A Revolution of Her Own: Meet Deborah Sampson
Deborah Samson [Sampson], the first woman to successfully enlist, fight, and be honorably discharged from the American Military, captivates audiences in this hour-long program chronicling her life. An indentured servant by age five, Deborah grew up in a world where women were naught but second-class subjects. Without the ability to vote nor own property, Deborah knew her options were limited. Breaking the rules may be necessary to accomplish a greater goal in life.
After ten years working as a farm hand, Deborah was strong and possessed the physical capabilities of her male counterparts. As a self-educated woman, Deborah was the only female school teacher in Middleborough, Massachusetts. Then, on May 23, in the final years of the American Revolutionary War, Deborah bound her chest, tied back her hair, and, wearing male attire, enlisted in the Massachusetts 4th Regiment of the Continental Army, using the alias "Robert Shurtleff." Experience Deborah's arduous upbringing, nearly one and a half years of combat, and success as the first American, female, professional soldier through interactive stories and authentic 18th-century attire. Deborah's passion takes you back in time!
This performance is the flagship production of History At Play, LLC. Having been performed nearly 2,500 times, the award-winning living history experience is internationally renowned, was thrice named one of the Top 7 Things to Do in NYC, and received a standing ovation Off-Broadway, in the United Solo Theatre Festival, 42nd St, NYC.
Contains simulated violence. Viewer discretion is advised. Suitable for all ages.
About the Presenter: Judith Kalaora is the founder and Artistic Director of History At Play, LLC. She is a professional educator & living historian. She graduated from Syracuse University Magna cum Laude and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Literature, Language, & Culture. Judith completed the Globe Education Program at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London. She founded History At Play™, LLC (HAP) in 2010 to chronicle the lives of influential and often forgotten figures. She researches, writes, produces, & performs original productions and has a repertoire of over 16 performances. In 2024, Judith was 1 of just over 100 civilians to attend the National Security Seminar at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, PA. Judith created HAP to engage audiences worldwide, surpassing the bar for hi-calibre in-person, virtual, & hybrid Immersive Living History to interpret connections between historical legacies and contemporary values.
489 Congress St -
489 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101, USA
Program will begin at 10 a.m. ET.
Tickets must be purchased in advance online to help manage guest numbers. A limited number of tickets is available.
Food and drink, and backpacks/large bags are not permitted inside the MHS Exhibit Galleries. Photography and video recording during this program are strictly prohibited.
Guests may enter through and check-in at the Museum Store; program will begin at 10 a.m. ET.
- If you require assistance or have questions, please call 207-774-1822 x 214. However, because in-person guests are our priority, you may need to leave a message. We will return your call as soon as possible, but it may not be the same day.
- Limited metered, on-street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood, as are several parking garages including the Arts District Garage.
We kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations.