Porch Performance: Phillis Wheatley
Schedule
Sat, 20 Jun, 2026 at 04:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
5 Haldeman Rd, Schwenksville, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 19473 | Schwenksville, PA
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Pennypacker Mills invites the public to an engaging historical performance portraying Phillis Wheatley, the first published African American poet, on Saturday, June 20 at 4:00 PM. This free program will be presented on the mansion porch as part of the site’s Porch Performance Series- sponsored by the Friends of Pennypacker Mills.Through first-person interpretation and storytelling, audiences will meet Phillis Wheatley (c.1753–1784), who was kidnapped from West Africa as a child, enslaved in Boston, and rose to international literary acclaim in the 18th century. Her 1773 book, Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral, made her the first Black woman and one of the first Americans of any background to publish a book of poetry. Wheatley corresponded with leading figures of the Revolutionary era, including George Washington, and her work challenged prevailing assumptions about race, intellect, and freedom in colonial America.
The performance is presented by Dr. Daisy Century, an actor-historian who specializes in bringing the lives of historically significant figures to the stage. Blending rigorous historical research with theatrical performance, Dr. Century interprets Phillis Wheatley’s experiences, writings, and voice to create an immersive, educational experience for modern audiences.
The event is free; suggested donation of $2 per person. Visitors are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair for lawn seating during the outdoor performance.
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Where is it happening?
5 Haldeman Rd, Schwenksville, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 19473Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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