Lay’s book-stabbing stunt in Burlington, NJ was part of a series of protest actions that cemented his legacy.

Benjamin Lay’s abolitionist activism had social repercussions from his heyday in the 1740s down through the US civil war. But his vegetarianism, which for Lay was cut from the same cloth, also impacted history through his influence on US vegetarians such as John Woolman, Anthony Benezet, John Churchman, Joshua Evans, Sarah & Angelina Grimke, Bronson Alcott and Dr. William Alcott. There’s even a clear connection between Lay and late-19th-century activist Caroline Earle White.

In celebration of the opening, May 1st at Quintessence Theater, of the powerful new play The Return of Benjamin Lay, come to the American Vegan Center and learn about Lay’s enduring impact on Philadelphia and U.S. history in a 76-minute walking tour.

This special one-time tour is limited to 15 people and includes a complimentary copy of the new book Revolutionary Peace by AVC Director Vance Lehmkuhl. Members of the Association of Philadelphia Tour Guides may sign up at a discount.

The tour departs from the steps of the AVC at 17 N. 2nd Street at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 27.