It’s no secret that Philadelphia has a lot of history. For America250, Historic Germantown is challenging families and history lovers to test their knowledge this fall.
Starting Sept. 12, the Northwest Philadelphia neighborhood will turn into the home base for a scavenger hunt, inviting Philadelphians to explore 23 historic neighborhoods and cultural sites to collect stamps and uncover the identities of Historic Germantown trailblazers.
Stamps will be located at the designated “stamp house” at each individual site.
Community-wide scavenger hunts are fun for all ages. Families participating can get their Stamp Rally Booklet at any of the sites during open greenspace hours. Local organizations supporting the 250th Stamp Rally also have booklets for pickup and original stamps at Attic Brewing Co., Germantown United CDC, Fernhill Park and Weavers Way Co-op (Germantown and Mt. Airy locations).
Visitors will follow clues at each site to discover the names of featured figures, including artists, abolitionists, educators, activists and innovators connected to Germantown’s history.
“Germantown’s history has always been shaped by people who challenged expectations, broke barriers and created change,” says Tuomi Forrest, executive director of Historic Germantown in a news release. “With this Stamp Rally, we want people to have fun discovering those stories for themselves while exploring the places where so much of that history unfolded. As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, it’s an opportunity to look beyond the dates and events we know and connect with the individuals whose ideas, courage and contributions helped shape the community we know today.”
The Stamp Rally will run until Nov. 14, when families can attend the Stamp Rally Wrap Party at the Historic Germantown Visitor Center for refreshments, prizes and grand-prize raffle drawings.
Throughout the scavenger hunt, families who collect six or more stamps and/or reveal scavenger hunt answers can earn a set of Trailblazer Trading Cards featuring 18 influential figures. Those who reach 14 and 20 stamps can enjoy additional prizes like a Germantown Ball Cap, gift certificates to local stores or entry into a raffle for an Explorer Backpack filled with Historic Germantown swag, including toys, books, a T-shirt and more.
For more information and site maps visit historicgermantownpa.org/stamprally250.
