PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Historic Philadelphia has kicked off their programs in time for July 4 weekend. Due to the pandemic, it's the first time in two years that tourists have been able to experience the storytelling benches and History Makers, costumed interpreters of the city's past.
Lisa Deats, the vice president of operations for for Historic Philadelphia, explained they're kicking off a mini-season.
"In past years, we've done anywhere from 10 to 13 benches," she said.
"This year, with the limited amount of planning we were able to do, we did a smaller amount to kick off, but we're just so thrilled to be out here greeting visitors again in the historic district."
At these designated Once Upon a Nation benches, visitors can hear stories from trained storytelling guides.
"We've got anything from a hoagie story over in Franklin Square, the history of hoagies, to bank robberies that happened over at Carpenters Hall, to Richard Allen," Deats said.
"You'll hear about some of the more well-known historic figures, as well as some of the lesser knowns."
The program has lasted for the better part of two decades.
This year, there will be three benches. One is located behind Independence Hall, a second is at the Betsy Ross House and a third is located at Franklin Square.
When visitors hear a story, they will be given a red, white or blue star.
"When they've collected all three, they can go over to Franklin Square and ride the carousel for free," said Deats.
After a one-year hiatus, the program's leaders are glad to see its return, and the return of visitors to Philadelphia's historic sites.
"The best part," Deats explained.
"It's just (the) last month that we've begun to see such an uptick in visitors, and we couldn't be happier."
Historic Philadelphia's History Makers and storytelling benches will remain through Labor Day. A satellite program in Valley Forge will run this fall, through October 24.
