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2021 marks the Centennial Anniversary of the American Unknown Soldier from World War I's transportation home from France to the Washington Navy Yard.  But what some people may not know is the story behind the selection of the Unknown Soldier and the perilous journey aboard Cruiser Olympia as she made her way across the Atlantic Ocean.  And the brave men who risked their lives to protect the soldier they, nor the nation, would never know.   

As stewards of National Historic Landmark ship Cruiser Olympia, Independence Seaport Museum proudly partners with the Society of the Honor Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (SHGTUS)'s Centennial Committee, and others in solemn commemoration as we honor the Centennial Anniversary of the Unknown Soldier's journey home to his final resting place.  Throughout 2021, we will be sharing stories, presenting programming, hosting discussions, and premiering digital content that highlight not only the difficult journey home but also what it meant to be a soldier and an American citizen during World War I and how the challenges they faced more than 100 years ago still resonate today with new generations. 

Click here to learn more.

100 years ago, USS Olympia carried the remains of the Unknown Soldier from Le Havre, France to the United States on the way to his final resting place, Arlington National Cemetery. On the way, the Unknown Solider (and his accompanying crew) were almost lost as they sailed through a category four hurricane. Over the course of this year, we will be hosting pop-up discussions where, inspired by this voyage, we will examine a wide range of difficult journeys home.  Keep your eyes on our social media channels and our calendar as this is where we will be offering our book recommendations and letting you know about our next pop-up Zoom discussion. 

Paddle Penn's Landing is coming back for the 2021 Season!  We can't wait to sea you on the water!

Paddle your way around the Penn's Landing basin in a kayak, rowboat, swan, or dragon for the perfect outdoor recreational activity.  Located near Spruce Street Harbor Park and the Hilton Penn's Landing, Paddle Penn's Landing is a unique afternoon adventure with family and friends.

Hours of Operation (Friday, May 28 - Monday, September 6)

• Weekdays (Monday - Friday): 3:00PM - Dusk
• Weekends (Saturday - Sunday)/Holidays: 12:00PM - Dusk

Cost

• $10 per person for a half hour rental
• $8 per person for Museum Members for a half hour rental

Tickets can be purchased on-site.  For more information, click here. 

Join Independence Seaport Museum as we honor the Centennial Anniversary of the American Unknown Soldier from World War I's journey home aboard Cruiser Olympia with the special exhibit, Difficult Journey Home.

Comprised of 11 panels, this installation tells the little-known story of how, on its journey across the Atlantic, Cruiser Olympia's captain, crew, and the Marine Honor Guard attachment aboard risked their lives to ensure the Unknown Soldier be delivered safely to Washington, D.C.  

Featuring animation by Drexel University's Westphal College of Media Arts & Design and Assistant Teaching Professor Dan Rose, this special exhibit highlights the difficult journey home for the Unknown Soldier and encourages us to ask the question, have we experienced our own difficult journey home in some way, shape, or form?  And, how can we support those who might be going through a difficult journey currently? 

To learn more about the transport of the Unknown Soldier, including selection process, what happened during the difficult journey, and more, click here. 

This 10-mile kayaking excursion is for the experienced paddler and nature lover. The trek will lead to Petty's Island, a 292-acre island in the middle of the Delaware River. Gear up to explore the secluded waterways surrounding Petty’s Island and bring your own picnic lunch. This excursion is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate.

Register and reserve your spot here! 

This 10-mile kayaking excursion is for the experienced paddler and nature lover. The trek will lead to Petty's Island, a 292-acre island in the middle of the Delaware River. Gear up to explore the secluded waterways surrounding Petty’s Island and bring your own picnic lunch. This excursion is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate.

Register and reserve your spot here! 

Head out on an easy, guided, 3-mile expedition. Are you comfortable around the water but new to kayaking? Want some practice before setting out on a longer tour? Then this may be the right excursion for you! This expedition starts with time in the protected area of the Penn's Landing Marina for kayaking practice, lessons, and guidance from experienced kayaking guides. Once confident with the basics, head out on an easy guided expedition on the Delaware River to check out what remains of the Three Sisters shipwreck. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate.

Register and reserve your spot here! 

Paddle six miles with us to one of Philadelphia's most Instagrammable locations, Graffiti Pier!  Our kayak excursion will present participants with the unique opportunity to see this iconic destination from the water.  You never know what cool design you will spot on your trip.  This excursion is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers.  Must be 18 years of age to participate.   

Register and reserve your spot here! 

Paddle six miles with us to one of Philadelphia's most Instagrammable locations, Graffiti Pier!  Our kayak excursion will present participants with the unique opportunity to see this iconic destination from the water.  You never know what cool design you will spot on your trip.  This excursion is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers.  Must be 18 years of age to participate.   

Register and reserve your spot here! 

Are you looking for an adventurous alternative to happy hour?  This kayaking course will teach you paddling and safety basics before a quick trip out of the basin to take in the city skyline.  Must be 18 years of age to participate. 

Register and reserve your spot here! 

Head out on an easy, guided, 3-mile expedition. Are you comfortable around the water but new to kayaking? Want some practice before setting out on a longer tour? Then this may be the right excursion for you! This expedition starts with time in the protected area of the Penn's Landing Marina for kayaking practice, lessons, and guidance from experienced kayaking guides. Once confident with the basics, head out on an easy guided expedition on the Delaware River to check out what remains of the Three Sisters shipwreck. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate.

Register and reserve your spot here! 

This 10-mile kayaking excursion is for the experienced paddler and nature lover. The trek will lead to Petty's Island, a 292-acre island in the middle of the Delaware River. Gear up to explore the secluded waterways surrounding Petty’s Island and bring your own picnic lunch. This excursion is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate.

Register and reserve your spot here! 

Paddle six miles with us to one of Philadelphia's most Instagrammable locations, Graffiti Pier!  Our kayak excursion will present participants with the unique opportunity to see this iconic destination from the water.  You never know what cool design you will spot on your trip.  This excursion is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers.  Must be 18 years of age to participate.   

Register and reserve your spot here! 

Are you up for the Walnut2Walnut River Challenge?

The excursion begins at Schuylkill Banks and ends at Independence Seaport Museum's boat basin.

The challenge course offers spectacular views of the city, while traveling almost 15 miles along both rivers.  The Walnut2Walunt River Challenge is suitable for experienced paddlers looking for a new way to get in touch with Philadelphia's waterways.

To learn more, and to register, click here!

Paddle six miles with us to one of Philadelphia's most Instagrammable locations, Graffiti Pier!  Our kayak excursion will present participants with the unique opportunity to see this iconic destination from the water.  You never know what cool design you will spot on your trip.  This excursion is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers.  Must be 18 years of age to participate.   

Register and reserve your spot here! 

Head out on an easy, guided, 3-mile expedition. Are you comfortable around the water but new to kayaking? Want some practice before setting out on a longer tour? Then this may be the right excursion for you! This expedition starts with time in the protected area of the Penn's Landing Marina for kayaking practice, lessons, and guidance from experienced kayaking guides. Once confident with the basics, head out on an easy guided expedition on the Delaware River to check out what remains of the Three Sisters shipwreck. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate.

Register and reserve your spot here!

Are you looking for an adventurous alternative to happy hour?  This kayaking course will teach you paddling and safety basics before a quick trip out of the basin to take in the city skyline.  Must be 18 years of age to participate. 

Register and reserve your spot!