Celebrating Presidents Day with the Historical Society of Pennsylvania

The Historical Society of Pennsylvania was founded in 1824 and is one of the nation’s largest archives of historical documents. Chief Learning and Engagement Officer at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Justina Barrett, joined us in the PHL17 studio to show us some historical documents and talk to us about how we can celebrate Presidents Day.

According to their website, “We are proud to serve as Philadelphia’s Library of American History, with over 21 million manuscripts, books, and graphic images encompassing centuries of US history. HSP serves more than 4,000 on-site researchers annually and millions more around the globe who use its online resources. HSP is also a leading center for the documentation and study of ethnic communities and immigrant experiences in the 20th century, and one of the largest family history libraries in the country. Through educator workshops, research opportunities, public programs and lectures throughout the year, we strive to make history relevant and exhilarating to all.”

“In honor of Presidents Day, which is actually Washington’s birthday, so the holiday is officially Washingtons birthday, established by congress in 1879, to celebrate George Washington and his vision for a bipartisan, functional government to work together, today, every year in the senate, they read his farewell address as a reminder,” says Barrett.

Watch to learn more.