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At the river Scheldt, 1926, by Eugeen Van Mieghem

Tuesday, April 29, 2008, Evening
Antwerp to Philadelphia —
Historic Voyages Captured by Art
Details to be announced

Between 1873 and 1935, a Belgian shipping line known as the Red Star Line transported nearly three million emigrants from Antwerp to the United States. At the turn of the century, Belgian artist Eugeen Van Mieghem captured this extraordinary tale through his unique works of art. Erwin Joos

Join us for a special evening as Erwin Joos, curator of the Van Mieghem Museum, tells the stories behind Van Mieghem’s paintings to create a compelling view of Philadelphia’s history. This exclusive event will be hosted by Council director Amy Nislow, whose home was originally designed for shipbuilder Clement A. Griscom, president of the Red Star line and owner of the Titanic.

Read more:
Visit the Van Mieghem museum's website
Van Mieghems paintings and the emigrants of the Red Star Line,
New York Times, July 21, 2006

The Honorable Michael Wilson with Council president Claudia McBride and Council chairman Tony Conti.

The Ambassador of Canada to the United States, the Honorable Michael Wilson (April 2, 2008)

On Wednesday, April 2, a luncheon and program was held featuring the Honorable Michael Wilson, Ambassador of Canada. This program was in partnership with the Consulate of Canada in Philadelphia. We are also grateful for the cooperation and support of the World Trade Center of Philadelphia and the Global Interdependence Center.

Ambassador Wilson assumed his responsibilities as ambassador in March 2006. He was elected to the House of Commons in 1979 and was later appointed Minister of Finance and remained in that position until 1991. He then became Minister of Industry, Science and Technology and Minister of International Trade. During his tenure as a member of the Cabinet, Ambassador Wilson represented Canada at several international trade and development organizations, including the International Monetary Fund, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the G-7 Ministers meetings, to name a few.

Prior to his career in public life, Ambassador Wilson had an extensive career with leading Canadian financial institutions. He served as chairman of UBS Canada and vice chairman of the Royal Bank of Canada Dominion Securities. In these positions, he oversaw Canadian investment banking operations and provided advice to both Canadian and international companies and governments.

To attend wonderful programs like this and those listed above, upgrade to Envoy membership or higher by calling Membership, Director of Development, on 215-561-4700, ext. 221 or 222.