The Historical Society of Frankford today announced that Sam Katz, president of History Making Productions, will make a video presentation at HSF’s monthly meeting and lecture on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. He will present episode 7, Renewal, of his series In Pursuit: Philadelphia and the Making of America. The film explores Philadelphia from 1925 to 1963, a period shaped by the Great Depression, World War II, political transformation, and ambitious efforts to remake the city. Through stories of Albert M. Greenfield, shifting political power, racial discrimination in housing and employment, and the rise of urban renewal, the episode examines who benefited from Philadelphia’s reinvention and who was left behind.
Katz, a lifelong Philadelphian now well known for ventures in business, politics, and documentary filmmaking, realized in 2007 that no authoritative film history then existed for his hometown. To fill that void, he assembled a team of scholars, storytellers, and filmmakers to create inclusive and compelling video presentations. This team would become History Making Productions, which since then has produced award winning and widely acclaimed films about Philadelphia and other
cities.
Doors open at 7:00 PM, and the presentation begins at 7:30. It will also stream live on the HSF Facebook page. The event is free and open to the public at the Society's building, located at 1507 Orthodox St, Philadelphia. Free, off street parking will be available across Orthodox Street at the Frankford Friends School. Light refreshments will be served before and after the presentation.