Explore key moments from the African-American struggle for freedom and equality through a mobile-friendly walking tour developed by Philadelphia high school students.

Philadelphia has acted as an epicenter for change since the founding of the nation. Activism has played a central role in challenging dictatorships, ending slavery, protecting workers, promoting equality for women, protecting the environment, and opposing racism.

On this tour you'll visit murals, memorials, and historical sites from the abolitionist movement, the Progressive Era, and the Civil Rights Movement.

How It Works

The Explore Philly guide is free and available for download through the Tour Buddy Historic Tours App for both Apple and Android devices. Whenever you are close to a point of interest on the tour, the stop in the app automatically opens, and you'll be able to see historical materials and facts alongside present-day photos of the site.

Download the Tour

If you prefer not to download the app, you can also view the tour in a browser on your mobile device or desktop.

History Makers Camp

This walking tour was developed as part of History Makers Camp, a two-week summer program for high school students. Students had the opportunity to connect history with technology as they learned research skills and created content about Philadelphia's activist history.

Thanks to our student participants from G.W. Carver High School of Engineering and Science!

Walancia Registre, 12th Grade
Fatima Rabihi, 12th Grade
Lorelai Davis, 12th Grade
Dillon Dang, 12th Grade
Emma Crosscombe, 11th Grade
Mahari Brown, 9th Grade
Rania Bakhri, 11th Grade
Ocean Almas, 11th Grade

Advisors

Kimberly McCleary
Beth Twiss Houting
Ahngelique A. Annule
Kerry Bryan
Margaret Guerra
Brian Ross
Melvin Garrison