01/15/2026
An Unfinished Project: Reflections on the Promises of Revolution at the Nation’s 250th
January 22, 2026, 6:00–8:00 PM
New Bedford Whaling Museum
Register in advance for this free program, which marks the opening of Forging Independence | Building a Nation, a new semi-permanent exhibition that recognizes the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.
The evening begins with welcome remarks from New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell, followed by a 30-minute screening of selected excerpts from Ken Burns’s The American Revolution, highlighting the many individuals whose beliefs, identities, and courage shaped the nation’s founding.
Then enjoy a panel discussion, exploring how the Revolution reshaped lives across the region and how ideas of nationhood, abolition, citizenship, and racial identity evolved in its aftermath—and continue to resonate today. Panelists include Naomi Slipp, Jan da Silva, and Donika Kelly, who will reflect on the historical, civic, and poetic dimensions of the semi-quincentennial.
Then end the night at a light reception in the Jacobs Family Gallery and an opportunity to explore the new exhibition. Copies of The Natural Order of Things will be available for purchase in the Museum Store, with a book signing to follow.
https://www.whalingmuseum.org/program/an-unfinished-project-reflections-on-the-promises-of-revolution-at-the-nations-250th/