Art of Aging: Women bring history to life

OLD CITY (WPVI) -- In today's Art of Aging, two women are bringing a bygone era to life.

Every year, 200,000 people visit the Betsy Ross House in Old City and the caretakers there have revolutionized how the story of America's most famous seamstress is told.

Carol Spacht, also known as Betsy Ross is a historical interpreter.

She has a background in children's theater, but she gave up her career to raise her children.

Carol says, "I wanted to pick that up again; it was time for mom to do something for herself."

She started working for the Betsy Ross House 11 years ago.

Lisa Acker Moulder, Director of the Betsy Ross House said, "In the last 10 years, we've made an effort to make it a living, breathing home. Visitors leave here feeling a connection to Betsy and her story, and I think that's because of Carol and her wonderful interpretation."

For Carol, the job is a second chance to indulge her love of acting.

Sandy McDowell, a grandmother who loves being around people, also finds joy in being a tour guide.

"We have as many as a thousand a day that come here to the Betsy Ross House and it's just so rewarding for me to help them and guide them through the house... and that makes me active and keeps my life exciting. I don't want to stay home yet. I'm not ready for that chair yet," Sandy said.

Sandy and Carol are both paid employees rather than volunteers.

For more opportunities for seniors, just head to our Art of Aging section.