Finding Freedom Civic Season

As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, Eastern State invites visitors to explore the history and legacy of one of America’s most influential prisons to reflect on the how the past informs our shared future.  

Through storytelling, historical interpretation, and creative engagement, these programs highlight the story an institution built off the founding fathers' vision of liberty and justice and how that vision quickly collided with the reality of total isolation. 

Enjoy the following, all included with admission:

• Voices of Change Zine Activity
  2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  Inspired by the counterculture power of the DIY zine, visitors can tell their own stories of liberty and cut-and-paste their own vision of justice.
   
• Baseball Pop-Up Talks & Home Run Hits
  12:00 PM
  Step onto the penitentiary's historic baseball field where you'll learn more about the impact of baseball and the freedom of expression in prisons, past and present, from one of our Educators. Then, step up to the "plate" and see how far you can hit a wiffle ball toward Eastern State's tall perimeter wall.
   
• Sports & Recreation Scavenger Hunt
  Pick up a packet at the entrance, and complete this sports-themed scavenger hunt to receive an exclusive sticker prize! Designed with kids and their caregivers in mind.
   
• Museum Activities
  11:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  Drop-in hands-on activities. All materials provided, and no artistic experience is necessary — just bring your creativity!
   
  • Freedom Poetry
    Inspired by Langston Hughes and other Civil Rights poets, and poetry written by people incarcerated at Eastern State. Visitors can create poems envisioning justice in their own lives. All materials are provided, and no artistic experience is necessary.
     
  • “Promises of Freedom” Wish Wall
    Share your vision for the country! Visitors are invited to contribute their answer to the prompt, “What’s your wish for the United States?” on our Wish Wall, presented in partnership with Made By Us.
     
  • Self-Guided Activity [Press Pass]
    Using a self-guided tour handout, visitors will explore the historic site to learn about the justice system from stories of people who served time at Eastern State. Through their investigation, visitors will learn about their first amendment rights and the importance of free press.
     
  • Postcard Making
    Join us for a hands-on activity that brings care and connection to people currently incarcerated. Create postcards that will be sent to individuals in prison. Reflect on the power of small acts of kindness and the importance of community beyond prison walls. All materials are provided, and no artistic experience is necessary.