IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS: TRACING THE LINEAGE OF RESISTANCE AGAINST THE PHILADELPHIA BODY TRADE 1765-2021

Abstract

For over 250 years, Philadelphia scientists and doctors have stolen human remains to use in educational and entertainment. The borders of this practice have long been maintained by Philadelphians, making up a landscape of resistance and acceptance. Today many human remains out of the body trade reside in museums and educational institutions. The fight for post-mortem dignity persists in activist circles. resistance against post-mortem exploitation and exhibition have continuous roots in Philadelphia, taking place outside traditional archival scope and within marginalized communities subjected to the very defilement directed at targeted bodies. In Their Footsteps is an intervention into the physical, public landscape in Philadelphia that begins to mark sites of resistance against the body trade and display. The physical landmarks of the body trade, from collectors to subsequent institutions and exhibitions, are visible and protected spaces in the city. It is time to make visible the long-standing practice of resistance. Philadelphia is currently witness now to a fourth major wave of resistance and activism against complicit institutions and individuals. It situates the 2021 movement with three other major events: the Lebanon Cemetery Scandal of 1882, the Blockley Almshouse Board Intervention in 1845, and the Sailor’s Mob of 1765.