The Living History Youth Summer Institute is a six-week intensive program introducing high school and college students to the fascinating world of costumed historical interpretation, focusing on the lives and experiences of people of African descent during the Revolutionary era.

The program includes field trips to historical sites, enhancing participants' understanding of varied interpretation techniques and diverse narratives. They also attend workshops on museum education, curation, and community outreach, and participate in hands-on crafts and interpretive planning.

It culminates in an exciting Interpretation Day featuring the Museum’s replica of George Washington’s Revolutionary War Tent, where participants share stories, in period costume, of the people of African descent who contributed to the founding of this nation.

Living History Youth Summer Institute students visit the Independence Seaport Museum to learn about life at sea during the 18th century.

Are you a high school or college student (ages 16–21), enthusiastic about history, cultural heritage, storytelling, and museums? Do not miss this chance to make history come alive!

Applications for 2026 are now closed.

This is a paid six-week program for students. Participants must be available for the entire program on weekdays and live within commuting distance of the Museum of the American Revolution. The program offers public transportation assistance, and additional off-site tours and field trips are included.

The 2026 Living History Youth Summer Institute was made possible with support from David and Sarah Kowitz.

Comcast NBCUniversal is the sponsor of the Museum’s African American Interpretive Program.

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Living History Youth Summer Institute Closing Ceremony honored five students for completing the six-week course.

First-Ever Class Graduates from Museum's Living History Youth Summer Institute

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Three students from the Museum's Living History Youth Summer Institute pose for a photo in from the Museum's recreated George Washington's tent in Clark Park.

African American Interpretive Program

Learn more about the Museum's African American Interpretive Program, which explores the voices, viewpoints, experiences, contributions, and legacies of people of African descent during the Revolutionary era and their relevance today through living history interpretation.
Read More