Lens & Learn: Revolutionary War Weapons

In celebration of our country’s 250th anniversary, we’ll be showing the 2025 PBS NOVA documentary Revolutionary War Weapons.

How did a ragtag army defeat the most powerful army in the world to win American independence? This NOVA special investigates how the fledgling American forces managed to defeat the mightiest army of the 18th century. Using modern scientific tools and reenactments, historians and engineers test and analyze weapons like the Brown Bess musket, long rifles, cannons, gabions, tomahawks—and even the era’s first submarine. The film explores how innovation, battlefield tactics, and surprising engineering feats changed the course of key conflicts like Lexington & Concord and Yorktown.

Please note: Due to the film’s length, the screening will begin promptly at 6:30pm. Many documentaries are unrated and may not be suitable for teens. No registration needed; join us in the Meeting Room.

Lens & Learn meets every other month for a scintillating documentary. The next screening will be in July.