Philadelphia in Pennsylvania and Krefeld in North Rhine-Westphalia share a historic connection: On October 6, 1683, 340 years ago, 13 Quaker and Mennonite families from Krefeld landed in Pennsylvania and founded Germantown. This event remains vivid through many traces to this day, with family ties spanning the Atlantic and centuries. The German-American friendship is still palpable, influencing each other’s way of life. Both cities reference each other, and both still have Mennonite communities.

The “Philadelphia Inquirer” and the “Rheinische Post,” regional and local media in Philadelphia and Krefeld, narrate this special city connection in a joint project called “Krephilly.” It explores the lives of people in Philadelphia and Krefeld who are part of this shared history. “Krephilly” tells the story of how American Krefeld is and how German Philadelphia is. It introduces individuals connected to each other’s city and delves into politics, landmarks, leisure, and culture: What defines Philadelphia and Krefeld today? “Krephilly” also explores the gripping history of people immigrating to a new, unknown world, driven by a longing for freedom. It commemorates a significant human achievement: German immigrants drafted the first anti-slavery petition.

Presented through images, text, and video on the “Philadelphia Inquirer” and “Rheinische Post” websites, social media, and newspapers, “Krephilly” demonstrates how cultural understanding, a quest for freedom, openness, and curiosity persist to this day. It allows readers to actively participate by sharing their thoughts and stories.

Previous reports:

Rheinische Post

Philadelphia Inquirer

The article was written by the Rheinische Post for the blog of the NRW-USA Year.

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