Last year, you joined us for the Year of the Spy, a series of activations and programming in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the secret meetings between Benjamin Franklin, John Jay, and French emissary Julien Alexandre Achard de Bonvouloir that took place on the second floor of Carpenters' Hall in winter 1775! 

In partnership with Arch Street Meeting House, join us once again for an evening of spycraft and women's history on Monday, October 10th from 6:30 to 8pm at Carpenters' Hall. Lydia Darragh (1729-1789) was a Irish immigrant and Quaker who passed on information to the Continental Army that she gleaned from British officer meetings that took place in her home in Philadelphia. Darragh overheard General Howe's plan to attack Continental troops at Whitemarsh, and was able to warn Washington's troops, allowing them time to prepare for the assault. 

Darragh is buried at Arch Street Meeting House. She also has several connections to Carpenters' Company members, including Abraham Carlile (executed for treason in November 1778) and Thomas Neville. 

The evening will begin with a short performance from Megan Bellwoar, Lydia Darragh actor. Then there will be a discussion between Darragh biographer Robert Fanelli and Megan Bellwoar, followed by audience Q&A. Copies of Mr. Fanelli's book, Lydia's Tale: The Mystery of Lydia Darragh, Irish Quaker, Patriot Spy (2025) will be avaiable for purchase. 

This event is graciously sponsored by the Government of Ireland.

General Admission tickets are $5. 

About the Performer

Megan Bellwoar has been a grateful member of the Philadelphia theatre community for 30+ years. Recent directing projects: VANYA & SONYA & MASHA & SPIKE (DeSales University), THE OWL & THE PUSSYCAT and THE FANTASTICKS  (Quintessence), CHILDREN OF THE SUN (Phila Artists Collective), A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE (New Light Theatre, 2023 Barrymore nom/Outstanding Direction of a Play). Acting credits include Arden Theatre Company, the Lantern, Walnut Street Theatre, Inis Nua, Delaware Theatre Company, 1812 Productions, PA Shakespeare Festival and People's Light. Media/Barrymore acting nominations for CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF (Arden), COLLECTED STORIES (WST), THE WEIR (Arden), and BEAUTY QUEEN OF LEENANE (Lantern), among others. The play you will hear tonight, Insignificant, was developed through the Jilline Ringle Solo Performance Program at 1812 Productions.