History
The true origins of the first American flag are often debated – but many attribute its creation to Philly seamstress Betsy Ross.
4 weeks ago
With the nation's birthday just around the corner, will the city’s infrastructure will hold up as well as the Declaration of Independence?
Air Date: June 4, 2026 1:00 pm
Listen 51:11Philly slavery exhibit: David McCormick joins fight to restore President’s House Site
An appeals court will weigh the fate of the Independence Mall exhibit, which remains half-restored.
4 weeks ago
Listen 1:10The British army took control of Philadelphia in 1777. They had a whale of a time
The “dark days” of the British occupation were filled with parties, dancing and theater.
1 month ago
Listen 3:10Gorsuch and co-author Janie Nitze discussed their new children's book, “Heroes of 1776,” and the lessons the country’s founding era still offers today.
1 month ago
Listen 1:13All aboard! America’s first steamboat for passengers and freight left from Philadelphia
The country’s first steamboat carried passengers and freight thousands of miles back and forth between Philly and Burlington, New Jersey, charting new territory for travel.
1 month ago
Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story
The filmmakers behind a new PBS documentary share the stories of indigenous people, enslaved Africans, and other diverse communities that helped shape our nation.
Air Date: May 28, 2026 1:00 pm
Listen 51:42Historic Delaware museum marks America’s 250th with contemporary art that challenges America’s past
The Rockwood Museum pairs works by five regional artists with its historic collection to explore race, identity and who is included in “We the People.”
1 month ago
Listen 2:05America 250th: Philly event highlights youth perspectives on the American Revolution
The event, hosted by WHYY and Penn’s McNeil Center, brought together a panel of students and educators to discuss the meaning of democracy.
1 month ago
Philly celebrates its 150th anniversary as host to America’s First World Fair
The city’s Centennial Exposition in 1876 welcomed millions of visitors and showcased American industry and inventions.
1 month ago
The day honors the woman who escaped enslavement after fleeing President George Washington's home in 1796.
1 month ago
Listen 6:06Philly asked, and you decided: Here’s the quote that will be on the Harriet Tubman statue
The civil rights icon will be featured on a statue at City Hall later this year – and one Philly artist’s quote will be inscribed on its base.
1 month ago
On the edge of Black Bottom: A walk down Lancaster Avenue
This West Philly neighborhood is steeped in history that locals are eager to keep alive.
1 month ago
Alt Philly history: Walking tours to explore the city’s diverse cultural heritage
The Liberty Bell is nice, but Philadelphia has many other stories to tell.
1 month ago
Henry Tetlow helped shape America’s cosmetics industry with more affordable — less caustic — face powders before his company collapsed into a family feud.
2 months ago














