Not everyone knows that a Philadelphia brewer penned the most famous document in American history. As an assistant Secretary to Congress, Timothy Matlack engrossed the Declaration of Independence. But how was it that a beer-bottler, infamous for cockfighting, once confined to debtor’s prison, was given this responsibility?

At an isolated log cabin in the harsh wilderness of Indiana circa 1817, the rhythms of love, tragedy, and the daily happenings of life on the developing frontier shaped one of our nation's greatest heroes: Abraham Lincoln.

Using black and white cinematography to conjure an America where the land was raw, The Better Angels sheds new light on the formative years of the future president and the two women who molded him into one of the most revered men in American history.

Discover the Hidden Treasures in HSP's collection with an illustrated presentation by Senior Director of the Library and Collections Lee Arnold. Arnold will highlight lesser known but highly treasured historical documents and images, including: the oldest collection item; a map showing an early Pennsylvania land swindle; and the first portrait photograph taken in the United States. A reception with an opportunity to view--for one night only--some of these rarely seen artifacts will follow.

Philadelphia has the second largest population of Irish-Americans in the country. From the founding of the nation, Irish immigrants and elements of their culture have integrated into our society. This display documents some of their experiences as the mostly rural population amalgamated into a growing urban city.