-
Free African Society
This organization fostered identity, leadership, and unity among Blacks, it also became the forerunner for the first African American Churches in Philadelphia. -
Mother Bethel A.M.E Church
One of the first African American churches in Philadelphia, the current building was erected in 1889. -
William Still
Was an Underground Railroad agent who helped slaves escape and kept records so that relatives could find them, was also a wealthy coal merchant, also helped found the first Black YMCA. -
James Forten
The American Antislavery Society was organized at Forten's house in 1833. -
Institute for Colored Youth
In 1852 became first schools to train blacks for skilled jobs. -
Benjamin Banneker Institute
Dedicated for the literary betterment of African Americans. Banneker published the first almanac by an African American. -
St. Peter Claver Catholic Church
Dedicated in 1892 and named for a 16th century saint who fought the slave trade, this was the first Catholic Church for blacks in Philadelphia. -
W.E.B Du Bois
Founder of the NAACP, Du Bois was a scholar, educator, and activist. While living in Philadelphia he published a study in 1899 called "The Philadelphia Negro"