Wawa Welcome America: Free Museum Day at Historic Rittenhouse Town!

Tours of the Homestead and Bakehouse will be free from 12-4 on 6/20 as part of the Wawa Welcome America Free Museum Days! Join us for an open house style walkthrough of the homestead built in 1707 and learn about the Rittenhouse Legacy!

52 Weeks of Firsts

In 2026, America turns 250, and Philadelphia is throwing the ultimate yearlong celebration. After all, we’ve been first in freedom, first in innovation and first in fun for 250 years.

The Philadelphia Historic District Partners have assembled 52 Weeks of Firsts, from world-changing inventions to beloved traditions, with a new “Saturday First-ival” every week, each one happening in one of more than a dozen neighborhoods across this city. Expect live performances, pop-up experiences, family fun and plenty of Philly flavor.

Plan your trip, grab your crew and be part of the celebration that could only happen here — in the city that was first in everything worth celebrating.

By the way, exactly what is a Philadelphia First?

A Philadelphia First is something that happened here before anywhere else. These Firsts highlight the moments, places and creations that took root in Philadelphia, not individual achievements. From inventions to institutions, they’re the sparks that shaped a city of doers, dreamers and difference-makers. Because in Philly, history doesn’t just live here, it began here.

Historic RittenhouseTown has been picked as the celebration site for week 26, to celebrate the life and accomplishments of William Rittenhouse!

“Long before Wi-Fi and word processors, there was paper and it all started at Rittenhouse Town. Discover the handmade beginnings of America’s paper trail and the mill that made it happen.”

On Saturday, June 27, 2026, the first paper maker in the United States will kick off at Historic RittenhouseTown with a variety of activities for the celebration! Please mark your calendars to celebrate with us!

Join Historic RittenhouseTown on
Saturday, June 27, 2026 11am-2pm
for our First-ival
celebrating William Rittenhouse the first paper maker in the United States.

“Long before Wi-Fi and word processors, there was paper and it all started at Rittenhouse Town. Discover the handmade beginnings of America’s paper trail and the mill that made it happen.”

Please mark your calendars to celebrate with us!

Looking For a tour of the Historic 1707 Homestead?

Private Tours are available year round, email us at information@rittenhousetown.org to schedule one today!

Regular tour hours are available on Saturdays Memorial Day through Labor Day on Saturday from 12p-3p.
Tours start on the hour and last 45 minutes. Cash and Venmo accepted. $10 per person, Kids under 8 are free.

Museum Second Saturdays are free!

Check out our awesome on-site vendors!