Join me this year as we explore some well-known and lesser-known mostly historic sites in Philadelphia in a monthly program called “I’ve lived in Philadelphia Forever But Have Never Been To ______.”
“Forever” can mean a short time or many years, and maybe you have visited the site a long time ago, or never. We'll visit locations from the 18th Century to the present time every month throughout 2026. I welcome your suggestions of places you'd like to visit.
Last year we visited everywhere from City Hall to the Bok building. We started the new year with two 18th Century landmark homes in Society Hill, the Powel House and the Hill-Physick House, both properties of the Philadelphia Society for the Preservation of Landmarks.Next was the Free Library and their Rare Book Department.
Now in May we have a very special visit to the First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry’s Armory.
Again, you may have been to “The Ring”, the huge armory space for an antique show or special event, but did you know that the building also has a private Officer’s Quarters, a fascinating museum and an elegant dining room?
Thursday, May 21 at 2 pm.
We will gather at the monumental entrance to the First City Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry’s 23rd Street Armory at 22 South 23rd Street in Center City Philadelphia at 2 pm to begin our tour, led by former Commander and Honorary Captain Dennis Boylan.
We will learn about this purely volunteer cavalry troop, which was the first organized in defense of the colonies. Today the Troop is certainly the oldest mounted military unit and quite possibly the oldest military unit of any kind that has been in continuous service to the Republic.
A private military organization, the Troop is a unit of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. Dennis Boylan will explain that the Troop operates under a number of principles of self-governance unique in the U.S. military, including the election of unit members and officers, voluntarily forgoing pay for military service.
We will learn about the Armory building, which was built in 1901, and is the oldest military building in the United States that is still in service.
The First City Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry Museum is accessible by elevator.
Meet at the Armory of the First City Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry, 22 South 23 rd Street at 2 pm. The tour will conclude about 4 pm.
Cost: $6 ($5 donation to the First City Troop museum and $1 for FitC for administrative costs.) No refunds for cancellation.
Number: Limited to 25 attendees.
Directions: The Armory is located at 22 South 23rd Street, easily accessible by buses on Chestnut, Market and Walnut Streets, as well as the T at the 22nd Street stop, and there is street parking around the building.
This is a rain or shine event.
Thanks to FitC Volunteer Organizer: Joan Wells
Questions about registration? Contact mignon.adams@gmail.com
