History Encounters

Student groups, usually traveling by school group, experience a remarkable, multi-day journey beyond the classroom.

What is History Encounters?

Based at our Valley Forge campus, History Encounters brings the events and people that shaped American democracy to life through captivating recounts of historic events and excursions to memorable sites throughout the greater Philadelphia region and beyond. Students get to hear from and converse with historical figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Ned Hector, and Abigail Adams, portrayed by nationally recognized professional actors.

Founding Forward works with educators and group leaders to coordinate the experience so teachers and their students can spend time focused on the learning experience. Reach out to us to learn more or to bring your students to a History Encounters.

Journeys through history

Visit historic locations in Valley Forge, Greater Philadelphia, and Lancaster.

What you'll see

Independence Hall
Liberty Bell
Valley Forge
Museum of the American Revolution
Washington's Crossing & Trenton Barracks
National Constitution Center
Amish Country
Colonial Plantation

History encounters to remember

I left with a greater appreciation for our founding fathers.

Emily

Student

It was an outstanding trip. I learned so much. I never enjoyed social studies as a kid because the extent of my education was a textbook. Having this hands-on experience was an outstanding way to learn, and everyone who planned and ran this program did a great job.

Joseph

Student

Staff was enthusiastic, engaging, kind, and very knowledgeable!

David

Parent

The substantive material that is presented to the kids and the way in which it is presented through visual hands-on displays and auditory information provide a much better education and make our history much more “real” than using a textbook.

Jane

Parent

The onsite attention to detail in planning our excursions and being available to us for any issues that came up during our stay. The staff was very kind and went out of their way to help.

Mr. Davis

Teacher

FAQs

Read our FAQs below or email us at education@foundingforward.org with additional questions.

How much does this program cost?

Costs vary based on where the group is visiting and their length of stay. The all-inclusive History Encounters program includes meals, room accommodations on our Valley Forge campus, guides, bus transportation to historic sites, and admission fees. Airfare is not included; however, we have a preferred travel agent who can provide direct assistance. Inquire with our staff today to learn more.

Is financial assistance available?

Founding Forward can provide various fundraising suggestions that allow greater accessibility to the History Encounters program to those who wish to attend. Please contact us to learn more.

What are the sleeping arrangements?

Founding Forward’s private, secluded 75-acre campus has three dormitory buildings. Rooms can sleep two, three, four, or five students, and all rooms have either a private bathroom or a jack & jill bathroom. Bedding, pillows, and towels are included.

Can the building accommodate my needs?

Though the campus was built in the 1960s and 70s, every building has a ramp entrance, and we have rooms that can accommodate various needs. Our tour buses have handicap and wheelchair entrances. Some historical sites may not be ADA accessible.

How long is the trip?

Most History Encounters experiences span one week (Monday – Friday). Certain groups opt to extend their travel, while others have chosen to spend less time.

How many students can attend?

Founding Forward can comfortably house 110 students and chaperones on its Valley Forge campus. If a group exceeds this number, multiple trips can accommodate all participants.

What should students pack?

Once a group is scheduled to visit our program, we will provide a packing list.

Will students have free time?

Students’ experiences will be filled with exciting content balanced with free time with their peers. Our campus includes an indoor game room, outdoor basketball, and volleyball courts, and plenty of open space for pickup games.

How much physical activity is involved?

There is a moderate amount of walking on our campus and at historic sites.

How much money should students bring?

Since this is an all-inclusive journey, there are only two real reasons for students to bring money: souvenirs and snacks. Everything else, including all meals, is included.

What if students miss games and practice?

This is a once-in-a-lifetime educational opportunity, and as such, we ask parents and students to weigh it next to other commitments like sports and work. If possible, it is always helpful when the school administration alerts coaches of impending class travel, giving them adequate time to adjust schedules.

What about class time missed?

Travel is a great learning experience, especially through Founding Forward’s programs. This is not a vacation but an educational experience. Participants will visit one-of-a-kind historical locations and learn about thinkers, inventors, artists, scientists, and politicians who accomplished great things while also gaining insight into how people lived their day-to-day lives.

What are Founding Forward’s cancellation and refund policies?

Founding Forward reserves the right to cancel a program due to weather emergency, low attendance, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. Should Founding Forward cancel a program, full refunds will be made to all clients by the method the client originally paid. Please allow up to 30 days for refunds to be processed.

We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.

Cancellations made by the client must be received in writing at education@ffvf.org.

Cancellations made prior to 30 days before the start of a program will receive a full refund less the non-refundable deposit (variable by program) and any non-refundable expenses. Refunds will be issued in the same form payment was made. Please allow 30 days for refunds to be processed.

Cancellations made 30 days or less before the start of a program are subject to a Founding Forward credit less the deposit and any non-refundable expenses (such as tickets or meals) which cannot be refunded, credited, or transferred.

Cancellations made less than 48 business hours before departure will receive no refund, credit, or transfer.

Help us inspire tomorrow’s leaders

Founding Forward’s work and mission is made possible through voluntary contributions. We need your support to ensure a future rooted in liberty. Please join our efforts to uphold our democratic system of government with your tax-deductible contribution.

Upcoming Programs

Spirit of America IX

Library Hour: The Partnership: The Partnership that Won World War II with author Ted Aldrich

History Encounters

What is History Encounters?

Journeys through history

What you'll see

History encounters to remember

FAQs

Help us inspire tomorrow’s leaders

Upcoming Programs

Spirit of America IX

Library Hour: The Partnership: The Partnership that Won World War II with author Ted Aldrich

History Encounters

What is History Encounters?

Journeys through history

What you'll see

History encounters to remember​

FAQs

Help us inspire tomorrow’s leaders

History encounters to remember