The 295th Annual Dinner of the Library Company of Philadelphia
For almost 300 years, the Library Company of Philadelphia has gathered annually to celebrate our steadfast commitment to learning. We are pleased to announce that our 295th Annual Dinner will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, with a featured presentation by historian Dr. William Woys Weaver.
Dr. Weaver will be discussing his new book, Pepperpot City: Philadelphia and the Foundation of American Cuisine, An Illustrated History (University of Pennsylvania Press, 2026). Weaver’s lavishly illustrated book explores Philadelphia’s pivotal role in shaping American food culture, including the creation of dishes like the hamburger, lemon meringue pie, and the spicy pepperpot stew for which the book is named.
The Library Company has long collaborated with Dr. Weaver, from his work on The Larder Invaded exhibition forty years ago to his recent generous gift of the William Woys Weaver Collection of Culinary Ephemera. We hope you will join us for what will no doubt be a mouthwatering evening celebrating Philadelphia’s long history as a “foodie” town.
If you have questions about sponsorship or ticket levels, please call our development team at (215) 546-3181 ext. 118, or email [email protected].