Arts & Culture

Among all of Benjamin Franklin’s many gifts to Philadelphia and the nation - free libraries, fire companies, lightning rods, bifocals, and the University of Pennsylvania - The American Philosophical Society, founded in 1743,  is one of his rarer gems.

Despite the large statue of Franklin above the main entrance, many people may unknowingly walk right past the centuries-old Society, which is discreetly housed in a neo-classical building in Old City.

WRTI's Jim Cotter pays a visit to Shofuso Japanese House and Garden in Fairmount Park as it prepares to open a new educational facility. The site dates back to the Centennial Exhibition of 1876.

WRTI's Lesley Valdes reviews Bruce Graham's play that tackles tough truths. The Outgoing Tide is at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre through April 22nd.

WRTI's Susan Lewis looks at the history of the Academy of Natural Sciences  in Philadelphia, and how it continues to serve both the scientific community and the public.