Trim the sails
African-American sailmaker James Forten, a wealthy and successful Philly businessman in the early years of American independence, will be celebrated in a “Seafarin’ Saturday” program on Feb. 20 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Independence Seaport Museum.
African-American sailmaker James Forten, a wealthy and successful Philly businessman in the early years of American independence, will be celebrated in a "Seafarin' Saturday" program on Feb. 20 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Independence Seaport Museum.
Hands-on fun: As part of the Seafarin' Saturday lineup, kids can construct colorful signal flags at a crafts area set up for "sailmaking."
…and while you're there: Look for the new "Liberation of Jane Johnson" historical marker outside the museum. It marks the spot where Johnson, a slave from North Carolina, fled her owner with help from abolitionists William Still and Passmore Williamson — and with five black dockworkers restraining the protesting slaveholder.
Independence Seaport Museum, Penn's Landing, 215-413-8655. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 215-413-8619. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $7 for children (free for those under 2).