The America250PA ”Start Here, America Did” Podcast

Liberty's Echoes: Unveiling Pennsylvania's Courageous Tales of Freedom with Historic Philadelphia

In this episode of "Liberty's Echoes: Unveiling Pennsylvania's Courageous Tales of Freedom with Historic Philadelphia," we're taking you back in time to explore some amazing stories from Pennsylvania's, and more specifically, Philadelphia’s history. Cassandra Coleman, the Executive Director of America250PA, hands her mic to Historic Philadelphia, an organization devoted to sharing history by making it “real, relevant, and fun.” Historic Philadelphia presents two reenactors to tell the stories of the amazing Pennsylvania freedom fighters.First, we hear about Henry "Box" Brown, a man who pulled off an unbelievable escape from slavery by shipping himself to freedom. His story is not just about his escape, but also about his fight against slavery and his life as a free man. Keith Henley steps into Henry's shoes to bring us this powerful story.Then, we switch gears to Bishop Richard Allen, portrayed by Robert Branch. Allen went from being an enslaved person to becoming a leading figure in founding the African Methodist Episcopal Church, one of the first major African American-led churches in the U.S. His story is a testament to resilience and the fight for racial equality.These stories are more than just history lessons; they're about the power of the human spirit and the fight for freedom and equality. Join Historic Philadelphia as the organization brings these tales to life, showing us the heroes of Pennsylvania's past and their lasting legacy. This episode is a trip through history you won't want to miss.

History in the Making: A Special Podcast Takeover by the African American Museum in Philadelphia

In this engaging episode of the "Start Here America Did" podcast, Morgan Lloyd, the dedicated Programming Coordinator for the African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP) and a fervent advocate for African American history, steps up as host to honor the legacy of the African American Museum in Philadelphia. Born from the initiatives of the Bicentennial, AAMP has carved its path as the first museum specifically established by a major city to celebrate, explore, and showcase the African American legacy. Morgan walks us through AAMP's groundbreaking journey, its esteemed Smithsonian affiliation, and its crucial role in chronicling African American heritage.Venturing further, Morgan discusses Philadelphia's African American community's history, spotlighting influential personalities, pioneering exhibitions like the "Rising Sun: Artists in an Uncertain America," and the museum's impactful educational initiatives. The "Rising Sun" exhibition, a collaboration with the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) and 1838 Black Metropolis, poses the compelling question: "Is the sun rising or setting on the experiment of American democracy?"Then Morgan dives deeper into 1838 Black Metropolis, an award-winning initiative she co-founded, which uses the 1838 Census as a foundation to map and narrate the lives of nearly 20,000 Black Philadelphians during the antebellum period. This project not only fills a gap in our understanding of Black history before the Civil War but also reclaims and redefines this critical chapter of Philadelphia's history through visuals and immersive walking tours.This special podcast episode is a celebration of the African American Museum in Philadelphia's 50-year legacy of excellence, its influential exhibitions, and educational organizations like 1838 Black Metropolis that enrich our understanding of American history and culture. Join Morgan Lloyd for an insightful journey into the stories and achievements that have shaped AAMP's distinguished history and continue to inspire future generations.

Champions of the Field: Inside the Pennsylvania Farm Show

Tune in for another engaging episode of the "Start Here, America Did" podcast, presented by America250PA! This week, we're delving deep into Pennsylvania’s Farm Show in our special feature, "Champions of the Field: Inside the Pennsylvania Farm Show," with your host Caleb Wright. In this next podcast installment, we celebrate the 108th Pennsylvania Farm Show's vibrant agricultural tapestry through exclusive interviews with its award-winning stars. From GearHouse Brewing Company's trailblazing brewing techniques to Coryea's Maple Products' heritage-rich flavors, Goat Rodeo Farm & Dairy's artisanal cheeses, and Clover Valley Creamery's mastery in cheese-making – these stories showcase the dedication, innovation, and diversity at the heart of Pennsylvania's farming industry. Join us as we journey through the state's agricultural wonders and toast the achievements of these family-owned businesses, the real heroes of Pennsylvania’s farmlands.

Pennsylvania’s Roadside Attractions: Taking a trip with Rusty Glessner of PA Bucket List

In this captivating episode, host Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA,
teams up with Rusty Glessner, the creator of the PA Bucket List, to explore Pennsylvania's
unique and often overlooked roadside attractions. Rusty, a renowned storyteller and
photographer, brings his expertise and love for Pennsylvania to the show, sharing fascinating
stories and insights about these hidden gems. From the Mars UFO in Mars, Pennsylvania, to
the whimsical Haines Shoe House in Hellam Township, and the iconic Big Mac Museum, each
segment offers a glimpse into the quirky and rich cultural tapestry of the state.
 
The episode not only uncovers the intriguing history and community impact of these attractions
but also Rusty's personal experiences and connections to these special places. The
conversation delves into the significance of these sites, such as the Sherman Memorial
Lighthouse and the Bedford Coffee Pot, revealing their roles in local heritage and tourism. In
closing, Rusty reflects on the importance of discovering and appreciating Pennsylvania's diverse
cultural heritage, encouraging listeners to embark on their own adventures.

Anything But The Ball, Pennsylvania’s Unique New Year’s Eve Drops

In this engaging episode of "Anything But The Ball, Pennsylvania's Unique New Year's Eve Drops" host Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA, invites listeners to a festive exploration of Pennsylvania's unique New Year's Eve traditions. Venturing beyond the typical ball drop, Cassandra introduces three towns - Mechanicsburg, Bethlehem, and Dillsburg - each with its own distinctive way of ringing in the new year. From the impressive Wrench Drop in Mechanicsburg, symbolizing the town's mechanical heritage, to the sweet PEEPSFEST in Bethlehem, celebrating the iconic PEEPS marshmallows, and the quirky Pickle Drop in Dillsburg, the episode uncovers the stories and community spirit behind these unique celebrations.
Throughout the episode, Cassandra engages in insightful conversations with key figures from each town. Darrell Westby from Mechanicsburg shares the origins and impact of their Wrench Drop, Courtney Angle from Bethlehem delves into the history and joy of PEEPSFEST, and Chad Reed from Dillsburg reveals the fun and community bonding through the Pickle Drop. This episode not only highlights the creativity and cultural richness of Pennsylvania but also showcases how these unique traditions foster community spirit and joyous celebrations.

Timeless Tales with Bruce Haines: Unveiling Bethlehem’s Legacy and the Hotel Bethlehem Story

Join guest host Sydney Harris in the next installment of the America250PA Start Here, America Did podcast, as we journey into the storied past of the Hotel Bethlehem and the historic town of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. In a rich and engaging conversation with Bruce Haines, managing partner of the hotel, we're taken on a historical tour of both the town and the hotel. Discover the transformation of the Hotel Bethlehem from its 18th-century beginnings as the 'First House of Bethlehem' to its prestigious title as America’s #1 Best Historic Hotel by USA Today.
 
Bruce delves into his pivotal role in the hotel's success, discusses current projects like the World Heritage Designation application, and shares his visionary plans for the hotel's future. This episode is more than a journey through time; it's a vibrant celebration of Pennsylvanian history and the enduring allure of its unique heritage.

Cat Janisko “Pennsylvania Junkie’s” November Series, Episode 2 - Pennsylvania Junkie’s Top Pennsylvania Destinations

Join host Sydney Harris as we conclude 'Pennsylvania Junkie’s November Series' with a captivating interview featuring Cat Janisko, the creator of "Pennsylvania Junkie." With over 270,000 TikTok followers, Cat is known for her virtual tours of Pennsylvania's hidden gems and insights of Pennsylvania culture and unique characteristics.
 
In this episode, we explore Cat's top Pennsylvania destinations! Join us on a journey across six regions of the Commonwealth—from state parks to theaters to historic sites and more—to learn about some of the #EPIC places Pennsylvania has to offer near you!

Cat Janisko “Pennsylvania Junkie’s” November Series, Episode 1- Keystone Inspirations: Cat Janisko and the Creation of PennsylvaniaJunkie

Join host Sydney Harris as we kick off the "Pennsylvania Junkie’s November Series" with a captivating interview featuring Cat Janisko, the creator of "Pennsylvania Junkie." With over 270,000 TikTok followers, Cat is known for her virtual tours of Pennsylvania's hidden gems and insights of Pennsylvania culture and unique characteristics.
 
In this episode, we explore Cat's early experiences in Pennsylvania, her inspiration for starting "Pennsylvania Junkie," and the rewarding moments of sharing her love for the Commonwealth. Cat also discusses the challenges she's overcome and her vision for how "Pennsylvania Junkie" contributes to Pennsylvania's culture.

Fun Isn’t Far Away - Pennsylvania Festivals, Fairs and Celebrations

Fun Isn’t Far Away – So hit the road and make seasonal events the reason to explore the four corners of Pennsylvania as part of your celebration of America250PA. This podcast will provide an overview of the range of events and how they are important to the heritage, and culture of Pennsylvanians, today and in the past. This podcast will feature examples that cover geography, the four pillars of EPIC (Educate, Preserve, Innovate and Celebrate) and, where it makes sense, affiliates.

Lifting Up Stories — The Incredible History of The Dennis Farm

America250PA’s Semiquincentennial Bell project aims to lift up the stories of communities that have been untold or not widely known, yet shaped the history of Pennsylvania. The first bronze, permanent Semiquincentennial Bell was unveiled on June 28th, 2023, at The Dennis Farm—a 200-year-old farm in Susquehanna County originally settled by the family of Prince Perkins, free African Americans who moved to Northeastern Pennsylvania from Connecticut in 1793, and later expanded by their descendants, the Dennis family. Learn more about The Dennis Farm’s incredible history and the importance of the Semiquincentennial Bell Dedications from special guests, Denise Dennis, President and CEO of The Dennis Farm Charitable Land Trust; George Stark, Director of External Affairs at Coterra Energy; Speaker of the Pennsylvania House Joanna McClinton; and Pennsylvania Auditor General Timothy DeFoor.