In a pre-opening event from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. on June 15, the American Vegan Center, at 17 N. 2nd Street, will mark the 1817 launch of the U.S. vegetarian movement in Old City.
In doorstep remarks, this fascinating origin story will be commemorated, and even re-enacted, with the aid of music and live improv cartooning. The event will be bookended by veg-history walking tours, a signature feature of the new institution.
Tour attendees will hear about unknown/unheralded pioneers of vegan thinking from Greater Philadelphia, including Benjamin Lay, Anthony Benezet, the Grimke sisters, Bronson Alcott, Caroline Earle White, Peace Pilgrim and Alfoncie Austin. And what’s all this about Ben Franklin and his tofu?
On this commemorative day the walking tours, one full-length (2:30 to 3:30 p.m.) and one abbreviated (5:15 to 5:35 p.m.), will be given for free. Capacity is limited, so if interested please let AVS know to add you to the list as soon as possible.
Although the Center itself will not yet be open for business, attendees will get a sneak peek at the coming attractions of this groundbreaking facility, and all will leave with a special commemorative souvenir of this extra-special June 15th.
