The Rosenbach marks the 150th anniversary of this internationally beloved story in fantastic fashion.

Follow us down the rabbit hole as we bring Wonderland to the heart of Philadelphia with a captivating exhibition and an exciting schedule of public programming exploring the many facets of this literary classic, including a pop-up display of the incredible original manuscript. Revisit the fun and fanciful characters you know and love, and learn the fascinating stories behind the story.

Throughout the opening week of our celebration, Carroll’s original illustrated manuscript, on loan from the British Library, will be on display. See the manuscript here at the Rosenbach from October 14 – 18. (more)

The broader exhibition will immerse visitors in the imaginative world of Lewis Carroll through three distinctive parts:

Part One, Wonderland Rules: Alice at 150, will consider Carroll as an out-of-the-box thinker, and explore Alice’s profound cultural legacy and the continuing impact of Carroll’s famous work. Part Two, Alice in Phillyland, will shed light on the story of Alice and Philadelphia, including the internationally renowned purchase of the manuscript at auction by Philadelphia book dealer A.S.W. Rosenbach for a world-record price. Part Three, Why is a Raven like a Writing Desk? Lewis Carroll’s Riddles, Puzzles and Games, will give visitors the opportunity to learn more about Carroll as a mathematician and puzzle lover, trying their hand at some of his mind-bending inventions in an interactive gallery.

“How do you know I’m mad?” said Alice.
“You must be,” said the Cat, “or you wouldn’t have come here.”

Teachers, click here to learn more about our curriculum guide based on the exhibition.

The Rosenbach is grateful for the generous support of:

Bayer, NBC10, American Airlines, Cozen O’Connor, David H. and Betsy W. Wice, and the Peter J. Solomon Family Foundation.

With thanks to the Samuel S. Fels Fund, the Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation.