Betsy Ross House

The Betsy Ross House is located in a cozy urban alcove on Arch Street. It features its own enclosed garden area and an entrance and exit just off the garden. From the street, a historical marker sign indicates the presence of the house, informing tourists that the famous flag maker was an upholsterer by trade. It also reads: “As a skilled artisan, Ross represents the many women who supported their families during the Revolution and early Republic.”

The location is easy to miss if you aren’t looking for it—in fact, tourists rather close to the destination often ask about its specific placement. The enclosed nature of the Betsy Ross House adds to the feeling of welcome and magic visitors feel in the courtyard and the museum. 

Turning at the unassuming sign, visitors are welcomed by a gate and an enclosed garden courtyard. Ross’s famous flag hangs boldly from the building. The courtyard features benches, a garden and a fountain including two curious (sculptured) cats posed upon it. The courtyard features ample seating area for visitors during the busier summer months, but for an immersive, historical experience, late fall or early winter visits are recommended.

Most engrossing of all are the re-enactors who greet visitors in this area. If you wish to engage in a conversation about history, the re-enactors remain in character and speak as though their present lives are in the era of the American Revolution. If you’re after a photo or require directions or assistance, the re-enactors will pleasantly break character and oblige. This is a welcomed break from re-enactors and actors in other historical locations who either will not remove themselves from character or who will not interact in an in-character way.

The museum offers a house tour and shop. Tourists will often meet Mrs. Ross herself and learn about the art of lacemaking from other re-enactors. The tour details the life of Betsy Ross and her struggles—including the loss of three husbands (two of them died as a result of the war). Betsy was raised as a pacifist Quaker, but her first husband was an Anglican who was killed while guarding revolutionary munitions. She eventually rejoined the Quakers under a different sect—the Free Society of Quakers, a group supporting America’s revolution.

Guided and audio tours are available. Both tours show the colonial kitchen and some of Betsy’s actual items.

The feeling of immersive American and feminist history presented at the Betsy Ross House is arguably unrivaled by other historic sites in this city and beyond, making this experience especially beneficial for children and student tour groups.

- by Tara M. Clapper, Philadelphia Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)