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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. Founded in 1976 as part of the nation's Bicentennial celebration, the museum is located at 7th and Arch Streets in Old City, presenting the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans through exhibitions, programs, and collections.[1]

Philadelphia has one of the most significant African American histories of any American city, from the earliest colonial settlements through the abolitionist movement, the Great Migration, and the civil rights era. The museum interprets this rich heritage through rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement, serving as a vital institution for preserving and sharing African American stories.[2]

History

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Founding

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The African American Museum in Philadelphia was established in 1976 during America's Bicentennial celebration. The city of Philadelphia created the museum to ensure that African American contributions to American history would be represented in the commemorations.

The museum was the first of its kind—a major municipal institution specifically dedicated to African American history and culture.

The Building

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The museum is housed in a modern building at 7th and Arch Streets, designed to provide flexible exhibition space for rotating displays and programs. The location places it within the Independence National Historical Park area, connecting African American history to the broader story of American democracy.

Mission

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The museum's mission is to:

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

Exhibitions

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Core Exhibitions

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The museum presents rotating exhibitions exploring various aspects of African American history and culture. Themes frequently addressed include:

  • 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

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  • Explorations of Philadelphia's role in the Underground Railroad
  • Tributes to African American music and musicians
  • Examinations of civil rights leaders and movements
  • Celebrations of African American inventors and innovators
  • Contemporary art exhibitions

Audacious Freedom

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A signature exhibition exploring Philadelphia's African American communities from the colonial era through the 19th century, highlighting:

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

Philadelphia's African American History

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The museum interprets Philadelphia's unique African American heritage:

Colonial Era

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  • Early free Black residents
  • Enslaved Africans in colonial Philadelphia
  • Gradual emancipation in Pennsylvania (1780)

19th Century

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  • Mother Bethel AME Church (founded 1794)
  • Abolitionist movement leaders
  • Underground Railroad activity
  • Octavius Catto and the fight for voting rights

Great Migration

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  • Thousands of African Americans moved from the South
  • North and West Philadelphia communities grew
  • Cultural and economic development
  • Jazz, gospel, and artistic flowering

Civil Rights Era

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  • Philadelphia activism and organizing
  • Cecil B. Moore and community leadership
  • School desegregation efforts
  • Continuing struggles for equality

Visiting the Museum

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Hours

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

Admission

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  • 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

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  • Allow 1-2 hours for a visit
  • Check website for current exhibitions
  • Guided tours available
  • Combine with visits to nearby historic sites
  • Gift shop features African American books, art, and crafts

Getting There

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  • SEPTA Market-Frankford Line: 5th Street Station
  • SEPTA Bus: Multiple routes on Market Street
  • PHLASH: Independence Mall stop
  • Walking: Central Old City location
  • Parking: Independence Mall garage nearby

Nearby Attractions

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Programs and Events

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Educational Programs

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

Public Programs

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  • Lectures and discussions
  • Film screenings
  • Cultural celebrations
  • Juneteenth events
  • Black History Month programming
  • Artist talks

Community Engagement

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The museum serves as a community gathering place for:

  • Dialogues on race and history
  • Cultural celebrations
  • Commemorations and ceremonies
  • Civic engagement activities

See Also

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References

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