Where:
2101 S College Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19121
When:
-
Sundays
12am to 11:59:59pm
-
Mondays
12am to 11:59:59pm
-
Tuesdays
12am to 11:59:59pm
-
Wednesdays
12am to 11:59:59pm
-
Thursdays
12am to 11:59:59pm
-
Fridays
12am to 11:59:59pm
-
Saturdays
12am to 11:59:59pm
Come behind the wall of Girard College and find out more about one of Philadelphia’s richest and most influential citizens and the legacy of the unique school he founded.
Stephen Girard – merchant, banker and landowner – was the wealthiest man in America when he died in 1831. In an unprecedented philanthropic act, he left his fortune to establish Girard College, originally endowed to educate “poor white male orphans.”
Housed in a magnificent Greek Revival landmark, Founder’s Hall Museum offers a glimpse into the complex life of America’s first multi-millionaire and illuminates the history of a school which has fascinated visitors since the 19th century, became the focus of a key Northern civil rights case in the 20th century, and continues to educate youth today.
Following an 18-month construction closure, the museum has been reinstalled with expanded sections on the College’s civil rights history, architecture, student life, and relationship with the surrounding neighborhood.
Stephen Girard – merchant, banker and landowner – was the wealthiest man in America when he died in 1831. In an unprecedented philanthropic act, he left his fortune to establish Girard College, originally endowed to educate “poor white male orphans.”
Housed in a magnificent Greek Revival landmark, Founder’s Hall Museum offers a glimpse into the complex life of America’s first multi-millionaire and illuminates the history of a school which has fascinated visitors since the 19th century, became the focus of a key Northern civil rights case in the 20th century, and continues to educate youth today.
Following an 18-month construction closure, the museum has been reinstalled with expanded sections on the College’s civil rights history, architecture, student life, and relationship with the surrounding neighborhood.
Accessibility Information
Please note that the museum is on the second floor of Founder's Hall and stairs are unavoidable in our historic building.
Because Girard College is an active 1-12 school, all visitors must check in with security when arriving on campus
Because Girard College is an active 1-12 school, all visitors must check in with security when arriving on campus
