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African-American History in Philadelphia
The birthplace of freedom
Walk through the soaring new Liberty Bell Center, and the connection between the internationally famous icon of freedom and African American history becomes obvious.
A section of the Center is dedicated to the history of the Abolitionist Movement, which adopted the Bell and its inscribed quote from Leviticus - “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof” — as symbols of its anti-slavery activities.
Among other interpretive programs at the Liberty Bell Center you’ll find information about the slaves who served at the President’s House during George Washington’s tenure and the modern-day controversy surrounding the National Park Service’s efforts to tell their stories.
Those new specially marked benches you see throughout “America’s most historic square mile” — there are 14 in all — are more than a place to take a rest. They are part of a new program in the Historic District called Once Upon A Nation where you’ll meet modern-day storytellers who will transport you to another time and place with tales about some famous and not-so-famous historical characters.
When the Djembe drum starts beating in the shadows of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington Square, 6th and Walnut, you’ll hear how enslaved Africans, ripped from their homeland, gathered here to share and preserve their culture.
Stop at the bench by the National Constitution Center and hear the story of Peter, a slave who purchased his freedom and through a series of coincidences met his long-lost brother William Still, abolitionist, businessman and author.
But don’t stop there. Go on inside and explore the hands-on exhibits that depict how our government was formed. Take the presidential oath of office, vote on key legislation or cast you opinion on Supreme Court cases. Be sure to attend the multimedia theater presentation that delves into the history of the Constitution, warts and all.
Then, check out Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War, a special exhibition running June 10 through November 4, 2005 that examines Lincoln’s response to slavery, civil liberties, secession and the Civil War. One of only three copies of the 13th Amendment will be on display.
High-Tech History
Take an evening stroll through three centuries of history with Lights of Liberty, a multimedia show that utilizes special effects and some of America’s most important historic landmarks as a backdrop. At the same time that adults hear the story of American independence narrated by Walter Cronkite, Ossie Davis, Meryl Streep and other celebrities, kids listen to Whoopi Goldberg relate a special version of the story just for them.
History on Wheels
Back in 1777, George Washington and his troops endured what might be the world’s worst camping trip. Among those who endured that bitter winter were African American soldiers whose story is preserved in Determined to Persevere an exhibit at the new Welcome Center at Valley Forge National Historical Park. The Park is the first stop on a self-guided African American Heritage driving tour that winds throughout the countryside. Some sites, such as the Quaker Meeting House graveyard are open to the public, others are noted by historical markers.
From Pulpit to Protest
Philadelphia is rightfully known as “The Birthplace of Freedom.” In the 18th Century, its African and African-American residents represented the roots of the abolitionist movement that eventually led to the Civil War. In the 1960’s, modern Philadelphians devised public protests that drew attention to Civil Rights on a national scale. Momentum for powerful political change often sprung from the pulpits of Philadelphia’s visionary American churches. Throughout the centuries, church leaders relentlessly pursued social justice and helped implement programs to rectify the racism experienced by their congregations.
In 1787, black founding fathers, Richard Allen and Absalom Jones, started the Free African Society, the very first black self-help organization. Richard Allen also founded Mother Bethel, the first African Methodist Episcopal church, a focal point of black life and a key stop on the Underground Railroad. Visit the church and museum and follow Richard Allen’s journey from slavery to bishop and human rights leader.
In the same spirit of freedom, Rev. Paul Washington allowed controversial groups like the Black Panthers to meet in his Church of the Advocate during the 60’s and 70’s and Rev. Dr. Leon Sullivan, “the Lion” of Zion Baptist Church built the first black owned shopping center, Progress Plaza, and began the Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) now known throughout the world. Step into these churches in North Philadelphia and experience the legacy of two national leaders.
Local legend has it that in 1931 the popular church leader Father Divine was arrested for disturbing the peace after trying to settle complaints about traffic in the area. The judge refused to show leniency and sentenced the good Father to one year in prison.Two days later, the judge died and Father Divine took the credit. Search for proof of his powers and learn more about his Universal Peace Mission Movement at Woodmont, the estate where his body is enshrined, or his Divine Lorraine Hotel, the first integrated hotel in Philadelphia.
From the Liberty Bell to Around the Block
Philadelphia’s attractions aren’t limited to its unique African-American museums and historical sites. The city itself, its neighborhoods and residents, both past and present, also represent its culture and legacy of individuality. Visit Philadelphia and watch history come alive.
Some Philadelphia stories just can’t fit in a museum! Get caught up in the drama of “Philadelphia’s Civil Rights Struggle” with the seasonal Philadelphia Neighborhood Tours on their tour of North Philly. Hear first-hand accounts of protests by the people who participated in them. The soul food meal at the end just adds more spice to the occasion. You can also take a guided tour of the Mural Arts Program, or use their detailed self-guided map to discover some of Philly’s 2,000 public murals on your own.
What is it about Philadelphia that moves so many African-American intellectuals to call it home? Visit the Paul Robeson House to find out why this extraordinary 20th century humanitarian, performer and athlete chose to live his final years in seclusion in Philadelphia. Indeed, it was here in 1896 that W. E. B. DuBois began to study blacks as a social system. In his book The Philadelphia Negro, he states his radical position on race relations in America. According to DuBois, agitation was the only avenue to social change.
In the 18th century, Philadelphia was home to the largest community of free African Americans. On the “Taking a Stand for Freedom”, Underground Railroad tour, also part of the seasonal Philadelphia Neighborhood Tours, you can participate in an abolitionist meeting at the Johnson House and sample treats like authentic bread pudding with brandy apricot sauce. Or visit the Johnson House on your own and learn what secrets signaled the path to freedom at this stop on the Underground Railroad.
Are you eager to see the whole picture of black life in Philadelphia through the centuries? Visit the African-American Museum in Philadelphia. Are you an avid collector? Take a look at the Doll Museum, a smaller museum dedicated to telling the story of how black people have been perceived by showcasing black dolls from around the world. Need to catch up on your reading? Take a look at Charles Blockson’s Afro-American Collection of rare books and archives on the African diaspora and African-American history located at Temple University.
From Doo-Wop to Hip-Hop
The contributions Philadelphia’s black residents have made to American music have been “keeping it real” for generations. Just like their church predecessors and political contemporaries, modern African-American musicians in Philadelphia remain tied to their community.
Rev. Charles Tindley is widely known as “The Father of Gospel Music.” Considered “the people’s pastor,” Tindley helped create a new genre of church music in the 20’s and 30’s. The hymns he wrote dealt with real life situations and the day-to-day struggles of his parishioners. Visit Tindley Temple United Methodist Church, and delve into the life of a man who religiously “practiced what he preached.”
Marian Anderson became a politicized public figure during that same era. Her beautifully trained contralto voice opened doors for her to sing with the Metropolitan Opera and renowned orchestras. Still, racial prejudice often closed the curtain on her performances in the United States. Find out why Eleanor Roosevelt took special interest in the fate of this talented Philadelphian at the Marion Anderson Historical Residence/ Museum.
In the 40’s and 50’s, North Philly’s streets were lit day and night with concert halls, theaters, nightclubs and bars showcasing the best of local, national and international talent. The post-war period did not put a damper on the city’s music scene as it evolved from big band to swing to jazz. Doo-Wop moved from the neighborhood street corners to national radio, while American masters like Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker bewildered audiences with Be-Bop, as modern jazz was originally known.
John Coltrane arrived in Philadelphia in the mid 40’s as an impressionable 19 year-old man. The neighborhood where this future jazz pioneer set up his family home was in transition as southern blacks began to relocate up north. By the time he left Philly in 1955, Coltrane was asked to join the prestigious Miles Davis Band. Check out, “A Few of His Favorite Things,” at the John Coltrane House.
The Sound of Philadelphia
Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff helped usher Philadelphia away from 60’s American Bandstand and into the soulful 70’s. This duo gained national success as record producers who influenced the music of the decade. Gamble & Huff created their signature “Philly Sound” by combining various styles of black music: doo-wop from the streets, gospel from the churches and the dance beat of neighborhood night clubs. Stop by Philadelphia International Records to learn more about this influential pair.
In the last few years, Philadelphia has established itself as center of the “Neo-Soul” explosion. Philly natives, like Jill Scott, may object to the term, but critics are still struggling to describe the distinct vibe of the live music scene from which these artists emerged. The sound of Philly favorites, The Roots and Musiq, reflect their rare emphasis on musicianship and the rich history of hip-hop, R&B, and soul.
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