The work done by the citizenry of this nation in the last quarter of the eighteenth century was fundamental to the establishment of our nation. But a valid argument exists that without the aid of foreign supporters the nation’s foundation would not have succeeded. Delve into the philosophies, communications, and actions of a handful of significant men, Lafayette, von Steuben, Pulaski, Rochambrau and others, that directly contributed to the existence of the U.S. 

NEW Katz will present excerpts from his numerous historical documentaries, explore the journey that led him to this work, and excavate some of Philadelphia's most interesting characters, events and stories. The portfolio of historical documentaries covers numerous moments that have been unsung, hidden or simply forgotten. Sam and History Making Productions have been awarded 18 Emmys and were the 2021 Winners of the Ken Burns Prize for Film.

NEW A guided tour of Stenton offers an unparalleled experience of early Colonial Pennsylvania, as one of the most authentic historic houses furnished with period family possessions. Completed in 1730, it was home to six generations of the Logan family, as well as a diverse community of enslaved, indentured, and free laborers including Dinah who lived and labored at Stenton for over 50 years and is the subject of “For the Common Good: Women Who Shaped Our Nation – Dinah’s Story” a short video we will view. (3 Feet: Extenisve Walking and Lengthy periods of Standing.)

NEW John Dewey lived a long time and engaged with many interesting figures in American history. In honor of America's 250th birthday, explore Dewey's professional relationships with William James (philosophy), Jane Addams (education), Albert Barnes (art), and George Norris (politics). Enjoy an entertaining and instructive look at some of America's most fascinating minds at work.

NEW World PA 250 NEW "Quakers came to do good and ended up doing well." is oft repeated because there is so much truth to it. Examine the early Philadelphians who applied the Quaker Ethos to their business endeavors, experienced unrivaled prosperity, and enabled Philadelphia to become an economic force in the world.

The America that we know began as a unique idea; ordinary people could be sovereign citizens that would govern themselves. Turn back the pages of history two and a half centuries and examine how some extraordinary men, Hamilton, Knox, Madison and Morris, labored to make this idea a reality. Learn of their backgrounds and the interactions that allowed them to form history’s first and longest living people’s federal representative republic. 

With all natural materials, make a small, short handle broom, attractive and perfect to use with a dustpan. This craft requires moderate hand and arm strength, such as the strength to open a sealed jar. Materials included.

NEW Explore the impact of the eighteenth-century Enlightenment on Britain and her North American colonies. British thinkers contributed much of the intellectual foundations for the Enlightenment, and these ideas had a significant influence on Britain and her colonies. The results, however, could be dramatically different: in some instances leading to a rational style of living and in other cases political radicalism. Investigate these disparities in art and politics. Co taught by Jean French, Museum Educator (Ret.)