"Meet Hannah Penn: Pennsylvania’s First Lady of the Commonwealth" — Presented by Reenactor Ann D’Silva of the Gather Place Museum. This 1-hour program honors Hannah Penn’s quiet yet extraordinary leadership, offering audiences an inspiring look at how a determined woman helped shape America’s early foundation. Through an immersive, historically grounded lecture, participants discover the remarkable story of Pennsylvania’s First Lady—who governed the colony after the passing of her husband, William Penn. Engaging storytelling highlights Hannah’s steady guidance in promoting religious tolerance, diplomacy, and community leadership. This program concludes with a Q&A inviting participants to reflect on how Hannah Penn’s 18th-century vision resonates with today’s ideals of democracy and inclusion.

This performance is part of Gather Place Museum’s America 250PA Officially Recognized Program: Celebrating 250 Years of American Resilience in Pursuit of Liberty, Justice, and Equality—and serves as a timeless inspiration for us all.