An Exploration of Philadelphia's Abolitionist History: A Joint Cemetery Tour

We invite you to an insightful exploration of Philadelphia's vital role in the 18th and 19th-century abolition movement through a unique, dual-site tour of Eden Cemetery and Laurel Hill East.

This tour offers a comprehensive narrative, examining the lives of pivotal figures from the period. At Eden Cemetery, we will honor the legacies of free and self-liberated African American abolitionists, including Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, William Still, and James Forten. The tour will also highlight the often-overlooked stories of resistance from other activists interred at this historic site.

The Laurel Hill East portion of the tour will delve into the era's complexities by presenting the varied and sometimes contradictory roles of its historical figures. We will review the contributions and stances of individuals such as William Henry Furness, George Bryan, and Judge John Kane, whose actions ranged from abolitionist support to anti-abolitionist violence.

Beyond individual biographies, this program will address the broader societal context, including the history of discriminatory burial policies among cemeteries that persisted late into the 20th century and the resulting development of African American-led alternatives to a systemic burial crisis.

Event Details

Guides: Richard White & Marty Foley

Terrain: Please be advised that the tour will include sections on unpaved and uneven grassy terrain.

Additional Tour: A related "Abolition Histories" tour will be offered at Laurel Hill East on June 6, 2026.

TICKETS

$20/General Admission (Ages 13 and up)

$18/Seniors (Ages 65+) and Students with ID

$15/Members of the Friends of Laurel Hill

$10/Youth (Ages 6-12)**

$2/Access Card Holders (can purchase up to 4 tickets)*

Free/Ages 5 and under**

* Access Card + Valid Photo I.D. must be presented at check-in.

**Please note – youth and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Advanced ticket purchases are strongly encouraged!