History

The birthplace of democracy got spruced up for America’s 250th celebrations.

Members of Avenging the Ancestors Coalition rallied at the Philly site Wednesday for the return of displays that were taken down last week by National Park Service employees.

“When a government starts hiding parts of its past,” local lawmakers wrote, “it begins to look more like a regime that rewrites history rather than one that learns from it.”

The first public Girl Scout cookie sale was held in Philly in 1933. The organization is celebrating by looking back at the growth they’ve made since then.

The removal enforces a White House executive order to remove exhibits “disparaging” American history. The city has filed a lawsuit.

The removal follows a White House directive to reshape how U.S. history is presented at national parks — sparking protest and a new city lawsuit.

The National Basketball League was formed in Philly in 1898, the Historic District and the Sixers have teamed up to commemorate it.

A rowhouse built around 1760 in Old City was once heated with firewood. Now, it has solar panels on its roof.

With a nod to King's vision for America, grassroots organizers aim to empower residents to "fight for their neighborhoods" amid mounting affordability pressures.

Organizers hope the day of service encourages people to volunteer year-round.

Artists Anika Grant and Nandi Jordan are producing “Ceremony for Revolutionary Seeds” this fall at historic sites in Camden, Fort Lee and Trenton.

The 18th-century building on the grounds of Washington Crossing Historic Park was the encampment site for some troops in December 1776.

Free admission, “Selma” screening and radical art-making are on the docket for the long weekend.

Here are some of the volunteer opportunities in Philadelphia, from neighborhood cleanups to early literacy training. Plus: a look at Temple University’s major service hub.

The Philadelphia Historic District’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday next highlights the nation’s first folk parade.