PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The Weitzman is shining a light on an important historical event with an exhibition of the same name called, “The First Salute.”
“It tells the largely overlooked story of Jewish contribution and involvement in the American Revolution, both here in America and on a small Caribbean island called St. Eustatius,” says Dan Tadmor, President and CEO of The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History.
On November 16, 1776, the first international recognition of the United States started off with a bang.
“What we call ‘The First Salute’ actually happened by cannons talking to each other,” says Dr. Josh Perelman, curator of “The First Salute” and senior advisor for content and strategy at The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History. “When a ship called the Andrew Doria sailed into St. Eustatius Harbor.”
The Continental Navy ship fired a 13-gun salute and the Dutch island responded with a traditional welcome.
“The Jews on St. Eustatius really participated in what was a throughway of gunpowder, munitions and other supplies from European allies,” says Perelman.
With no promise the Revolution would succeed, he says “these people put their lives and livelihoods at risk.”
Just over 100 objects are on view, over five sections in the museum.
“The exhibition includes truly remarkable historic documents, three major films,” says Perelman.
There is also Judaica from around the Caribbean, including a Hanukkah lamp.
“And this is the first time that this is ever in the U.S.,” says Tadmor.
There are also objects on view that Perelman says, “tell us stories about Philadelphia that I think most people never knew.”
It’s where “Hamilton” meets “Pirates of the Caribbean.”
“I hope the visitors will enter the exhibition with curiosity,” says Perelman. “And I hope that during their visit they will discover something new about the Revolutionary era.”
Perelman says the exhibition is also a reminder that “our nation was created by a diverse community of people, all in service of creating a better world.”
“The First Salute: An Untold Story of the American Revolution” is on view through April of 2027 at The Weitzman, and it does require a special ticket.
For more information:
The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History | “The First Salute: An Untold Story of the American Revolution” | Link to Tickets for “The First Salute”
The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
101 South Independence Mall East
Philadelphia, PA 19106
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