Once Upon a Nation – Storytelling Benches
Historic Philadelphia, Inc., in partnership with the Independence National Historical Park
invite you to hear riveting stories of American history even most adults have never heard at
11 charming Once Upon a Nation Storytelling Benches. The Once Upon A Nation storytellers
aren’t dressed in colonial garb, but they’ll effortlessly transport you back in time as you sit
on spacious and comfortable teak benches, all an easy stroll from one another within
Historic Philadelphia. Stories last just a few minutes each and are told continuously during
operating hours. You can start at any of the benches, all clearly marked with a “Once Upon
A Nation” sign - and it’s completely FREE!
More Fun for Kids
Wherever you elect to start you storytelling journey, be sure to ask your storyteller for a
flag. Kids collect one star from each bench they visit; flags complete with stars may be
presented for a fun prize at the Historic Philadelphia Center (6th & Chestnut streets), the
Betsy Ross House (3rd & Arch Streets), or at Franklin Square (6th and Race Streets.)
Operating Hours
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May 26th - June 3rd: Saturdays & Sundays, 11am-4pm
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June 9th - July 31st: Daily, 11am-4pm
Locations
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1. Independence Visitor Center, 6th & Market Streets
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2. Historic Philadelphia Center, 6th & Chestnut Streets
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3. Independence Square, behind Independence Hall
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4. Signers' Garden Presented by the Avery Foundation, 5th & Chestnut Streets
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5. Second Bank of the United States Presented by PNC, behind the Second Bank of the
United States, on Chestnut between 4th & 5th Streets
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6. The ACE INA Foundation Storytelling Bench at Carpenters' Hall, Carpenters' Hall, on
Chestnut between 3rd & 4th Streets
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7. Franklin Court, on Market between 3rd & 4th Streets
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8. Christ Church, 2nd & Market Streets
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9. Betsy Ross House, 3rd & Arch Streets
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10. The Lincoln Storytelling Bench at the National Constitution Center, 6th & Arch Streets
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11. Franklin Square, 6th & Race Streets