Philadelphia Historic African American Tours – Lauded as one of the most engaging step-on bus offerings, Charlene Palmore-Lewis’ 3.5-hour tour entwines what she refers to as “traditional” American history with African-American history, which predates William Penn’s arrival and stretches from Jamestown to today. Visitors discover four out of five of Penn’s original parks—including
Philadelphia history is African-American history:
- The nation’s birthplace and first World Heritage City is home to the founding church of the African Methodist Episcopal denomination (201-year-old Mother Bethel A.M.E.) and the country’s first major museum devoted to black American history (African American Museum in Philadelphia).
- Landmarks in Philadelphia’s Historic District, from the Liberty Bell to street-side Historical Markers, tell of the successes, struggles and contributions of African-Americans through the centuries. Beyond the original city, Philadelphia’s vibrant neighborhoods offer glimpses into the pasts of African-American whose impacts live on today (Marian Anderson Residence, Paul Robeson House).
- These Philadelphia museums, landmarks, churches and other sites present this rich history through a host of public programs, special exhibitions and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.