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Revolutionary Lives:

Living the American Experience Then and Now (EXHIBIT)

Bridgewater Library is hosting the RevolutionNJ traveling exhibit “Revolutionary Lives: Living the American Experiment Then and Now” from October 28 - November 12, 2026. Come see it in the lobby!

This wonderful exhibit gives us an opportunity to explore New Jersey’s role in the American Revolution through the experiences of everyday people.

The American Revolution created dramatic disruptions and opportunities for the people of New Jersey. While much is known about the challenges faced by the leaders of the conflict, most Americans
are less familiar with the experiences of ordinary people. 

This exhibit invites you to explore their lives and how their experiences, views, and choices were shaped by their unique circumstances.

New Jersey’s diversity mirrors its Revolutionary narrative. Like today, the state was a rich mix of distinct languages, religions, and cultures. Loyalties were roughly divided between those supporting
the Revolution, those opposed, and the rest who were uncommitted. Allegiances bred bitter divisions and deep suspicion, in many ways creating a civil war. By the end of the War, the state suffered more damage than most and endured more violent clashes than any other.
The traveling exhibition explores this tumultuous period through the stories of everyday people under extraordinary circumstances. They urge us to consider how their stories echo through time, and
what we can do to fulfill the promises and ideals of the Revolution.

This exhibition is a project of RevolutionNJ, a partnership between The New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the New Jersey Department of State, and Crossroads of the American Revolution Association, Inc. This exhibition was curated by Sharp Consulting and designed by SouthSide Design and Building.
For additional credits see RevNJ.org/revolutionary-lives

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