The Sir John Templeton Heritage Center is a celebration of the rich history, heritage and traditions of a truly unique American institution, The Union League of Philadelphia. The “League” was founded to suppress the rebellion of the American Civil War and to preserve the Union. During the Civil War and post-war reconstruction, the League was one of the most influential organizations of the North. From its founding to the present, the League has been a leading civic organization and has played an important role in the history of our country and the City of Philadelphia. The Heritage Center was created so that this history can be shared, and so that the League’s charitable activities can become more effective.
Upcoming Events
Youth Work Day
10/3/2013
Each year, the Youth Work Foundation works with nearly 300 new students with diverse social and economic backgrounds who have demonstrated their love for our country through outstanding leadership and volunteerism in community organizations throughout the greater Philadelphia region. The students are invited to the Union League for a day where they participate in a series of workshops focusing on citizenship, participate in a mock trial at the Federal Court House and receive their Good Citizenship Award during a dinner banquet attended by the students, Youth Work Foundation and Committee and League members. Please click here for more information.
Collection Highlights
Lincoln Handkerchief
Political campaign handkerchief from the 1860 American presidential election, promoting candidates Abraham Lincoln and Hannibal Hamlin. In modern terms, campaign handkerchiefs were the 19th century version of bumper stickers today.
The Tanner Manuscript
Early on the morning of April 15, 1865, Corporal James Tanner recorded eyewitness testimony of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. This hand-written document is the only copy of that account.