MA 250: Revolution on Martha’s Vineyard
MA 250: Revolution on Martha’s Vineyard
A 2026–2027 Programming & Exhibition Series
MA 250: Revolution on Martha’s Vineyard
In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the MV Museum presents a series of programs and an exhibition exploring how Revolutionary-era events unfolded on the Island.
From political debate and privateering to taverns, textiles, and daily life, this initiative connects national history to local experience. Through talks, tours, and conversations with Museum historians and guest scholars, MA 250 brings the Revolution into focus—here, on Martha’s Vineyard.
PUBLIC PROGRAMS
Programs take place on our main campus in Vineyard Haven and at the Cooke House in Edgartown, with select programs offered online. Additional programs, talks, and special events will continue to be announced in the coming weeks.
MARCH–APRIL
Martha’s Vineyard’s Wooly History
A four-part series exploring Revolutionary-era context and early resistance on Island.
March 4, 11, 18, 25
The Long Fuse
The road to Lexington and Concord with Bow Van Riper.
April 21
MAY–JUNE
Defending the Seacoast: Martha’s Vineyard in the Revolution, April 1775-March 1778
A look at the first years of the American Revolution on Martha’s Vineyard, where Islanders faced naval threats and played a role in resisting British forces.
May 19 at 5pm
Inside PBS’s The American Revolution with Sarah Botstein
An inside look at PBS’s The American Revolution with producer Sarah Botstein, exploring the craft of historical storytelling.
[Online only]
June 8 at 5pm
The War for the Dawnland: Reimagining King Philip’s War
Reconsider King Philip’s War through Wampanoag perspectives, place-based history, and Indigenous knowledge with Brad Lopes.
June 10 at 5pm
Founding Foods: Seasonal Eating on Martha’s Vineyard During the Revolution
A lively look at how the Revolution shaped food and daily life at the Cooke House in Edgartown with Norah Van Riper.
June 16 at 5pm
Revolution in Words: A Patriot vs. Loyalist Showdown
Step into June 1776 for a live debate between historians Patrick Spero and Mary Beth Norton, arguing Patriot and Loyalist perspectives.
June 22 at 5pm
JULY
Everyday Life in the 18th Century: A Tour of the Cooke House
A guided tour exploring daily life inside a historic Island home in Edgartown with Norah Van Riper.
July 6 at 4pm
250 Years Later: Thoughts on the American Revolution with Nathaniel Philbrick
A conversation exploring the American Revolution 250 years later through fresh perspective and historical insight.
July 14 at 5pm
Under the Cover of Darkness: The Story of the Holmes Hole Liberty Pole
Join Norah and Bow Van Riper for a dramatic story of protest, sabotage, and a bold act of resistance that left its mark on Vineyard history.
July 21 at 5pm
AUGUST
The Way We Wore: Clothing & Textiles During the Revolution
From raw fibers to finished garments, explore how clothing became both necessity and political statement during the Revolution.
August 10 at 4pm
The Great Sheep Heist: Grey’s Raid, 1778
Join Norah and Bow Van Riper as they explore a pivotal British raid that reshaped the Island during the Revolution.
August 20 at 5pm
The First Casualty: Sharper Michael and the Defense of Liberty
A powerful story of courage and loss, tracing the life of a man who died defending his freedom and community.
August 25 at 5pm
Colonial Tavern Night
An immersive evening of drinks, live music, and games that brings the social life of Revolutionary-era taverns to life.
August 28 from 5-7pm
SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER
Listen, My Children: Vineyard Legends of the Revolutionary War
Explore the myths, mysteries, and stories that reveal how the Vineyard remembers its Revolutionary past.
September 15 at 5pm
In Harm’s Way: Martha’s Vineyard and the War at Sea
A fast-paced look at how Vineyard sailors and privateers brought the Revolution to the open sea.
October 20 at 5pm
Grey’s Raid: The Week the Sheep Went Away
Exhibition on view beginning October 24, 2026
In September 1778, British troops arrived on Martha’s Vineyard and forced Islanders to surrender livestock and supplies—removing thousands of sheep and cattle over the course of five days.
Designed for children and families, this interactive exhibition explores how communities respond when outside forces make demands—and how decisions, communication, and logistics shape what happens next.
