11th Grade U.S. History students at the High School of Fashion Industries recently had the opportunity to make history come alive through the Gilder Lehrman Institute for American History’s Hamilton Education Program, also known as EduHam. Over five days, students dove into the American Revolution and Founding Era, connecting classroom learning to creative expression. They researched primary sources and wrote original performance pieces—songs, raps, and scripts—that highlighted key moments and figures who helped shape the nation. Many students chose to focus on lesser-known individuals, such as Phillis Wheatley and Benjamin Banneker, uncovering the powerful stories of people whose contributions are often left out of traditional narratives.
The experience culminated in a special trip to the Richard Rodgers Theatre on October 29, where thirty students attended a live performance of Hamilton. The day began with inspiring remarks from Christopher Jackson, the original Broadway actor who played George Washington, followed by a full-length production of the musical. Afterward, students took part in a Q&A session with members of the cast and crew, gaining insight into both the artistry and historical storytelling that make Hamilton so impactful. The EduHam experience allowed students to see how history and creativity intertwine—showing that the voices of the past continue to inspire the changemakers of today.
