The leadership of The American Revolution Center joined with Nation Representative Ray Halbritter and other leaders of the Oneida Nation in announcing a $10 million gift from the Oneidas to the Center. The gift is made in part to recognize the little known, but extraordinary role the Oneidas played in the Revolutionary War. With today’s gift, the Center is more than a quarter of the way toward matching the $40M Lenfest challenge announced last month.

The Oneidas fought in support of the colonists, enduring many hardships and lost lives during America’s War for Independence. “The contributions and tremendous sacrifices of the Oneida people as America’s first ally in the Revolutionary War, resulted in an ongoing friendship and treaty relationship between the Oneida Nation and the United States for more than two centuries” said Oneida Nation Representative Ray Halbritter. “Our commitment to the American Revolution Center furthers that friendship and ensures that the resilience displayed together by America’s founding fathers and the Oneida people continue to serve as inspiration to everyone who wishes to understand the shared history of the Oneida Nation and America.”

The $10 million donation was presented by Nation Representative Halbritter to H.F. (Gerry) Lenfest, Chairman, and Michael C. Quinn, president and CEO of The American Revolution Center. Michael Quinn said, “As they did more than two centuries ago, the Oneida Indian Nation has again stepped forward to support the spirit of the American Revolution. Their generous contribution will help match Gerry Lenfest’s $40M challenge to construct The Museum of the American Revolution. We are most grateful for their support.”

Mr. Lenfest said, “Today’s announcement will expand Americans’ awareness of the ethnic and religious diversity of those who were part of establishing our nation during the American Revolution. This is a story we will be telling in the new museum. We are honored to accept this generous gift and acknowledge the Oneida Indian Nation as a Founder of The Museum of the American Revolution.”

The museum, to be built at 3rd and Chestnut Streets in historic Philadelphia, will house the original artifacts, manuscripts, rare books and works of art owned by The American Revolution Center, the non-profit educational organization that is building the museum. The museum will tell the full story of the American Revolution and explore its ongoing legacy, providing context to the many regional museums that present elements of our nation’s founding era.

About the American Revolution Center
The American Revolution Center is a non-partisan, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to engaging the public in the history and enduring legacy of the American Revolution. For more information, please visit www.AmericanRevolutionCenter.org or call toll free at 877-740-1776.

About the Oneida Indian Nation
Historically inhabiting the lands from the northern border of Pennsylvania north to the St. Lawrence River of New York State, the Oneida Indians made their mark in American history by becoming the first ally of the colonists in their fight for independence in the American Revolutionary War. In 1794, after the victory over the British, George Washington signed the Treaty of Canandaigua which recognized the Oneida Nation as a sovereign entity and protected much of the lands that comprise Oneida and Madison Counties.

Today, the Oneida Nation has regained prosperity through its Turning Stone Resort and Casino and its 15 other diverse enterprises. Via this new economic surge, the Oneida Nation has provided many programs and services to its Members and has enacted and supported many philanthropic programs and furthered its commitment to ensuring a peaceful community.

Quotes from New York delegation
Rep. Ann Marie Buerkle: “We just celebrated Independence Day, and it’s appropriate today that we recognize how the Oneidas were a part of that successful battle for independence. This gift can help people across the country and around the world understand and appreciate how the Oneida Nation stood side-by-side with the colonists.”

Rep. Richard Hanna: “This is a wonderful gift. It’s important to recognize the things we have in common as a people and as a country from our origins. Today’s announcement makes me more aware of the things we have in common. It’s a valuable day.”