Two developments in American history that loom large in the exhibit are the county's role in the American Revolution and the Civil War.
The combat of the Revolution came to what is now Montgomery County after the Battle of Brandywine in September 1777. After the British took Philadelphia, Washington launched a counterattack at Germantown. This was followed by a short encampment at Whitemarsh. Washington's Army then went into winter encampment at Valley Forge. The current exhibit recognizes this with period military items such as swords from the society's collection.
Likewise, the Civil War had a major historical impact on Montgomery County. Thousands of men volunteered for military service, and several native sons became fighting generals, most notably Winfield Scott Hancock of Norristown.
"Hancock the Superb," as his admirers called him during the war, emerged as a hero in many battles including Gettysburg. Over time, the Historical Society has devoted much of its energy to promoting his image. The bullet taken from Hancock's leg at Gettysburg is part of the current display.
The last execution in the county took place in Norristown in 1910, according to Nancy S. Powell, executive director of the society. After 1910, executions in Pennsylvania were carried out by the state, not by counties. The hood, rope and handcuffs used in the 1910 hanging are on display.
The political section of the exhibit notes that five men from Montgomery County have risen to governor. They are David R. Porter, Francis Shunk, John F. Hartranft, Samuel Pennypacker and Milton Shapp. Political items on display include a banner from the Clay Club of Frederick Township, supporting Kentuckian Henry Clay's unsuccessful campaign for president in 1844.
