Educators, innovators, faith leaders, writers, reformers, and entrepreneurs connected to Philadelphia are brought into focus through the individuals who shaped opportunity, culture, and civic life.

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Tench Coxe was born with wealth and privilege and he had no qualms about changing his political loyalties to maintain his position. Narrated by Tim Heller.

Tench Coxe, Facing Both Ways

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John B. Stetson made a wide-brimmed high-crowned felt hat as a joke on a hunting trip which turned out to be the very first cowboy hat. Narrated by Tom Glynn.

John B. and his Stetson Hats

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A popular Philadelphia pastor began offering evening classes in the basement of the Baptist temple - the start of Temple University. Narrated by Tom Glynn.

Cornwell’s Temple Basement School

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Created the STEAM for All initiative, an innovative learning program that stemmed from a Girl Scouts project. Narrated by Machelle Williams.

Brianna Davis

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Founded Aniyah’s Mission to help those needing to enhance their voice. Narrated by Machelle Williams.

Aniyah Ayres

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Novelist Whose Work Introduced Readers to Educated Strong Female Heroines. Narrated by Misty Menees.

Louisa May Alcott

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When World War II took many of the town’s men, the local prison hired the first female prison guards in America. Narrated by Joy Nash.

First Female Prison Guards

Educators, innovators, faith leaders, writers, reformers, and entrepreneurs connected to Philadelphia are brought into focus through the individuals who shaped opportunity, culture, and civic life.