Top Ways To Celebrate Women's History Month 2013 In Philadelphia
Philadelphia could be called the birthplace of women's history considering Betsy Ross' contribution to the founding of America. It should be no surprise then, that other iconic women like Patti LaBelle, Grace Kelly and Tina Fey hail from the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. This March, celebrate Women's History Month with events and activities honoring local women of the past, present and future.
Betsy Ross House
239 Arch St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 629-4026
www.historicphiladelphia.org
The Betsy Ross House was built more than 250 years ago and is believed to be the place where Ross made the first American flag. Visitors can tour several rooms in the house, including an interpretation of what Betsy's upholstery shop may have looked like. Her personal belongings, from her petticoat to her Bible, are on display in the house as well. Families should visit the courtyard for family-friendly programming, storytelling and to meet a Betsy Ross impersonator.
Blues Babe Foundation
2233 N. Broad St., 2nd Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19132
(267) 324-5600
www.bluesbabefoundation.org
Support is sometimes all a girl needs to thrive. Philly native and Grammy winner Jill Scott started the Blues Babe Foundation in 2003 to help girls of color in both artistic and academic endeavors. Programs benefit girls ages 9-21 in both Philadelphia and Camden, NJ. Donations are welcomed to help fund activities and programs, like Camp Jill Scott, Music in the Classrooms and scholarships. Buying a t-shirt or journal from the foundation's Indigo store is a fashionable way to give and show support.
Susan B. Anthony Celebration
Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion
200 W. Tulpehocken St.
Philadelphia, PA 19144
(215) 438-1861
www.ebenezermaxwellmansion.org
Hours: March 16 - 7 p.m. or 9 p.m.
Price: $35
The only Victorian house museum in Philly is unveiling a new tour March 16, along with a celebration of Susan B. Anthony. As part of the Upstairs Downstairs Celebration, an actress portraying Anthony will perform her historic reading of The Declaration of Women's Rights. The Upstairs Downstairs tour, to be held on the first Friday of every month after the event, will focus on Victorian era Philadelphia women from working class to upper class. Guests can join the celebration event at either 7 p.m. or 9 p.m., but reservations are required.
Girl Scouts Of Eastern Pennsylvania
Shelley Ridge Service Center
330 Manor Road
Miquon, PA 19444
(215) 564-4657
www.gsep.org
Cookie season may have just ended, but local Girl Scouts have a variety of activities available to them throughout the month. Girls can become a member at any time and don't even have to join a troop or group to get involved. As a member, girls learn about their communities, build self-confidence and learn leadership skills. To learn more about scouting in Delaware, visit the Girl Scouts of Chesapeake Bay website. In New Jersey, visit the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey site.
National Constitution Center
525 Arch St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 409-6600
www.constitutioncenter.org
Hours: March 15 - 6:30 p.m.
Price: $25
Retired Justice Sandra Day O'Connor made history as the first woman appointed to the Supreme Court. On March 15 at 6:30 p.m., she will be in Philly to discuss her book, "Out of Order: Stories from the History of the Supreme Court," as part of the National Constitution Center's celebration of Women's History Month. Tickets to A Conversation with Justice Sandra Day O'Connor are available for $25 and include a copy of her book. In addition to the O'Connor's appearance, the museum will have exhibits all month, as well as two shows, "Philadelphia Girl Power" and "Women of Power."
Related: Women's History Month: Where Are We?
Samantha Sinclair is a freelance writer who lives in South Jersey. She has two boys who love "adventuring." Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
