At this year's Haunted Tours, HSP is pleased to welcome spiritual medium, Marisa Liza Pell. Pell recently toured the Historical Society's 100-year-old building, and will discuss her findings and experiences. After Pell's presentation, guests will take a tour behind the scenes to hear about the ghosts that haunt HSP.

In 1882 the Historical Society of Pennsylvania purchased a mansion at the corner of 13th and Locust streets. It soon became clear that the society needed a fireproof structure and more space to house its growing collection. In the early 1900s, the society constructed a new building on the property, designed by Addison Hutton. As part of the building’s 100th anniversary celebration, we invite the public to experience HSP as they never have before. Learn about the building and take a behind-the-scenes tour focused on the architectural history of HSP.

Mapping projects allow students to connect with local history as they gather, analyze, and interpret information about their neighborhood. This PhilaPlace workshop will suggest approaches for developing local history mapping lessons and discuss ways to incorporate immigration and oral history into such projects. To learn more about PhilaPlace, visit PhilaPlace.org. Attendance qualifies for two hours of Act 48 credit.

Join HSP for the opening of a unique art installation created by contemporary artist Duke Riley. Riley uses old maps and documents about Petty’s Island from HSP’s collection as inspiration for his project. Riley will explore the little-known history of Petty's Island and “reclaim” the island on behalf of Ralson Laird, an Irish immigrant who once called the island home. This event is part of Philagrafika 2010, Philadelphia’s international festival celebrating print in contemporary art. The exhibit will continue through April 11.