The 1838 Black Metropolis 101 Walking Tour of Philadelphia

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Philadelphia's rich history with our 1838 Black Metropolis Walking Tour, an exploration of the Free Black population before the 1860s. Delve into the narratives of real individuals unveiled through meticulous research into the Black lived experience in Philadelphia around the 1838 timeframe. and the data from the 1838 Pennsylvania Abolition Society Census.

Starting with data from the 1838 Pennsylvania Abolition Society Census and expanding that data set from primary sources, this immersive experience takes you to early 1800s civil rights sites, clandestine Underground Railroad locations, and Black built infrastructure hidden in plain sight.

Our tour courageously delves into challenging histories, celebrating the remarkable achievements of our ancestors.

Image credit: Lori Waselchuk