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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260711T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260711T120000
DTSTAMP:20260616T194729Z
CREATED:20260615T204835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260616T194729Z
UID:12643-1783765800-1783771200@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Walk Across the Ben Franklin Bridge
DESCRIPTION:Calling all walkers not afraid of heights! On Saturday\, July 11 (rain date\, Sunday July 12)\, the Ben Franklin Bridge will commemorate its 100-year anniversary. During this event\, the bridge will be closed to traffic. The main celebration will take place on the Camden\, NJ side near the Ben Franklin Bridge toll plaza. Enjoy live music\, performances\, food trucks\, carnival rides\, and family-friendly activities. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with historical content\, including a pop-up museum highlighting the bridge’s legacy. Exhibits will showcase bridge artifacts and pieces from throughout its history. \nCome celebrate this milestone by walking across the bridge. We thought it would be fun for all members of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) to walk across as a group. We’ll meet at Historic St. George’s United Methodist Church (235 N. 4th St.) at 10:30 am. Join the celebration! Pack a bottle of water and wear good sneakers. All are welcome. \nContact APT Treasurer Antoinette Langeveld with any questions treasurer@phillyguides.org. For more information: https://www.drpa.org/bfb100/. \n 
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/walk-across-the-ben-franklin-bridge/
LOCATION:Historic St. George’s United Methodist Church\, 235 N. 4th Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19106\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2015-5-20-Ben-Franklin-Bridge-copy-e1781639227217.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T160000
DTSTAMP:20260531T204353Z
CREATED:20260531T204353Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260531T204353Z
UID:12600-1781960400-1781971200@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks by Tour Guides
DESCRIPTION:Members of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will present a teach-in\, HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks with Tour Guides\, at various sites within Independence National Historic Park (INHP) on Saturday\, June 20 from 1-4 pm. These free\, short significant snippets of history will include the history of Blacks and other marginalized groups. Participants can follow a route that starts at the Visitor Center\, continues past the President’s House\, Liberty Bell Center\, and goes along Chestnut Street to Congress Hall\, Independence Hall\, and Old City Hall. They can visit all five stops or take in as many as time and interest allow. The stories at each site are not sequential. \nThose who would like a little extra explanation and some camaraderie can join free tours that will leave the Independence Visitor Center at 1:15\, 2:15\, and 3:15 pm to escort guests around to all five sites. Look for the APT table and ‘Ask Me’ name tags! \nThis public education program is APT’s response to the March 27\, 2025 executive order “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.” This order directed the secretary of the Department of the Interior to make sure that displays at national parks do not “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living (including persons living in colonial times).” Instead\, he said\, they are to “focus on the greatness of the achievements and progress of the American people.” \nTo make sure the full American history is not lost or forgotten\, guides will discuss true stories about colonial slavery\, Black resistance and self-determination\, and other underrepresented narratives in early American life. The public is encouraged to attend the HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks with Tour Guides to learn a more complete account of our country’s history. \nThe event is free\, nonpartisan\, and family-friendly. No registration is required. All are welcome!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/history-matters-free-talks-by-tour-guides-7/
LOCATION:Independence National Historic Park\, 599 Market Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/History-Matters-Talks-1.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260616T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260616T110000
DTSTAMP:20260205T173643Z
CREATED:20260107T133047Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260205T173643Z
UID:10939-1781604000-1781607600@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Tour Guide Coffee Break
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) is organizing a tour guide coffee break on Tuesday\, June 16 at 10 am at the back of the Independence Visitor Center (IVC) at 6th and Market Streets. No set topics\, just good guide talk in a casual setting. Everyone is welcome. Wear your APT lanyard and you should get 10% off your coffee\, beverage\, and more at the Independence Café. Everyone is responsible for their own drinks or snacks. \nNo need to reply – just show up!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/tour-guide-coffee-break-22/
LOCATION:Independence Visitor Center\, 599 Market St.\, 1 N. Independence Mall W.\, Philadelphia\, 19106
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Coffee-mug-e1770312991679.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260615T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260615T130000
DTSTAMP:20260615T105604Z
CREATED:20260521T115151Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260615T105604Z
UID:12411-1781521200-1781528400@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Tour of Historic Rittenhouse Town
DESCRIPTION:ONLINE REGISTRATIONS FOR THIS VISIT ARE CLOSED. Please text APT member Judy Smith with any questions or problems day of 609-670-4783.  \nThe Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) has arranged a visit to Historic Rittenhouse Town on Monday\, June 15 at 11 am. This will be a two-hour outing with a guided tour for $6. \nHistoric Rittenhouse Town\, located in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park\, is an historic village featuring seven original buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries\, including the 1707 Rittenhouse Homestead and the 1753 Bake House. \nIn 1687\, papermaker William Rittenhouse purchased a plot of land by a tributary of the Wissahickon Creek and with his son\, Nicholas\, built the first paper mill in British North America. For 40 years the Rittenhouse family were the only papermakers in America! Eight generations of the Rittenhouse family lived and worked there for almost 200 years. At its peak in the mid-19th century\, Historic Rittenhouse Town was a self-contained industrial community comprised of about forty buildings which produced paper\, textiles\, and grain. \nToday Historic Rittenhouse Town is a designated National Historic Landmark District that is a museum and education center offering historic tours\, papermaking workshops\, hearth cooking\, demonstrations\, and more. \nScroll down to pay the $6 discounted registration fee. Deadline to sign up is Sunday\, June 14 at midnight. Contact APT Director-at-Large vpmccafferty@msn.com with any questions. Join us for an enlightening and fun day! \n  \nPhoto by Al Cassidy\, courtesy of Historic Rittenhouse Town.
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/apt-june-outing-to-historic-rittenhouse-town/
LOCATION:Rittenhouse Town\, 6034 Wissahickon Avenue\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19144\, United States
CATEGORIES:Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Rittenhouse-Town-Photo-2026-e1781021366411.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260613T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260613T110000
DTSTAMP:20260330T214154Z
CREATED:20260330T214030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T214154Z
UID:12159-1781341200-1781348400@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:APT Certification Exam in June
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) written Certification Exam\, based mainly on information in the APT HANDBOOK\, covers the history\, people\, and places of importance in Philadelphia. It tests knowledge of the basic facts about the city that any guide giving solid\, professional tours of both the Historic District and Center City would know. \nThe next exam will be held on Saturday\, June 13\, 9-11 am at Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, upstairs. \nDeadline to register is Thursday\, June 11. Please pay in the APT Store and email the APT President at president@phillyguides.org if you are interested in taking the exam on June 13. We want to make sure we have enough copies! \nThose who paid for the exam previously and didn’t sit for it or did sit for it and didn’t pass do not have to pay the fee again. They do\, however\, need to register with the APT President.  \nClick here for more information.
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/apt-certification-exam-in-june-2/
LOCATION:Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19106\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/newly-certif-w-ed-e1774906899807.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260610T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260610T203000
DTSTAMP:20260518T005345Z
CREATED:20260508T193809Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T005345Z
UID:12339-1781118000-1781123400@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Philadelphia’s Quakers in Exile\, 1777-78
DESCRIPTION:The next monthly meeting of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will be held on Wednesday\, June 10 at 7 pm. APT has invited scholar and historian Ned Donoghue to speak on his book\, Prisoners of Congress: Philadelphia’s Quakers in Exile\, 1777-1778\, which uncovers a Revolutionary War story that is mostly forgotten today. \nDid you know that in 1777\, the Continental Congress condemned Quakers as an internal threat to the new republic? Neighbors quickly became suspects. The book follows four Philadelphia-area families as they are swept into political crisis. Drawing on letters\, diaries\, and official records\, this is the story of 17 Quakers who were forcibly removed from Pennsylvania and imprisoned in Virginia. Stripped of habeas corpus protections\, they became the nation’s first political prisoners. \nNorman E. “Ned” Donoghue II grew up in West Chester and graduated from Williams College and Duke Law School. For 34 years\, he practiced law as a partner at Dechert\, and served five years as a founding fundraiser for both the Princess Grace Foundation-USA in New York City and on staff for The Philadelphia Orchestra Association. Ned writes as an independent scholar/historian. His prime focus has been pacifists during the American Revolution\, but he has recently widened his scope to write a manuscript about Woodrow Wilson. Ned lives in Philadelphia and on the eastern shore of Maryland. You can learn more about Ned here. \nCome early for dinner and drinks! The meeting will be in-person at Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, upstairs\, and livestreamed on Zoom. The Zoom link will be available in the APT Tour Talk newsletter the week of the meeting; non-members should contact Marianne Ruane president@phillyguides.org no later than 5 pm the day of the meeting to receive the link. A recording will be available on the APT YouTube page for a month following the talk. \nAPT meetings are open to aspiring and working tour guides as well as anyone with an interest in Philadelphia-focused history. Attend one meeting for free and then it is $60 to join the association for the year or $10 per monthly meeting in-person event. Zoom meetings are free. Please join us for convivial company\, good food\, fascinating presentations\, and lively discussions! \n 
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/philadelphias-quakers-in-exile-1777-78/
LOCATION:Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19106\, United States
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Ned-Donoghue-e1778270299174.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260604T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260604T130000
DTSTAMP:20260604T101700Z
CREATED:20260518T010918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T101700Z
UID:12381-1780574400-1780578000@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Tour of the Johnson House in Historic Germantown
DESCRIPTION:REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT HAS CLOSED. CONTACT ED MITINGER DIRECTLY WITH ANY QUESTIONS 215-779-7805\, mitchor@verizon.net.  \nThe Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) has arranged an outing to the Johnson House in Historic Germantown on Thursday\, June 4 at 12 pm.  This will be a one-hour docent-guided tour for $5.  \nThe Johnson House Historic Site\, an Underground Railroad Station and Center for Social Advocacy\, was home to three generations of the Johnsons\, a Quaker family who\, with others — free and enslaved — worked to abolish slavery\, to secure safe passage to freedom along the Underground Railroad\, and to improve living conditions for freed African Americans. \nThe house was owned by the Johnson family from its construction in 1768 until its sale in 1908. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1997. The Johnson House is one of Philadelphia’s few intact historic sites and way stations on the Underground Railroad that is open for tours. \nPayment can be made in the APT Store (‘field trip: tour or site visit’). Contact APT Director-at-Large vpmccafferty@msn.com with any questions. This site is a must visit! Join us for an informative tour. \n  \nPhoto by Jessica Burghaus from the Johnson House website
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/tour-of-the-johnson-house-in-historic-germantown/
LOCATION:Johnson House\, 6306 Germantown Avenue\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19144\, United States
CATEGORIES:Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/johnson-house.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260527T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260527T203000
DTSTAMP:20260426T231915Z
CREATED:20260422T204948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260426T231915Z
UID:12225-1779908400-1779913800@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Anthony Benezet: 1776 Trailblazer
DESCRIPTION:Join the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) for a webinar by APT corporate member Vance Lehmkuhl of the American Vegan Center to learn about a 1776 trailblazer on Wednesday\, May 27 at 7 pm on Zoom. Where he’s known at all\, Anthony Benezet’s reputation is as a refugee from France\, educational innovator\, and pioneering abolitionist. But with the 250th anniversary of 1776\, it’s worth noting how this soft-spoken Quaker paved the way for the Founding Fathers’ “Patriot” crusade. \nThis webinar for tour guides will highlight Benezet’s key role in popularizing both “natural rights” language (in the 1760s) and public opposition to British slavery among the colonists (in the 1770s)\, in addition to his seminal role in bringing his fellow Quakers to a game-changing milestone in 1776. We’ll also show how Benezet’s tireless work within the human sphere was tied to his revolutionary advocacy for animals. \nThis Zoom presentation is free and all are welcome. To receive the Zoom link\, please RSVP below by Wednesday\, May 27 at 6 pm. Questions? Email Marianne Ruane at president@phillyguides.org. Please join us – it’s a great opportunity to up your tour guide game with some lesser known history!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/anthony-benezet-1776-trailblazer/
LOCATION:Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Anthony-Benezet--e1776891057131.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T203000
DTSTAMP:20260426T213020Z
CREATED:20260320T150039Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260426T213020Z
UID:12082-1779303600-1779309000@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Book Club for May
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will hold its next book club meeting on Wednesday\, May 20 at 7 pm on Zoom (Note new day. Book Club is typically scheduled for the third Tuesday of the month). There is no fee to attend and everyone is welcome. Participants should come ready to discuss the book. The selection is Prisoners of Congress: Philadelphia Quakers in Exile\, 1777-1778 by Norman Donoghue II\, which details the 1777 exile of 19 prominent Philadelphia Quakers to Virginia by the Continental Congress\, who viewed their refusal to support the war effort as dangerous to national security. \nThe book explores this event through the experiences of four families (Drinkers\, Fishers\, Pembertons\, and Gilpins)\, examining the conflict between individual liberties and wartime security\, and how the once-powerful Quakers became political prisoners. Published in 2023\, it’s considered the first comprehensive scholarly work on this episode\, highlighting the tension between pacifism and patriotism during the Revolution. \nThe Zoom link will be sent out the week of the meeting in the APT Tour Talk email. Non-members who wish to attend should contact APT Secretary Pam Covey phillyguides@gmail.com by 5 pm the day of the meeting to get the Zoom link.
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/book-club-for-may-2/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Book Club
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Prisoners-of-Congress.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260519T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260519T200000
DTSTAMP:20260519T214215Z
CREATED:20260414T184145Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260519T214215Z
UID:12187-1779215400-1779220800@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:May Outing to McGillin’s Olde Ale House
DESCRIPTION:Online registrations are now closed. Contact Vince (info below) with any questions.  \nThe Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) has arranged a special evening program at McGillin’s Olde Ale House\, Philadelphia’s oldest bar\, on Tuesday\, May 19. Doors open at at 6:30 pm and the program starts at 7 pm. Be sure to sign up! Reservation details are below. \nChris Mullins\, co-owner of the family-owned bar\, and Irene Levy Baker\, author of the newly-published Cheers to McGillin’s: Philly’s Oldest Bar\, will share stories about the bar and how it survived the Civil War\, two world wars\, two pandemics\, a fire\, and even Prohibition! You’ll hear tales of yesteryear\, ghost stories\, love stories\, and modern day secrets revealed over beers and cheers at McGillin’s Olde Ale House. \nTickets are $10 each and include: \n\nBook talk\nOne drink ticket\n Snacks\nA coupon for use towards a discounted lunch and at the new McGillin’s Shoppe\n\nIrene’s book as well as additional food and drink will be available for purchase. McGillin’s is located at 1310 Drury Street. You can purchase your ticket in the APT store\, ‘field trip: tour or site visit.’ Contact APT Director-at-Large Vince McCafferty vpmccafferty@msn.com with any questions. Join us for a relaxed\, fun\, and informative evening!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/may-outing-to-mcgillins-olde-ale-house/
LOCATION:McGillin’s Olde Ale House\, 1310 Drury Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19107\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/McGillins-book.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260519T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260519T110000
DTSTAMP:20260205T173747Z
CREATED:20260107T132840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260205T173747Z
UID:10937-1779184800-1779188400@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Tour Guide Coffee Break
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) is organizing a tour guide coffee break on Tuesday\, May 19 at 10 am at the back of the Independence Visitor Center (IVC) at 6th and Market Streets. No set topics\, just good guide talk in a casual setting. Everyone is welcome. Wear your APT lanyard and you should get 10% off your coffee\, beverage\, and more at the Independence Café. Everyone is responsible for their own drinks or snacks. \nNo need to reply – just show up!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/tour-guide-coffee-break-21/
LOCATION:Independence Visitor Center\, 599 Market St.\, 1 N. Independence Mall W.\, Philadelphia\, 19106
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Coffee-mug-e1770312991679.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260518T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260518T203000
DTSTAMP:20260511T201313Z
CREATED:20260505T190400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T201313Z
UID:12309-1779130800-1779136200@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Philadelphia 2026 Zoom
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) is excited to host a Zoom presentation\, “Philadelphia 2026\,” on Monday\, May 18 at 7 pm with Michael Newmuis\, the City of Philadelphia’s 2026 Director\, and Tom Caramanico and Maiti Gallen from the Independence Historical Trust (IHT). \nMichael Newmuis is a solutions-driven executive who recently served as Head of Impact at FS Investments\, a global asset manager with $76 billion in assets\, and Executive Director of the FS Foundation. Before FS Investments\, he served as Chief External Affairs Officer and Chief of Staff at Visit Philadelphia\, the region’s official tourism marketing agency. During his tenure\, he contributed to the successful execution of visionary events including the 2017 NFL Draft\, the 2016 Democratic National Convention\, and the 2015 World Meeting of Families commemorating Pope Francis’ first United States visit. \nHe will discuss preparations for more than 500\,000 visitors who are coming to Philadelphia this summer to experience several major events\, such as the FIFA World Cup soccer games\, the Major League Baseball All-Star Game\, and the 250th anniversary of America’s founding. \nSince 1972\, the Independence Historical Trust has proudly served as the philanthropic partner to Independence National Historical Park\, working alongside many dedicated allies to support Philadelphia’s national parks and the vibrant communities that surround them. A key part of the Trust’s mission has always been raising the critical funds needed to help prepare for defining moments in the nation’s history\, from the Bicentennial of the Declaration of Independence in 1976 to the Bicentennial of the Constitution in 1987\, and now the exciting lead-up to the Semiquincentennial in 2026. \nJoin Executive Director Tom Caramanico and Director of Operations Maiti Gallen for a conversation about the projects currently underway and nearing completion for 2026. These initiatives are designed to support the incredible work of the National Park Service\, improve connectivity and the visitor experience throughout the historic district\, and help welcome millions of visitors from around the world during this once in a generation moment for Philadelphia and the nation. \nThis is a great opportunity to get updates on plans for 2026! You’ll want to be ready to share all of them with guests. Please RSVP below by Monday\, May 18 at 6 pm to receive the Zoom link. Contact APT Vice President Alex Morigi with any questions vicepresident@phillyguides.org. Sign up today to get this crucial information – the festivities will be here tomorrow!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/philadelphia-2026-zoom/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-panel-e1778465451949.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260516T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260516T160000
DTSTAMP:20260427T005602Z
CREATED:20260226T184501Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T005602Z
UID:11898-1778936400-1778947200@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks by Tour Guides
DESCRIPTION:Members of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will present a teach-in\, HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks with Tour Guides\, at various sites within Independence National Historic Park (INHP) on Saturday\, May 16 from 1-4 pm. These free\, short significant snippets of history will include the history of Blacks and other marginalized groups. Participants can follow a route that starts at the Visitor Center\, continues past the President’s House\, Liberty Bell Center\, and goes along Chestnut Street to Congress Hall\, Independence Hall\, and Old City Hall. They can visit all five stops or take in as many as time and interest allow. The stories at each site are not sequential. \nThose who would like a little extra explanation and some camaraderie can join free tours that will leave the Independence Visitor Center at 1:15\, 2:15\, and 3:15 pm to escort guests around to all five sites. Look for the APT table and ‘Ask Me’ name tags! \nThis public education program is APT’s response to the March 27\, 2025 executive order “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.” This order directed the secretary of the Department of the Interior to make sure that displays at national parks do not “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living (including persons living in colonial times).” Instead\, he said\, they are to “focus on the greatness of the achievements and progress of the American people.” \nTo make sure the full American history is not lost or forgotten\, guides will discuss true stories about colonial slavery\, Black resistance and self-determination\, and other underrepresented narratives in early American life. The public is encouraged to attend the HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks with Tour Guides to learn a more complete account of our country’s history. \nThe event is free\, nonpartisan\, and family-friendly. No registration is required. All are welcome!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/history-matters-free-talks-by-tour-guides-6/
LOCATION:Independence National Historic Park\, 599 Market Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/History-Matters-Talks-1.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260513T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260513T203000
DTSTAMP:20260414T162415Z
CREATED:20260414T161754Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T162415Z
UID:12178-1778698800-1778704200@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Colonial Jewish History
DESCRIPTION:  \n\nThe next monthly meeting of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will be held on Wednesday\, May 13 at 7 pm. To commemorate Jewish American Heritage Month\, APT has invited Dr. Michael Schatz of Philadelphia Jewish History Tours who will present on Jewish history in the colonial era in Philadelphia. He’ll also highlight various sites in and around Center City as they connect to Jewish immigration periods\, and touch on contemporary Jewish community in Center City today. \nDr. Schatz is a native of Philadelphia whose family has lived in the region since the turn of the 20th century. He holds bachelor’s\, master’s\, and doctoral degrees in education and Jewish studies from Vassar College\, Arcadia University\, and Gratz College. He is a career Jewish educator\, currently serving as principal of the religious school at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley and eastern regional manager of Hebrew Helpers\, Inc. Dr. Schatz lives in Elkins Park and has been married to Elyse\, a reading specialist\, for 32 years. They are the parents of two grown children: Leah\, a reading specialist who lives in Center City\, and David\, a U.S. Marine who is based in North Carolina. \nDr. Schatz has been offering tours on Jewish history in Philadelphia and its surrounding neighborhoods since 2016. \nCome early for dinner and drinks! The meeting will be in-person at Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, upstairs\, and livestreamed on Zoom. The Zoom link will be available in the APT Tour Talk newsletter the week of the meeting; non-members should contact Marianne Ruane president@phillyguides.org no later than 5 pm the day of the meeting to receive the link. A recording will be available on the APT YouTube page for a month following the talk. \nAPT meetings are open to aspiring and working tour guides as well as anyone with an interest in Philadelphia-focused history. Attend one meeting for free and then it is $60 to join the association for the year or $10 per monthly meeting in-person event. Zoom meetings are free. Please join us for convivial company\, good food\, fascinating presentations\, and lively discussions!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/colonial-jewish-history/
LOCATION:Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19106\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/michael-w-logo-e1776183421864.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260503T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260503T200000
DTSTAMP:20260422T030148Z
CREATED:20260421T113400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T030148Z
UID:12205-1777834800-1777838400@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:APT Zoom - Black HISTORY MATTERS Stories
DESCRIPTION:Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) member Bob Branch\, who is often out and about portraying Bishop Richard Allen\, will share Black history stories from his days working at the Once Upon Nation storytelling benches on Sunday\, May 3 from 7-8 pm. While this is especially helpful for those who volunteer with the ‘HISTORY MATTERS Free Talks with Tour Guides’ every third Saturday\, all members are welcome and encouraged to attend this free virtual session. \nStories will include: \n\nBy the Book: Fugitive slave trial at Independence Hall. Judge Jacob Rush\, brother of Dr. Benjamin Rush\, sets escaped slave free because of Bible verse vs. Fugitive Slave Act of 1793.\nDemocratic Decision: In 1817\, 3000 free Africans meet at Mother Bethel AME Church and unanimously decide to remain in the US despite being denied citizenship and attendance at July 4th celebrations at Independence Hall.\nSpeaking Out for Freedom: In 1844\, Frederick Douglass gives a speech at Independence Hall talking about the irony of slavery existing in the land of the free.\nThe Sailor and Isaac Hopper – The Inventors of the Underground Railroad: In 1787\, as the Constitution is being written\, Isaac Hopper\, a Quaker\, organizes a group of Quakers in Philadelphia to help an enslaved sailor escape to freedom.\nJames Forten: On July 8\, 1776\, Forten\, who was nine years-old and born free\, hears the Declaration of Independence read aloud for the first time. He becomes a patriotic 14 year-old who serves on a privateer ship\, is captured\, but refuses to go to England. Later he becomes a wealthy sailmaker in Philadelphia who becomes disenchanted with slavery and racism in the US.\nOna Judge: In 1796\, free Africans in Philadelphia help Martha Washington’s enslaved servant escape from the President’s House.\nA Great Curiosity: In 1796\, a Free African with Vitiligo\, Henry Moss\, charges 25 cents for his performances at the Black Horse Tavern. President Washington and Dr. Benjamin Rush attend. Because of this\, Rush believes that all Africans are diseased and tries to cure them of their dark skin.\n\nPlease RSVP below to receive the Zoom link a day or so before the session. Reservations will close at 6 pm on May 3. Questions? Email Marianne Ruane at president@phillyguides.org. This is a really great opportunity to hear a veteran guide deliver some great Black history stories – sign up today and help to keep this history alive!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/apt-zoom-history-matters-stories/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Bob-Branch.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T110000
DTSTAMP:20260205T173843Z
CREATED:20260107T132632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260205T173843Z
UID:10935-1776765600-1776769200@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Tour Guide Coffee Break
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) is organizing a tour guide coffee break on Tuesday\, April 21 at 10 am at the back of the Independence Visitor Center (IVC) at 6th and Market Streets. No set topics\, just good guide talk in a casual setting. Everyone is welcome. Wear your APT lanyard and you should get 10% off your coffee\, beverage\, and more at the Independence Café. Everyone is responsible for their own drinks or snacks. \nNo need to reply – just show up!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/tour-guide-coffee-break-20/
LOCATION:Independence Visitor Center\, 599 Market St.\, 1 N. Independence Mall W.\, Philadelphia\, 19106
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Coffee-mug-e1770312991679.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T160000
DTSTAMP:20260226T184238Z
CREATED:20260226T184150Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T184238Z
UID:11896-1776517200-1776528000@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks by Tour Guides
DESCRIPTION:Members of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will present a teach-in\, HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks with Tour Guides\, at various sites within Independence National Historic Park (INHP) on Saturday\, April 18 from 1-4 pm. These free\, short significant snippets of history will include the history of Blacks and other marginalized groups. Participants can follow a route that starts at the Visitor Center\, continues past the President’s House\, Liberty Bell Center\, and goes along Chestnut Street to Congress Hall\, Independence Hall\, and Old City Hall. They can visit all five stops or take in as many as time and interest allow. The stories at each site are not sequential. \nThose who would like a little extra explanation and some camaraderie can join free tours that will leave the Independence Visitor Center at 1:15\, 2:15\, and 3:15 pm to escort guests around to all five sites. Look for the APT table and ‘Ask Me’ name tags! If it’s very cold\, we’ll tell stories from inside the Independence Visitor Center. \nThis public education program is APT’s response to the March 27\, 2025 executive order “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.” This order directed the secretary of the Department of the Interior to make sure that displays at national parks do not “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living (including persons living in colonial times).” Instead\, he said\, they are to “focus on the greatness of the achievements and progress of the American people.” \nTo make sure the full American history is not lost or forgotten\, guides will discuss true stories about colonial slavery\, Black resistance and self-determination\, and other underrepresented narratives in early American life. The public is encouraged to attend the HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks with Tour Guides to learn a more complete account of our country’s history. \nThe event is free\, nonpartisan\, and family-friendly. No registration is required. All are welcome!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/history-matters-free-talks-by-tour-guides-5/
LOCATION:Independence National Historic Park\, 599 Market Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event,Tour
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/History-Matters-Talks-1.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260410T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260410T113000
DTSTAMP:20260319T140258Z
CREATED:20260319T135712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T140258Z
UID:12034-1775815200-1775820600@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Cultural Diplomacy Training Session
DESCRIPTION:The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia is offering the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) a FREE\, in-person “Crash Course on Cultural Diplomacy: Welcoming the World with Excellence\,” on Friday\, April 10 at 10 am at their office\, 1617 JFK Blvd.\, Suite 1660\, Philadelphia. This session will be geared specifically to tour guides\, although all members are welcome to attend whether working as guides and docents or not. Let’s prepare for the international visitors coming this year! It’s a great additional credential to add to your resume. \nPlease register at this link \nThis 90-minute interactive session will serve as a practical\, quick start guide to help participants integrate these lessons and apply them holistically in real-world intercultural settings. Cultural diplomacy isn’t just about knowing the facts; it’s about developing the mindset\, skills\, and sensitivity to engage with others across cultural differences in a respectful\, effective\, and inclusive way. \nLearning Objectives: \n\n\n\nIdentify the major areas where cultural differences appear in social and professional settings;\nSummarize best practices for respectful communication\, etiquette\, and cross-cultural engagement; and\nApply a culturally sensitive lens to real-life scenarios in diplomacy\, business\, and community work.
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/cultural-diplomacy-training-session/
LOCATION:World Affairs Council\, 1617 John F. Kennedy Boulevard\, Suite 1600\, Philadelphia\, PA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Training Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/wac--e1773928959809.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260408T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260408T203000
DTSTAMP:20260323T235528Z
CREATED:20260320T153515Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T235528Z
UID:12089-1775674800-1775680200@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Thomas Paine's Common Sense
DESCRIPTION:The next monthly meeting of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will be held on Wednesday\, April 8 at 7 pm. Local historian\, Jim Seagrave-Daly\, will present a lively discussion of Thomas Paine’s revolutionary contribution that persuaded Americans to support independence. \nOn January 9\, 1776\, the most important pamphlet in American history (Common Sense) was published by an unknown author whose life had been full of failure and disappointment. Known as the “English Voltaire” and “The first man of the Revolution”\, Thomas Paine made a forceful case for separation from England when many Americans considered such a move foolish and fatal. \nJim Segrave-Daly\, also known as The Local History Geek\, is an accomplished speaker specializing in American History with national experience leading lectures in person and virtually. With deep family connections to the American Revolution\, Civil War\, and World War I\, he is passionate about connecting with audiences and making history come alive through engaging storytelling and interactive presentations. \nCome early for dinner and drinks! The meeting will be in-person at Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, upstairs\, and livestreamed on Zoom. The Zoom link will be available in the APT Tour Talk newsletter the week of the meeting; non-members should contact Marianne Ruane president@phillyguides.org no later than 5 pm the day of the meeting to receive the link. A recording will be available on the APT YouTube page for a month following the talk. \nAPT meetings are open to aspiring and working tour guides as well as anyone with an interest in Philadelphia-focused history. Attend one meeting for free and then it is $60 to join the association for the year or $10 per monthly meeting in-person event. Zoom meetings are free. Please join us for convivial company\, good food\, fascinating presentations\, and lively discussions! \n\n\n 
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/thomas-paines-common-sense/
LOCATION:Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19106\, United States
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/jim-seagrave-daly-comm-sense-e1774309978990.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260331T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260331T203000
DTSTAMP:20260302T174502Z
CREATED:20260302T161833Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T174502Z
UID:11916-1774983600-1774989000@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Create a Tour Adventure on the eATLAS App
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) has arranged a Zoom webinar with Chicago-based Kelly Kniewel of eATLAS – Adventures To Go on March 31 at 7 pm. The eATLAS platform helps guides build and publish custom app-guided “Adventures” that visitors can take on their own or guides can use as a media enhancement to in-person tours. The experiences are easily shareable\, so guides can use them for marketing and self-promotion or publish them on platforms like Viator. To preview the eAtlas app before the meeting\, download it for free. \nIn this practical session\, Kelly will walk members through what is needed to create an Adventure that’s ready to publish and share on eATLAS. She’ll also explore how an Adventure can function as a “digital appendix” to a live tour—featuring historic photos\, videos\, and extra stories guests can access on their phones\, as used by guides like Ronnie Frey for his tours with Doorways of Chicago. (Ronnie did a ‘How To Use Social Media for Marketing‘ workshop for APT members in November 2025.) \n\nGuides will learn: \n\n\nWhat information and assets to have ready before starting (route stops\, story beats\, images/video\, objectives)\nHow Adventures are structured on eATLAS and what makes them engaging for guests\nWays to price and position self-guided Adventures as an additional revenue stream\nHow to use their Adventure link/code for self-promotion and audience growth\nHow to use an Adventure to enrich an in-person tour with “then-and-now” visuals and bonus content to take away\n\nPlease RSVP below to receive the Zoom link. For questions\, please email APT President Marianne Ruane. This webinar is limited to APT members.
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/create-a-tour-adventure-on-the-eatlas-app/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/eAtlas-for-Website-e1772473153639.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260327T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260327T160000
DTSTAMP:20260327T164307Z
CREATED:20260309T182945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T164307Z
UID:11987-1774620000-1774627200@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Tour of the Masonic Temple in Philadelphia
DESCRIPTION:THIS TOUR IS NOW CLOSED AND WALKUPS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING.  \nJoin fellow Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) members on Friday\, March 27 at 2 pm for a private guided tour of one of the crown jewels of Philadelphia\, the Masonic Temple. This National Historic Landmark houses seven distinctly ornate meeting halls which transport tour-goers to various countries (Egypt\, Greece) in different eras through a series of stunning architectural feats and decorative embellishments. Outside of the meeting halls\, there’s plenty to see in nearly every corner of this architectural gem\, including a grand staircase\, intricate stained glass windows\, and the world’s second-largest collection of sculptures by William Rush (after the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts across the street). \nThe Masonic Temple is home to the Masonic Library and Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania\, and is located at 1 North Broad St.\, directly across from City Hall. APT is subsidizing the visit so that the cost is only $5\, payable through the ticket function below. Contact APT Director-at-Large Vince McCafferty vpmccafferty@msn.com with any questions. It’s a great opportunity – sign up today!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/tour-of-the-masonic-temple-in-philadelphia/
LOCATION:Masonic Temple\, 1 N. Broad St.\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19107\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/masonic-temple-e1773251776725.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260321T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260321T160000
DTSTAMP:20260309T220631Z
CREATED:20260223T201250Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T220631Z
UID:11876-1774098000-1774108800@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks by Tour Guides
DESCRIPTION:Members of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will present a teach-in\, HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks with Tour Guides\, at various sites within Independence National Historic Park (INHP) on Saturday\, March 21 from 1-4 pm. These free\, short significant snippets of history will include the history of Blacks and other marginalized groups. Participants can follow a route that starts at the Visitor Center\, continues past the President’s House\, Liberty Bell Center\, and goes along Chestnut Street to Congress Hall\, Independence Hall\, and Old City Hall. They can visit all five stops or take in as many as time and interest allow. The stories at each site are not sequential. \nThose who would like a little extra explanation and some camaraderie can join free tours that will leave the Independence Visitor Center at 1:15\, 2:15\, and 3:15 pm to escort guests around to all five sites. Look for the APT table and ‘Ask Me’ name tags! \nThis public education program is APT’s response to the March 27\, 2025 executive order “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.” This order directed the secretary of the Department of the Interior to make sure that displays at national parks do not “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living (including persons living in colonial times).” Instead\, he said\, they are to “focus on the greatness of the achievements and progress of the American people.” \nTo make sure the full American history is not lost or forgotten\, guides will discuss true stories about colonial slavery\, Black resistance and self-determination\, and other underrepresented narratives in early American life. The public is encouraged to attend the HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks with Tour Guides to learn a more complete account of our country’s history. \nThe event is free\, nonpartisan\, and family-friendly. No registration is required. All are welcome!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/history-matters-free-talks-by-tour-guides-4/
LOCATION:Independence National Historic Park\, 599 Market Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/History-Matters-Talks-1.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260317T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260317T203000
DTSTAMP:20260128T202956Z
CREATED:20260128T161114Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T202956Z
UID:11465-1773774000-1773779400@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Book Club for March
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will hold its next book club meeting on Tuesday\, March 17 at 7 pm on Zoom. There is no fee to attend and everyone is welcome. Participants should come ready to discuss the book. The selection is The Power to Deny by APT’s own Wendy Long Stanley. \nIt is not uncommon for people to live in Horsham or some place very near Horsham for years and years before they somehow happen to discover Graeme Park. But when Wendy Stanley moved here from Canada almost 20 years go\, it took her only a few weeks to find it and only minutes to become excited about it. She learned a bit about Elizabeth Graeme’s life as a privileged but restricted woman of the eighteenth century and started to write a novel about her. Wendy describes her book\, The Power to Deny\, as historical fiction. But it is hardly fiction at all. There is very little in it that is not documented or did not actually happen. \nThat is because Wendy did such extensive\, detailed research about her subject. She visited Elizabeth-related sites in Philadelphia – her burial site at Christ Church\, the graveyard at Old Swedes Church where Graeme and Henry Fergusson were married\, the house where her sister Jane lived\, as well as lots of libraries and\, of course\, Graeme Park. While poring through an original journal at the Pennsylvania Historical Society library\, written in solitude with a quill pen by Elizabeth’s own hand\, a pressed flower fell out of the pages. It had been there nearly three centuries! \nElizabeth’s life story seems a natural for a novel\, considering her struggles in romance\, as a writer\, as a property owner during the Revolutionary War\, and generally as a female during that turbulent era. Wendy put it all together in this book\, which took her eight years of working in solitude at her computer\, when time away from juggling all of the obligations of life as a 21st century wife\, mother\, and employee would allow\, to write. \nThe Zoom link will be sent out the week of the meeting in the APT Tour Talk email. Non-members who wish to attend should contact APT Secretary Pam Covey phillyguides@gmail.com by 5 pm the day of the meeting to get the Zoom link.
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/book-club-for-march-2/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Book Club
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Power-to-Deny.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260317T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260317T110000
DTSTAMP:20260309T220300Z
CREATED:20260107T132411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T220300Z
UID:10933-1773741600-1773745200@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Tour Guide Coffee Break
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) is organizing a tour guide coffee break on Tuesday\, March 17 at 10 am at the back of the Independence Visitor Center (IVC) at 6th and Market Streets. No set topics\, just good guide talk in a casual setting. Everyone is welcome. Wear your APT lanyard and to get 10% off your coffee\, beverage\, and more at the Independence Café. Everyone is responsible for their own drinks or snacks. \nNo need to reply – just show up!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/tour-guide-coffee-break-19/
LOCATION:Independence Visitor Center\, 599 Market St.\, 1 N. Independence Mall W.\, Philadelphia\, 19106
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Coffee-mug-e1770312991679.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260314T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260314T110000
DTSTAMP:20260105T143952Z
CREATED:20260105T143853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T143952Z
UID:10855-1773478800-1773486000@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:APT Certification Exam in March
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) written Certification Exam\, based mainly on information in the APT HANDBOOK\, covers the history\, people\, and places of importance in Philadelphia. It tests knowledge of the basic facts about the city that any guide giving solid\, professional tours of both the Historic District and Center City would know. \nThe next exam will be held on Saturday\, March 14\, 9-11 am at Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, upstairs. \nDeadline to register is Thursday\, March 12. Please pay in the APT Store and email the APT President at president@phillyguides.org if you are interested in taking the exam on March 14. We want to make sure we have enough copies! \nThose who paid for the exam previously and didn’t sit for it or did sit for it and didn’t pass do not have to pay the fee again. They do\, however\, need to register with the APT President.  \nClick here for more information.
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/apt-certification-exam-in-march/
LOCATION:Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19106\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/APT-Cert-Exam-e1753126100386.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260311T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260311T203000
DTSTAMP:20260303T020314Z
CREATED:20260223T194300Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T020314Z
UID:11865-1773255600-1773261000@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Hannah Callowhill Penn
DESCRIPTION:The next monthly meeting of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will be held on Wednesday\, March 11 at 7 pm. In celebration of Women’s History Month\, we’ll learn more about William Penn’s second wife\, Hannah (née Callowhill) from Doug Miller\, the museum director of Pennsbury Manor\, a reconstruction of William Penn’s country estate in Morrisville\, PA. Doug will discuss the trials and triumphs of this extraordinary woman who ran the government for six years after Penn suffered a stroke and for eight years after he died. \nHannah Penn would serve as Pennsylvania’s first female governor\, although she was never granted the title. Born into a wealthy family of first-generation Quakers\, friend Hannah would eventually marry Pennsylvania’s founder\, William Penn. Theirs would be a union that would influence the world we live in today. Hear about her leadership when Penn is debilitated by stroke\, her conflict with her stepson\, the loss of her beloved mother\, the boundary battle with Maryland\, and even a tidbit about her courtship with Penn. \nCome early for dinner and drinks! The meeting will be in-person at Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, upstairs\, and livestreamed on Zoom. The Zoom link will be available in the APT Tour Talk newsletter the week of the meeting; non-members should contact Marianne Ruane president@phillyguides.org no later than 5 pm the day of the meeting to receive the link. A recording will be available on the APT YouTube page for a month following the talk. \nAPT meetings are open to aspiring and working tour guides as well as anyone with an interest in Philadelphia-focused history. Attend one meeting for free and then it is $60 to join the association for the year or $10 per monthly meeting in-person event. Zoom meetings are free. Please join us for convivial company\, good food\, fascinating presentations\, and lively discussions! \n\n\n \n 
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/hannah-penn/
LOCATION:Philly’s Gourmet Steaks\, 114 Market Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19106\, United States
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Doug-Miller-Hannah-Penn-e1771875648394.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260302T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260302T203000
DTSTAMP:20260209T233927Z
CREATED:20260204T201130Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T233927Z
UID:11720-1772478000-1772483400@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:How to Get Started as a Tour Guide
DESCRIPTION:If you are new to guiding and would like some advice on getting started\, join the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) for a ‘how to’ session on Zoom\, Monday March 2 at 7 pm. Some of our newer members\, who have made successful inroads into obtaining work as a tour guide\, will share how they broke in\,  what they wish they had known early on\, and their best advice for new guides. We’ll also review insurance\, Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) and interpreting in Independence National Historical Park (INHP)\, and tour guide etiquette. Bring your questions! \nRSVP below to register for this free event. Registration will close at 5 pm the day of the event. We highly recommend watching the recording 2026 Orientation for New APT Members before this event if you haven’t already. This webinar is limited to APT members\, but we’d love for you to join APT if you’d like to attend! Email Marianne Ruane president@phillyguides.org with any questions. \n\nPhoto of APT Board Member Vince McCafferty leading a tour during the November 2025 APT Training.
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/how-to-get-started-as-a-tour-guide-2/
LOCATION:Zoom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/IMG_9400-e1760985423693.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260221T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260221T160000
DTSTAMP:20260203T043442Z
CREATED:20260203T002431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260203T043442Z
UID:11699-1771678800-1771689600@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks by Tour Guides
DESCRIPTION:Members of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) will present a teach-in\, HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks with Tour Guides\, at various sites within Independence National Historic Park (INHP) on Saturday\, February 21 from 1-4 pm. These free\, short significant snippets of history will include the history of Blacks and other marginalized groups. Participants can follow a route that starts at the Visitor Center\, continues past the President’s House\, Liberty Bell Center\, and goes along Chestnut Street to Congress Hall\, Independence Hall\, and Old City Hall. They can visit all five stops or take in as many as time and interest allow. The stories at each site are not sequential. \nThose who would like a little extra explanation and some camaraderie can join free tours that will leave the Independence Visitor Center at 1:15\, 2:15\, and 3:15 pm to escort guests around to all five sites. Look for the APT table and ‘Ask Me’ name tags! If it’s very cold\, we’ll tell stories from inside the Independence Visitor Center. \nThis public education program is APT’s response to the March 27 executive order “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.” This order directed the secretary of the Department of the Interior to make sure that displays at national parks do not “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living (including persons living in colonial times).” Instead\, he said\, they are to “focus on the greatness of the achievements and progress of the American people.” A few of the interpretive panels at the President’s House were flagged in the summer\, but on January 22\, all of the panels and signs were unceremoniously removed from the site. \nTo make sure the full American history is not lost or forgotten\, guides will discuss true stories about colonial slavery\, Black resistance and self-determination\, and other underrepresented narratives in early American life. The public is encouraged to attend the HISTORY MATTERS: Free Talks with Tour Guides to learn a more complete account of our country’s history. \nThe event is free\, nonpartisan\, and family-friendly. No registration is required. All are welcome!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/history-matters-free-talks-by-tour-guides-3/
LOCATION:Independence Visitor Center\, 599 Market St.\, 1 N. Independence Mall W.\, Philadelphia\, 19106
CATEGORIES:Event
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260217T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260217T110000
DTSTAMP:20260205T174022Z
CREATED:20260107T124309Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260205T174022Z
UID:10930-1771322400-1771326000@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Tour Guide Coffee Break
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) is organizing a tour guide coffee break on Tuesday\, February 17 at 10 am at the back of the Independence Visitor Center (IVC) at 6th and Market Streets. No set topics\, just good guide talk in a casual setting. Everyone is welcome. Wear your APT lanyard and you should get 10% off your coffee\, beverage\, and more at the Independence Café. Everyone is responsible for their own drinks or snacks. \nNo need to reply – just show up!
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/tour-guide-coffee-break-18/
LOCATION:Independence Visitor Center\, 599 Market St.\, 1 N. Independence Mall W.\, Philadelphia\, 19106
CATEGORIES:Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://phillyguides.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Coffee-mug-e1770312991679.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260215T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260215T123000
DTSTAMP:20260206T225628Z
CREATED:20260206T224201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T225628Z
UID:11758-1771153200-1771158600@phillyguides.org
SUMMARY:Mummer Fun
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides (APT) is offering a tour of the Mummers Museum followed by a unique behind-the-scenes visit to one of the Mummers’ spectacular performing arts clubs\, the Golden Sunrise New Year’s Association. The tour is hosted by APT’s own Golden Sunrise Mummer\, Jenn Hensell. \nThe 2-part tour begins Sunday February 15 at 11 am from the Mummers Museum\, 1100 S 2nd St. After about 45 minutes there\, we will walk the .4 miles to the home of Golden Sunrise NYA\, 230 Greenwich St. in south Philadelphia. We will be there about 30 minutes. Participants should plan about 1.5 hours total. \nThe discounted cost is $7 payable in the APT Store. If you have any questions\, contact APT Director-at-Large Vince McCafferty vpmccafferty@msn.com. \nGolden Sunrise NYA is a mummer club in the Fancy Division of the Philadelphia Mummers Parade. As a fancy club\, it is focused on building and displaying elaborate parade suits\, especially frame suits (floats) and backpieces (costumes with a wearable steel armature) decked out in full mummer regalia of satin\, sequins\, and feathers. Since 2014 Golden Sunrise has been the last remaining club in Fancy Division. \nIn 2017 Golden Sunrise established a 501(c)(3) arm of its organization dedicated to preservation and education in Fancy Division mummery. Its goal is to preserve this Philadelphia folk art while engaging an ever wider base of participation across the city. \nCheck out the photos from an APT visit in 2023! 
URL:https://phillyguides.org/event/mummer-fun/
LOCATION:Mummers Museum\, 1100 S 2nd St.\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19147\, United States
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