^{The Declaration of Independence, a rare 1833 Peter Force engraving in the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation collection, underwent conservation and restoration for the commemorative exhibition honoring America's 250th anniversary.}

“Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation,” opening July 1, 2026 at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, is the VA250 Signature Exhibition commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Presented by the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission and produced in partnership by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation and the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, the exhibition highlights Virginia’s leading role in the American Revolution and invites visitors to embark on a journey to uncover the civic stories and accomplishments of Virginia’s founders. It is currently on display at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture through January 4, 2026.

Virginia was the oldest, largest, wealthiest, and most populous of Britain's American colonies. Virginians — through their ideas, influence and efforts — helped forge a new American nation.

"Give Me Liberty" examines the essential Virginia people, events and sites that helped bring liberty and democracy to a nation. Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the exhibition will highlight the complex, diverse and inspiring Virginia history which is, in fact, America’s story.

The exhibition, featuring a rare 1833 printing of the Declaration of Independence in the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation collection, explores the continental and global forces as well as the actions of both iconic and ordinary people that brought about a model of democratic government that changed the world.

Special exhibit included with museum admission

"Give Me Liberty" is included with general admission to the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.

Residents of James City County, York County and the City of Williamsburg, including William & Mary students, receive complimentary admission to both museums with proof of residency. Parking is free.

"Give Me Liberty" is presented in partnership with the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission, Virginia Museum of History & Culture and St. John's Church with additional support from York County.

About the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

A commemorative partner of the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s days) and located on 200 Water Street near the Colonial Parkway, tells the story of the nation’s founding and the epic scale of the Revolution and its relevance today.

Admission tickets can be purchased online or in person. Plan your visit today or call (757) 253-4838 for more information. Parking at the museum is free for museum visitors. A free shuttle service is available to Historic Yorktown on the Yorktown Trolley.

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is administered by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, an educational agency of the Commonwealth of Virginia accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.