The Library Company Hosts Two Summer Programs for Educators

During June and July the Library Company hosted two National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) funded workshops co-sponsored by the Society for Historians of the Early American Republic (SHEAR) that brought in teachers from all over the United States to learn more about our nation’s rich history. Both groups utilized the Library Company’s seminar facilities at the adjacent Cassatt House as well as the extensive collections available in our reading rooms.

In June two groups of 25 community college faculty participated in NEH Landmarks week-long workshops on “Revolution to Republic: Philadelphia’s Place in the Early Republic.” Under Project co-Directors Dr. Roderick McDonald and Dr. Michelle Craig McDonald, the two groups explored America’s history through Philadelphia field trips, guest lectures, and primary source materials.

Dr. Rich Newman directed a Summer Seminar for School Teachers in an examination of abolitionist history in Philadelphia. “The Abolitionist Movement: Fighting Slavery and Racial Injustice from the Revolution to the Civil War” brought in 14 school teachers and 2 graduate students from mid-June through mid-July. The group explored abolitionism through primary sources, site visits, and the expertise of guest scholars.