Philadelphia History Museum
| Type | History museum |
|---|---|
| Address | 15 South 7th Street |
| Map | View on Google Maps |
| Neighborhood | Old City |
| Phone | (215) 685-4830 |
| Website | Official site |
| Established | 1938 |
| Founder | A. Atwater Kent |
| Hours | Check website for hours |
The Philadelphia History Museum (formerly the Atwater Kent Museum) is dedicated to the history of Philadelphia from its founding to the present day. Located in a historic building at 15 South 7th Street in Old City, the museum houses artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Philadelphia's neighborhoods, people, industries, and cultural life across three centuries.[1]
The museum was founded by radio manufacturer A. Atwater Kent in 1938 and operated as the Atwater Kent Museum until 2012, when it was renamed the Philadelphia History Museum. The institution has focused on everyday Philadelphia life—the neighborhoods, communities, and ordinary people who have made the city what it is.
History
A. Atwater Kent
A. Atwater Kent (1873-1949) was a Philadelphia industrialist who made his fortune manufacturing radios. In the 1930s, Kent proposed creating a museum of Philadelphia history and donated funds to establish it.
The Building
The museum occupies the former Franklin Institute building, an 1826 Greek Revival structure designed by John Haviland. The building itself is a historic landmark.
The Atwater Kent Museum
For decades, the museum operated as the Atwater Kent Museum of Philadelphia History, presenting:
- Philadelphia artifacts and collections
- Neighborhood histories
- Industrial and commercial history
- Everyday life in Philadelphia
Renaming and Changes
In 2012, the museum was renamed the Philadelphia History Museum at the Atwater Kent to emphasize its mission of telling Philadelphia's story. The museum has experienced operational changes in recent years—visitors should check the website for current status and hours.
Collections
Focus Areas
The museum's collections encompass:
- Everyday objects: Items from Philadelphia homes and businesses
- Photographs: Extensive visual documentation of the city
- Documents: Papers, maps, and records
- Trade and commerce: Philadelphia industries
- Neighborhoods: Community histories across the city
Notable Holdings
- Early Philadelphia views and maps
- Centennial Exposition materials
- Commercial and industrial artifacts
- Philadelphia-made goods
- Photographic collections
Neighborhood Stories
Unlike museums focused on famous figures, the Philadelphia History Museum has emphasized:
- Working-class life
- Immigrant communities
- Neighborhood development
- Industrial workers
- Everyday Philadelphians
Visiting the Museum
Current Status
The museum has experienced operational changes. Before visiting:
- Check the website for current hours
- Confirm the museum is open
- Review current exhibitions
Location
15 South 7th Street, between Market and Chestnut Streets in Old City
Getting There
- SEPTA Market-Frankford Line: 5th Street Station
- SEPTA Bus: Routes 17, 33, 44, 48
- Walking: Central Old City location
- Parking: Independence Mall garage nearby
Nearby Attractions
- Independence Hall (2 blocks)
- Liberty Bell (2 blocks)
- National Constitution Center (3 blocks)
- African American Museum in Philadelphia (1 block)
See Also
References
- ↑ "Philadelphia History Museum". Philadelphia History Museum. Retrieved December 30, 2025