Newsletter
April 2024
Spring is finally here!
This spring, celebrate the anniversary of the start of the Revolutionary War (April 19, 1775) with a visit to revolutionary Philadelphia! Gather your students and join us for an interactive walk around the historic district and hear some great stories about the people of the past. We can even help you arrange a cheesesteak lunch!
See you in Philly!
William Franklin
With a last name like "Franklin," you might think William was a great hero of the Revolutionary War. But it's actually the opposite.
William Franklin, son of Benjamin Franklin, was the Royal Governor of New Jersey when the Revolutionary War started. He had his father to thank for the position.
But instead of siding with Ben, he sided with the enemy. He went to jail for being a Loyalist - an American colonist who sided with the British. From jail, he sent secret letters to the British trying to help their side.
Portrait of William Franklin, c. 1790.
When the war was over, William went to live in England. He and his famous father never made up, and Benjamin Franklin left him nothing in his will when he died.
The Hill-Physick House
If you are interested in medical history, take a trip to the Hill-Physick House on 4th Street between Pine and Spruce - just a short walk from Independence Hall. Dr. Philip Syng Physick was one of the pioneers of early medicine, considered the father of American surgery.
Photo by ProfReader
This stunning home was built in 1786 after the Revolutionary War had ended, making it part of a new American style called "Federal." Read more about the Hill-Physick House and how to visit.
The Battle of Bunker Hill
The first major fight of the Revolutionary War was the Battle of Bunker Hill in June 1775. The American colonists were outnumbered, but managed to hold their own for over two hours. The people of Boston watched from their rooftops as smoke from musket fire blew over the city.
The Battle of Bunker Hill by Percy Moran, 1909
In the end, it was considered a British victory, even though the Americans had lost 450 men while the British had lost over 1,000. To learn more, read the extensive online exhibit on the Massachusetts Historical Society's website, which includes first-person accounts written by people who were there.
Book Your Field Trip Today!
Spring is busy in Philly, but there is still time to plan your field trip. Contact us today so we can help you plan your trip. We have options to fit every schedule.