For Day 2 of the 16-day Wawa Welcome America Festival, you got explore the Historic Rittenhouse Town with free admission on Monday, June 20, as well as attend the art unveiling of a new piece of public artwork.
Free Admission to Historic Rittenhouse Town
Individuals were encouraged to explore Fairmount Park's centuries-old town and learn more about the history of the paper-making industry.
The History of Rittenhouse Town
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The Rittenhouse family story begins with papermaker William Rittenhouse following other Quaker and Mennonite families who were emigrating to the newly -formed neighborhood of Germantown. William partnered with the first printer in Philadelphia, bought a 20-acre plot of land along Paper Mill Run and built the first paper mill in British North America with the help of his son Nicholas.
For the next 40 years, the Rittenhouse family were the only papermakers in America. The family played an essential role as suppliers of locally produced paper for legal documents, map, books and letters.
The buildings in the historic site serve to remind everyone of the importance of the paper-making industry to the development of early America.
Wawa Welcome America
16 days of free events celebrating Freedom and Liberty | June 19 – July 4, 2023
The Rittenhouse Homestead and Bake House have been carefully restored to give visitors a glance back to the 18th century and serve as the focal point for the town, which dates back to 1690.
Global Philadelphia & The Halloran Family Foundation Mural Unveiling
After exploring the Rittenhouse town, people were invited to come check out the Global Philadelphia & The Halloran Family Foundation Mural Unveiling.
The new piece of public artwork by Russell Craig celebrates SDG #16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
The unveiling took place from from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Guests were asked to please RSVP.
Full Details on Wawa Welcome America Day 2 Events
Free Admission to Historic Rittenhouse Town
When: June 20, 2022 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Rittenhouse Town
6034 Wissahickon Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19144
For helpful navigation instructions, visit this page.
Global Philadelphia & The Halloran Family Foundation Mural Unveiling
When: June 20, 2022 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Project HOME Women of Change
2042 Arch St., Philadelphia, PA 19103
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