Members Only
Since 1891, The Geographical Society of Philadelphia has honored such world famous explorers as Theodore Roosevelt, Jacques Cousteau and Robert E. Peary. We couldn’t have sponsored their expeditions and brought you their discoveries without the generous support of members like you.
To thank you for your continued support The Geographical Society of Philadelphia hosts exclusive events that offer it’s members behind the scenes discoveries of our legacy, our archives, with personal access to our dedicated team of board members, staff, and explorers.
This year, we will offer our members an unprecedented entree into the world of far away cultures, with a more intimate opportunity to socialize with fellow members. These exclusive evenings will be hosted by our board members whose passions, careers and endeavors will take you across the globe.
Recent Members Only Events
Viewing of Historic Private Collection
GEO Board Member, Paul Spangler, is an inveterate traveler and a collector of rare and unique historical documents, and art. He opened his home and his significant private-collection to our most valued members for an intimate gathering and viewing of these singular items. Paul’s collection includes documents and newspapers dating back to America’s quest for independence in the late 1700’s. November 2017
Step Inside Iran by Parisa Abdollahi
Members only of GEO stepped into the world of the semi-nomadic Qashqai tribe! Parisa’s father, a sixth-generation Qashqai rug merchant talked about leading the tribe, and Parisa’s mother made a delicious Persian stew. The guests enjoyed the presentations and wine amongst the beautiful imports at Parisa’s Rug store. April 2016.
Cultural Heritage in the Middle East: War and Identity by Salam al-Kuntar
Syrian Archeologist Salam al-Kuntar discussed preserving heritage in a time of war at the Pyramid Club. Al-Kuntar left her native Syria in 2012, coming to The University of Pennsylvania where she co-directs the Safeguarding the Heritage of Syria and Iraq Initiative. Our members enjoyed an intimate cocktail reception at this prestigious club, and had an exclusive opportunity to learn how leading institutions across the world collaborated to safeguard and rescue the cultural artifacts and world heritage sites from destruction by ISIS.
