Focus Gallery: Circa 1776: Jews in Colonial America

Portraits, artifacts, and documents exploring Jewish life in colonial and post-colonial America, marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Why go

A focused historical exhibition examining Jewish experiences during a formative period in American history, presented alongside the Museum's broader collection survey.

What to expect

A selection of works from the Museum's collection—including portraiture by John Wesley Jarvis, historical artifacts, and documents—displayed in a dedicated focus gallery on Floor 3.

Things to know

• Located in a focus gallery on Floor 3 of the Jewish Museum
• Presented in conjunction with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
• Displayed as a complement to 'Identity, Culture, and Community: Stories from the Collection of the Jewish Museum'
• Features John Wesley Jarvis's 'Portrait of Solomon Isaacs' (c. 1813), oil on canvas
• On view October 24, 2025 – August 9, 2026

Plan your visit

Free with museum admission. Museum hours: Sunday–Monday and Friday–Saturday 11am–6pm; Thursday 11am–8pm; closed Tuesday–Wednesday.