WE HAVE SUSPENDED SALES FOR THIS EVENT WHILE HIDDEN RIVER OUTFITTERS IS RECOVERING FROM HURRICANE IDA FLOODING AND ASSESSING THIER OPERATIONS. PLEASE CHECK BACK SOON FOR UPDATES.
The Schuylkill river has been a vital part of our city’s history from its use as by Lenape fishing camps to its role in the industrial growth during the 19th and 20th centuries. The Schuylkill has also played a vital part in Fairmount Park history with the river running through the heart of the park and serving as a source of recreation and respite. In fact, the river and the need to protect its source of drinking water for the Waterworks was the very practical purpose for developing the park in the late 19th century.
Learn more about this fascinating past and present of the Schuylkill River, as well as the history of the Fairmount Waterworks on a special guided kayak tour of the river with hydrology historian Adam Levine. Since 1998, Adam has been the historical consultant to the Philadelphia Water Department and will share his expertise on Schuylkill River, as well as nearby streams, drainage systems, and the Waterworks- the crown jewel of our water infrastructure.
PLEASE NOTE: the audio for this guided tour will be presented with Zoom. Attendees should bring a charged smartphone, with the Zoom mobile app downloaded. Bluetooth earbuds are also recommended, although not required if your phone’s speaker is sufficiently loud. All guests will be provided a waterproof dry bag for cell phones that safely hangs around the neck.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
- Moderate exertion level.
- All tours begin with a brief safety talk and on-shore kayaking lesson.
- Not recommended for ages under 12
- Parental consent required for 18 and under.
- Please dress according to weather conditions.
- Bring water and a snack
- Bring bug spray and sunscreen
PARKING: there is paid street parking and an Indego Bike Share doc at 120 S 24th St. As always, NEVER leave valuables in your car!
COVID-19 PROTOCOLS: By registering for this event you are agreeing to follow ALL of these protocols:
-This event has limited capacity. Please only register if you fully intend to attend and let us know if you need to cancel ASAP.
-Participants must maintain 6 feet of distance from one another during the event.
-Please bring a mask. We encourage you to wear it if you're in proximity to others.
-If you or anyone in your household are exhibiting COVID-19 systems, please stay home.
BIO: Adam Levine, as a historical consultant to the Philadelphia Water Department since 1998, has tried to piece together the fascinating history of the city’s many lost streams. His research is in the collection of the PWD’s historical material, local libraries, historical societies, archives, and relevant departments of the city government; his sources included paintings, drawing, maps and plans, photographs and surveys. To learn more about Adam and his work, visit his website: http://phillyh2o.org/