Welcome to The Philadelphia Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• New tech hub in downtown Philadelphia

• Joel Embiid’s 70-point game recap

• A deep dive into the life of Betsy Ross

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who has a why to live can bear almost any how."

– Friedrich Nietzsche

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

The Liberty Bell was originally housed in which Philadelphia landmark?

A) Franklin Institute

B) Independence Hall

C) Philadelphia Museum of Art

D) The Betsy Ross House

Answer to Last Week's Trivia

The famous document signed in Philadelphia in 1776 is B) The Declaration of Independence.

News

💼 Business

A Philadelphia-based startup announced a significant funding round, led by a well-known venture capital firm. (link)

The opening of a new, innovative tech hub in downtown Philadelphia was announced, aimed at fostering local startups and tech talent. (link)

$47.5 million allocated for revitalizing neighborhood assets like parks and libraries. (link)

🏒 Sports

A.J Brown and Jake Elliott named to the 2024 AP All-Pro Teams. (link)

Eagles to pick 22nd overall with additional compensatory picks in the mix. (link)

Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers scored an impressive 70 points in a game. (link)

The Philadelphia Union faced Brazilian team Flamengo in a preseason game but were defeated 2-0. (link)

🏦 Finance

Philadelphia councilman discussed replicating the Spark program, which has supported over 90 businesses. (link)

There was significant anticipation for the Q4 GDP estimate release on January 25, which could impact the stock market. (link)

Obsidian Energy provides forward-looking statements and financial expectations. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏀 St. Joseph's Hawks Men's Basketball vs. George Mason Patriots
Michael J. Hagan Arena, Philadelphia
Wednesday, Jan. 31st | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🥍 Philadelphia Wings vs. Halifax Thunderbirds - Lacrosse
Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia
Friday, Feb. 2nd | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Providence Friars at Villanova Wildcats Men's Basketball
Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia
Sunday, Feb. 4th | 6:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Lyn Lapid
The Foundry, Philadelphia, PA
Thursday, Feb. 1st | (More Info)

🎵 Frost Children
PhilaMOCA, Philadelphia, PA
Thursday, Feb. 1st | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎶 Sarah Jarosz: Polaroid Lovers Tour
World Cafe Live, Philadelphia, PA
Friday, Feb. 2nd | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

⛳ Chilly Philly Mini Golf
Franklin Square
Daily from Jan. 29th - Feb. 4th | Starts at 10:00 AM | (More Info)

🐉 Lunar New Year Family Arts Festival
Haverford
Sunday, Feb. 4th | 11:30 AM | (More Info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Philadelphia skyline with floating gardens and skyscrapers” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Philadelphia Historical Events

The Declaration of Independence is signed in Philadelphia (1776)

In 1776, a momentous event in American history occurred in Philadelphia: the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historic event took place on July 4th, marking the birth of the United States as a sovereign nation. Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson, the Declaration was a bold statement, announcing the Thirteen Colonies' separation from British rule and their emergence as independent states. The Continental Congress, meeting at the Pennsylvania State House (now known as Independence Hall), adopted the Declaration, setting the stage for the creation of a new nation.

The Declaration of Independence was not only a formal assertion of independence from Britain but also a revolutionary document that articulated the Enlightenment ideals of liberty, democracy, and human rights. It famously stated that "all men are created equal" and endowed with "certain unalienable Rights," including "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." These principles would become the bedrock of American society and government, influencing future democratic movements worldwide.

The signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia in 1776 was a pivotal turning point in world history. It represented a radical break from traditional forms of government and a new vision of a nation-state founded upon the consent of the governed. The event not only shaped the course of American history but also had a profound impact on global politics, inspiring struggles for independence and democratic governance across the world.

Famous People From Philadelphia

Betsy Ross (1752–1836)

Early Life and Family (1752-1773)

Betsy Ross, born Elizabeth Griscom in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on January 1, 1752, grew up in a large Quaker family. She was the eighth of seventeen children. Her father, Samuel Griscom, was a successful carpenter, and her mother, Rebecca James Griscom, was a homemaker. Betsy attended Quaker schools and learned needlework, a skill that would later become central to her contributions to American history.

Marriage and Personal Tragedy (1773-1776)

In 1773, Betsy eloped with John Ross, an Anglican, which led to her expulsion from the Quaker congregation. The couple started an upholstery business together. However, their bliss was short-lived as John died in 1776, likely due to injuries from a munitions explosion while serving in the militia. Betsy continued running the upholstery business alone, showcasing her resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.

The Flag and the Revolution (1776-1783)

During the American Revolution, Betsy Ross is credited with sewing the first American flag in 1776. As the story goes, she was visited by George Washington, Robert Morris, and George Ross, who requested her to create a flag based on a rough design they provided. Betsy suggested changes, including a five-pointed star instead of a six-pointed one, which was easier to produce. The flag's creation became an enduring symbol of American independence.

Life After the Revolution (1783-1793)

Following the Revolution, Betsy married sea captain Joseph Ashburn in 1777. Tragically, Ashburn was captured by the British and died in prison in 1782. Betsy was left a widow again with two young daughters. She later married John Claypoole, who had been imprisoned with Ashburn, in 1783. Together, they had five daughters. Betsy continued her upholstery business, while also caring for her large family.

Continued Business Success (1793-1817)

Betsy Ross's upholstery business thrived in post-Revolution Philadelphia. She gained a reputation for her excellent craftsmanship. The business also produced flags for the United States government. Her skill and business acumen allowed her to support her family, despite the repeated personal losses she faced.

Later Years and Legacy (1817-1836)

Betsy Ross spent her later years living with her daughters. She retired from her business in 1827, at the age of 75, leaving the business to her daughter, Clarissa. Betsy's story of creating the first American flag was first publicly relayed by her grandson in 1870, 34 years after her death. She passed away on January 30, 1836, in Philadelphia, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the birth of the nation.

Betsy Ross's Key Achievements:

• Skilled needleworker and successful businesswoman in 18th-century America.

• Credited with sewing the first American flag at the request of George Washington and others in 1776.

• Contributed to the American Revolution through her craft and by providing flags and other materials.

• Overcame personal tragedies, including the loss of two husbands, to sustain her family and business.

• Became an enduring symbol of American history and women's contributions to the founding of the United States.

Betsy Ross remains a significant figure in American history, primarily known for her role in creating the first American flag. Her life story, marked by personal resilience and professional skill, reflects the spirit of the Revolutionary era. She not only contributed to the war effort but also set an example as a successful female entrepreneur in a time when women's roles were largely confined to the domestic sphere. Her legacy continues to inspire and symbolize the birth of the nation.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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