National Liberty Museum
| Type | History and art museum |
|---|---|
| Address | 321 Chestnut Street |
| Map | View on Google Maps |
| Neighborhood | Old City |
| Phone | (215) 925-2800 |
| Website | Official site |
| Established | 2000 |
| Founder | Irvin J. Borowsky |
| Hours | Wed-Sun 10 AM - 5 PM |
The National Liberty Museum is a museum dedicated to celebrating freedom and diversity while combating bigotry and violence. Located at 321 Chestnut Street in Old City, the museum uses glass art as a central metaphor—representing both the fragility of freedom and the beauty of a diverse society. Founded in 2000 by publisher Irvin J. Borowsky, the museum features stunning glass sculptures, interactive exhibits, and stories of heroes who have fought for liberty throughout history.[1]
The museum's location in Old City, just blocks from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, connects its contemporary message to America's founding ideals. Through art, education, and recognition of everyday heroes, the National Liberty Museum encourages visitors to reflect on the meaning of liberty and their role in preserving it.[2]
History
[edit | edit source]Founding
[edit | edit source]The National Liberty Museum was founded by Irvin J. Borowsky (1924-2010), a Philadelphia publisher, philanthropist, and World War II veteran. Borowsky created the museum to:
- Celebrate liberty and human dignity
- Combat bigotry, hatred, and violence
- Honor heroes who stand up for freedom
- Use art to inspire positive change
The museum opened in 2000 in a historic building on Chestnut Street.
Mission
[edit | edit source]The museum's mission focuses on:
- Promoting liberty as a universal human right
- Celebrating diversity as America's strength
- Honoring those who risk their lives for freedom
- Educating young people about tolerance and respect
- Using art to convey the beauty and fragility of freedom
Exhibits
[edit | edit source]Glass Art Collection
[edit | edit source]The museum's stunning glass art collection serves as a central metaphor:
- Fragility: Glass represents how easily freedom can be shattered
- Beauty: Glass reflects the beauty of diversity
- Transparency: Open societies require transparency
- Light: Freedom illuminates human potential
Major glass works include:
- Flame of Liberty — Dale Chihuly installation
- Life-size glass figures and sculptures
- Works by internationally renowned glass artists
- Contemporary and traditional glass art techniques
Heroes of Liberty
[edit | edit source]Exhibits celebrating individuals who have fought for freedom:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Political Leaders | Nelson Mandela, Václav Havel, Aung San Suu Kyi |
| Civil Rights Heroes | Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., John Lewis |
| Everyday Heroes | Local individuals who made a difference |
| Young Heroes | Youth who stood up against hatred |
Interactive Experiences
[edit | edit source]- Stories of courage and sacrifice
- Anti-bullying educational programs
- Tolerance and diversity workshops
- Reflection spaces
Themed Galleries
[edit | edit source]- Heroes Gallery: Stories of liberty champions
- Art Gallery: Glass and other artistic mediums
- Education Center: Interactive learning spaces
- Reflection Areas: Quiet contemplation spaces
Programs
[edit | edit source]Youth Programs
[edit | edit source]The museum places special emphasis on educating young people:
- School field trips with curriculum connections
- Anti-bullying workshops
- Leadership development programs
- Young Heroes Awards recognizing youth activists
Public Programs
[edit | edit source]- Lectures and discussions
- Artist demonstrations
- Film screenings
- Community dialogues
- Special events on relevant anniversaries
Awards Programs
[edit | edit source]The museum recognizes:
- Young Heroes: Youth who combat hatred and violence
- Liberty Champions: Adults who exemplify liberty ideals
- Community Leaders: Local heroes making a difference
Visiting the Museum
[edit | edit source]Hours
[edit | edit source]- Wednesday-Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Closed: Monday and Tuesday
- Closed major holidays
Admission
[edit | edit source]- Adults: Approximately $10 (check website for current pricing)
- Seniors/Students: Discounted rates
- Children (5 and under): Free
Tips
[edit | edit source]- Allow 1-1.5 hours for a visit
- The glass art is spectacular—take time to appreciate it
- Good for families and school groups
- Combine with nearby historic sites
- Gift shop features glass art and liberty-themed items
Getting There
[edit | edit source]- SEPTA Market-Frankford Line: 2nd Street Station
- SEPTA Bus: Routes 17, 33, 44, 48
- PHLASH: Independence Hall stop
- Walking: Central Old City location
- Parking: Independence Mall garage, street parking
Nearby Attractions
[edit | edit source]- Independence Hall (2-minute walk)
- Liberty Bell (3-minute walk)
- Carpenters' Hall (2-minute walk)
- Museum of the American Revolution (3-minute walk)
- National Constitution Center (5-minute walk)
See Also
[edit | edit source]- Independence Hall
- Liberty Bell
- Old City, Philadelphia
- Civil Rights in Philadelphia
- Art in Philadelphia
References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "About Us". National Liberty Museum. Retrieved December 30, 2025
- ↑ "National Liberty Museum". Visit Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025