For decades, descendants of Abigail Hartman Rice have hunted for evidence of their ancestor’s patriotic contribution to enshrine her in the nonprofit.
3 weeks ago
Listen 1:11The true origins of the first American flag are often debated – but many attribute its creation to Philly seamstress Betsy Ross.
4 weeks ago
Why some Philadelphians aren’t excited for America 250
With economic and political tension rising, not everyone is in the mood to celebrate America’s birthday this summer.
4 weeks ago
The 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 1:13How Philly is celebrating Juneteenth, the Fourth of July and the 250th in 2026
Block parties, fireworks and a star-studded concert on the Ben Franklin Parkway are on the calendar for a celebratory summer.
1 month ago
A Philadelphia arts festival asks: ‘What Now’? as the U.S. approaches its 250th birthday
“What Now: 2026” features 34 original premieres in visual and performing arts to “interrogate” America ahead of its semiquincentennial.
1 month ago
Listen 1:50Historic 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
The Chinese Lantern Fest usually features a traditional cultural experience. This year, it’s combining that with semiquincentennial moments.
1 month ago
Philadelphia sports industry insiders hope summer festivities will translate into new opportunities
Five panelists spoke at WHYY on Thursday, exploring the opportunities and challenges the city faces as America’s 250 celebrations include a packed sports schedule in Philly.
1 month ago
A new map spotlights Revolutionary War history in Bucks County
The educational tool provides information about more than a dozen historical sites connected with the American Revolution.
2 months ago
Listen 0:55History takes center stage: Philly theaters go all in telling America’s story ahead of 250th
From the classic “1776” to a play set entirely in Lincoln’s grave, Philly theater fans have lots of history-related shows to choose from.
2 months ago
America’s first hospital is right here in Philly – and it’s still operating to this day
After 275 years, Pennsylvania Hospital is still carrying out its mission to care for the sick, poor and mentally ill throughout the city.
2 months ago
The exhibit features multimedia installations created by 10 local artists that bring to life the once-obscure underground corridors of the water system.
2 months ago
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