March 8 was International Women’s Day, but we’re celebrating women’s contributions and history all month long. Learn about the women who shaped Philly and the nation at these upcoming tours and talks.
Badass Women’s History Tour
Beyond the Bell offers several history tours throughout the city, but this one is a feminist take on your typical history lesson. Go beyond your textbook to learn about Philly women’s role in medicine, the arts, and politics. Each tour is offered daily at 11 a.m.
Philadelphia Women’s History Trail
If you prefer to do things on your own time, you can take a self-guided tour along the Philadelphia Women’s History Trail. This tour takes you through 25 sites and historic markers in Philadelphia and its suburbs. Stops include the home of opera singer and activist Marian Anderson and a marker honoring abolitionist Anna E. Dickson.
Mural Arts
Philadelphia has thousands of murals splashed on its walls, many created by women, depicting women. Lace up your shoes and take your own tour around the city and spot the murals celebrating our city’s women.
National Constitution Center
Throughout March, the National Constitution Center is hosting exhibits and talks spotlighting remarkable women throughout American history. Programs include a self-guided women’s history artifact tour, an exploration of four women all named Harriet who confronted slavery, and a trivia game. Can’t make it in person? The museum has virtual programming on March 10 and 24.
The Gendered Republic
Join the Library Company of Philadelphia for a fireside chat on “The Gendered Republic: Reimagining Identity in the New Nation” on March 18. The talk will explore how gender roles shaped the lives of people of all races in early America and their lasting impact on cultures and laws.
Women, Religion & Revolution
Betsy Ross is one of the most famous historical figures in Philadelphia. And while her role in the American Revolution is iconic, she wasn’t the only woman contributing to the war effort. On March 22, Interfaith Philadelphia is leading a talk on the other unsung heroes during the colonial era. The discussion will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Historic St. George’s United Methodist Church.
Wondrous Women and Daring Dames
Both of Laurel Hill’s cemeteries are the eternal resting places for groundbreaking local figures. Walk the hallowed grounds and learn about the Wonderous Women of Laurel Hill West in Bala Cynwyd on March 22 or stay on the east side of the Schuylkill River by visiting the dames of Laurel Hill East on March 29.
