African American Museum in Philadelphia

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African American Museum in Philadelphia



TypeHistory and culture museum
Address701 Arch Street
MapView on Google Maps
NeighborhoodOld City
Phone(215) 574-0380
WebsiteOfficial site
Established1976
FounderCity of Philadelphia
DirectorAshley Jordan
HoursWed-Sat 10 AM - 5 PM; Sun 12-5 PM
African American Museum in Philadelphia(215) 574-0380701 Arch StreetPhiladelphiaPAUS

The African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP) is the first institution built by a major American city to house and interpret the life and work of African Americans. When it opened in 1976, it became part of the nation's Bicentennial celebration. You'll find it at 7th and Arch Streets in Old City, where it presents the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans through exhibitions, programs, and collections.[1]

Philadelphia's African American history is among the richest in any American city. From the earliest colonial settlements through the abolitionist movement, the Great Migration, and the civil rights era, the story here runs deep. The museum interprets this heritage through rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement, serving as a vital place for preserving and sharing African American stories.[2]

History

Founding

Philadelphia founded this museum in 1976 during America's Bicentennial. The city wanted to make sure African American contributions to American history would actually show up in the celebrations.

This was unprecedented. No major city had ever built a municipal institution specifically dedicated to African American history and culture before.

The Building

The museum sits in a modern building at 7th and Arch Streets, offering flexible exhibition space for rotating displays and programs. Location matters here. By placing the institution within the Independence National Historical Park area, it connects African American history to the broader American democracy story.

Mission

The museum exists to:

  • Preserve and interpret African American history and culture
  • Educate visitors about African American contributions
  • Build dialogue about race and identity
  • Celebrate African American achievements
  • Connect communities through shared history

Exhibitions

Core Exhibitions

The museum presents rotating exhibitions on various aspects of African American history and culture. Here's what you'll typically find explored:

  • Slavery and Freedom: The journey from bondage to liberty
  • Migration: The Great Migration and its impact on Philadelphia
  • Civil Rights: The struggle for equality
  • Arts and Culture: African American creative expression
  • Philadelphia Stories: Local African American history

Past Notable Exhibitions

Philadelphia's Underground Railroad role gets examined here regularly. African American music and musicians have received their due. Civil rights leaders and movements show up in tributes. Exhibitions celebrate African American inventors and innovators. Contemporary art exhibitions rotate through as well.

Audacious Freedom

This signature exhibition explores Philadelphia's African American communities from the colonial era through the 19th century. What it covers:

  • Free Black communities
  • The abolition movement
  • African American entrepreneurs and professionals
  • Religious and civic institutions
  • The fight for freedom and citizenship

Philadelphia's African American History

The museum interprets a heritage unlike anywhere else in America:

Colonial Era

  • Early free Black residents lived and worked here
  • Enslaved Africans made up part of colonial Philadelphia
  • Pennsylvania began gradual emancipation in 1780

19th Century

Mother Bethel AME Church was founded in 1794. Abolitionist movement leaders lived in the city. Underground Railroad activity happened throughout the region. Octavius Catto fought for voting rights.

Great Migration

Thousands of African Americans moved north from the South. North and West Philadelphia communities exploded in size. Cultural development flourished. Economic opportunity grew. Jazz, gospel, and artistic creativity bloomed.

Civil Rights Era

Philadelphia had its own activism. Cecil B. Moore led community organizing. School desegregation became a central struggle. The fight for equality continued.

Visiting the Museum

Hours

  • Wednesday-Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Closed: Monday and Tuesday
  • Closed on major holidays

Admission

  • Adults: Approximately $14 (check website for current pricing)
  • Seniors/Students: Discounted rates
  • Children (4 and under): Free
  • Free admission on select days (check website)

Tips

Plan for 1-2 hours. Check the website for current exhibitions before you go. They offer guided tours. You might want to hit nearby historic sites while you're in the neighborhood. The gift shop has African American books, art, and crafts worth browsing.

Getting There

  • SEPTA Market-Frankford Line: 5th Street Station
  • SEPTA Bus: Multiple routes on Market Street
  • PHLASH: Independence Mall stop
  • Walking: It's in central Old City
  • Parking: Independence Mall garage is nearby

Nearby Attractions

Programs and Events

Educational Programs

  • School programs and field trips
  • Teacher resources and workshops
  • Youth programs
  • Family activities

Public Programs

The museum runs lectures and discussions throughout the year. Film screenings happen regularly. They celebrate cultural events like Juneteenth and Black History Month. Artist talks and exhibitions accompany the shows.

Community Engagement

This isn't just a museum. It's a gathering place where communities come together for dialogues on race and history, cultural celebrations, commemorations, and civic engagement activities.

See Also

References

  1. ↑ "About AAMP". African American Museum in Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025
  2. ↑ "African American Museum in Philadelphia". Visit Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025

External Links

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