Philadelphia viewers will soon have a new window onto the city’s past. History Making Productions is rolling out a ten‑part documentary titled In Pursuit – Philadelphia and the Making of America, which traces the region from the arrival of the first European colonists and the Lenni Lenape peoples through the signing of the Declaration of Independence and on to the present day.
Series structure and release schedule
The series is organized into five named episodes that will be released throughout 2026. The episodes, listed in order of broadcast, are:
- Episode 1 – Freedom
- Episode 2 – Land
- Episode 3 – Independence
- Episode 4 – Common Ground
- Episode 5 – America
Each full episode will be followed by a companion program on local station 6abc, branded 6abc In Pursuit of Philadelphia History. The companion shows will provide additional context, interviews with local historians, and opportunities for viewers to engage with the material.
Why the series matters to Philadelphians
Philadelphia’s story is intertwined with the nation’s founding. While the signing of the Declaration of Independence at Independence Hall 250 years ago is a well‑known milestone, the city’s earlier history—including the lives of the Lenni Lenape and the early colonial settlements—has received less public attention. By presenting this broader narrative, the series aims to deepen residents’ understanding of how local events shaped the United States and how contemporary Philadelphia reflects that heritage.
Local partnership and community outreach
6abc’s involvement underscores the station’s commitment to educational programming that serves the city’s families and faith‑based communities. The broadcaster plans to promote the series through local schools, churches, and civic groups, encouraging discussion about the city’s legacy and its relevance to today’s families.
What viewers can expect
Audiences can look forward to high‑quality production values, on‑location filming at historic sites such as Independence Hall, the historic district, and former Lenni Lenape lands. Interviews with scholars, descendants of early settlers, and community leaders will provide multiple perspectives on the city’s evolution.
As each episode airs, 6abc will host a follow‑up program that invites viewers to submit questions, share personal stories, and explore how Philadelphia’s past informs current civic life. The station encourages families to watch together, fostering intergenerational dialogue about the city’s role in the nation’s founding and its ongoing story.
How to watch
The first episode, Freedom, is slated for release early in the year, with subsequent episodes rolling out at regular intervals. Viewers can tune in to 6abc’s scheduled times for the companion programs and will also find the full episodes available on the station’s website and streaming platforms after broadcast.
Philadelphia residents interested in learning more about the series can visit 6abc’s website or follow the station’s social‑media channels for updates, behind‑the‑scenes content, and community discussion forums.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
