I grew up about 9 miles from Philadelphia in South Jersey. I worked in Philly at various times in my life and even lived there, in Queen Village, briefly. Thus, I’ve always considered the City of Brotherly Love my city.
I’m happy, therefore, that my city’s Historic Philadelphia Web site — and the city itself — are so story oriented. That’s one thing I’m celebrating on this, our nation’s 233rd birthday. Here’s what the site says:
Give the story of American Independence a little more personality. Hear history from the lips of the founding fathers themselves. Sneak into Independence Hall after hours. Get the true stories from professional storytellers, right in the places where history happened. Historic Philadelphia. History that speaks to you.
One particularly cool aspect is the city’s 13 Storytelling Benches, described like this:
Hear riveting stories of American history even most adults have never heard at 13 charming Storytelling Benches scattered around the Historic Philadelphia area. Our Once Upon A Nation storytellers aren’t dressed in colonial garb, but they’ll effortlessly transport you back in time as you sit on spacious and comfortable teak benches, all an easy stroll from one another. Stories last just a few minutes each and are told continuously during operating hours. You can start at any of the benches, all clearly marked with a “Once Upon A Nation” sign. And it’s completely FREE!
Happy Independence Day, America!
