutting was held January 11, 2026. Speakers included Regent Barb Brown, Stoney Creek Chapter NSDAR; Vice Regent Gail Pietrzyk, Stoney Creek Chapter NSDAR; State Regent Dawn Brady, DAR of Michigan; Mayor Debbie Jones, City of Rochester; Mayor Bryan Barnett, City of Rochester Hills; and Dr. David Greer, Retired Professor of History at Rochester Christian University.
Following the ceremony there was a LiberTEA activity and reception. Guests were welcome to take home a small succulent plant potted in a china cup and saucer of their choice. Refreshments included tea, coffee, cake, can more.
Two additional events are planned at the Rochester Hills Public Library the week of the exhibit.
January 12 at 7:00 p.m.
- Learn about the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in Conference Room A. Members of the Stoney Creek Chapter will discuss who we are, what they do as a service organization, and membership in the DAR.
January 15 at 7:00 p.m.
- Join Dr. Greer for an informative talk about the American Revolution and the Great Experiment.
The tour moves to the Bloomfield Township Public Library, January 25 – January 30, 2026.
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