Delve into Philadelphia’s 18th and 19th century abolition movement through joint tours of Eden Cemetery and Laurel Hill East. Explore the lives of free African Americans and self-liberating abolitionists who now rest at Eden Cemetery, such as Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, William Still, Richard Allen and activists whose stories of resistance are undertold.

Simultaneously, discover the complexities of the era by examining the lives of those buried at Laurel Hill, including William Henry Furness, George Bryan, and Judge John Kane, whose stances and stories ranged from solidarity to contradiction to anti-abolition violence.

Beyond individuals, these tours illuminate the broader societal landscape as well as the site histories of Laurel Hill and Eden, which tell a story of racism in burial policies amongst cemeteries late into the 20th century and the African American response to a burial crisis.

Thank you to generous sponsors PA Abolition Society and Carol R. Yaster and William J. Levant, Esq.

Sign up also for: Abolition Histories – Laurel Hill Tour on 9/28

• No parking is is allowed on Springfield Road.
• Free parking is available in Eden Cemetery
  • There is a parking lot by the office building onsite.
  • Parking is also permitted on the driveway between Celestine and Lincoln sections. Staff will be onsite to guide you.
• Please only park in the areas listed above, as there may be funerals happening during the tour. Please be respectful and do not disturb any services.

PROGRAM DETAILS:

• This event is rain or shine.
• The tour will run from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Please arrive 5-10 minutes before the tour to check-in.
• We will depart from the bench near the entrance gates. The bench is to the left as you enter the cemetery.
• Restrooms will be available at the office building before and after the tour.

WHAT TO WEAR/BRING:

• Please dress to be comfortable for the duration of the event – consider heat/sun and any precipitation in the forecast.
• We recommend bringing a hat, bug spray, sunscreen, and water.

ACCESSIBILITY:

• This program requires walking on hills, grass, and pavement.
• Expect gentle slopes and uneven terrain.
• Everyone must sign a waiver before participating in the tour.