Registration

• This program is FREE and will be hosted in-person at Founders Hall at Girard College. Registration is strongly encouraged.

• Please check your spam folder for your email confirmation. If you have questions, please contact Director of Historical Resources at Girard College, Kathy Haas at khaas@girardcollege.edu or by calling 215-787-4434.

• This program is for those 18 and older.

Description

As we mark the 250th anniversary of Stephen Girard’s arrival in Philadelphia in 1776, come to historic Founder’s Hall to learn about this notable Philadelphian’s remarkable life story, explore the collection of books, manuscripts, artworks, and artifacts he left behind, and consider his complex, contested legacy for his adopted city and nation.  

Stephen Girard was many things over the span of his long life: sailor, merchant, banker, public health advocate, slaveholder, and ultimately, one of the nation’s first major philanthropists. The businessman’s famous last will and testament assured that his name would live on for generations to come—sometimes with gratitude, sometimes in infamy. Girard’s life story and shifting reputation offer potent lessons for Americans today, on the nature of citizenship and belonging in a republic that can and must continue to be revolutionary. As the United States approaches its 250th birthday, let’s gather together for a conversation about one of the most consequential, if sometimes overlooked, figures in Philadelphia’s fascinating history.  

Schedule 

5:30 – 6:00 PM Reception with light hors d’oeuvres and nonalcoholic beverages   

6:00 – 6:45 PM Remarks 

6:45 – 8:00 PM Book signing & free exploration of Founder’s Hall exhibition galleries 

Book Purchase

In early 2026, Portrait of a Citizen will become available for purchase from the De Gruyter Brill publishing house. The first 50 guests to arrive at the book launch will receive a complimentary copy of the book!  The author will be available to inscribe copies. 

Sponsor

This event is sponsored by the Founder's Hall Museum and organized by Kathy Haas at Girard College.

About the Author

Alexander Ames is Senior Director of Collections Engagement at the Rosenbach. While doing research for the Rosenbach's American Voyager Herman Melville exhibition in 2019, he became fascinated by the Philosopher Ships of Stephen Girard, which inspired this book project.