Black Founders Virtual Tour

Welcome to the Museum of the American Revolution’s virtual tour of our special exhibition, Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia. Immerse yourself in 360-degree panoramic gallery images, high-resolution photos of the artifacts and documents, and a guided audio tour to explore the story of free Black Philadelphian James Forten and his descendants as they navigated cross-racial relationships in Philadelphia during the American Revolution to become leaders in the abolition and women's suffrage movements.

How to Use

An Immersive Tour of Black Founders

The exhibit features more than 100 historical artifacts, works of art, and documents from 38 different lenders, including both institutions and private collectors, as well as the Museum’s own collection to explore the Forten family’s roles in the Revolutionary War, business in Philadelphia, and abolition and voting rights from 1776 to 1876. Rare historical objects on loan from descendants of the Forten family are on view for the very first time in a public exhibit. The unique journey and exceptional story of this family of Revolutionaries explores the legacy of the American Revolution, the history of the American experiment of liberty, equality, and self-government, and the ongoing work to improve the nation’s dedication to the principle that “all men are created equal.”

Music Station & Audio Tour Integration

The Black Founders virtual tour incorporates audio elements from the onsite experience, including the listening station dedicated to the music of Black composer and musician Francis Johnson. The guided audio tour of Black Founders, narrated by Director of Education and Community Engagement Adrienne Whaley, is integrated throughout the virtual tour to dive deeper into the highlights of the exhibition. Transcripts of the audio tour stops are available on the exhibit's audio tour page.

Teacher Resources

The Black Founders virtual tour features a robust selection of teacher resources for using the virtual tour in the classroom. Resources include modular activities and worksheets, access to primary sources, big idea framing essays, a glossary, and much more.

Photography by Brandon Hull (HULLFILM)