Visit Founder's Hall Museum

After being closed since May 2022 for building renovations, the Founder's Hall Museum is excited to be reopening January 3d. The museum is now self-guided, allowing more flexible visitation.

Housed in a magnificent Greek Revival landmark, the Founder’s Hall Museum offers a glimpse into the complex life of Stephen Girard, America’s first multi-millionaire, and illuminates the legacy of a school which he founded, which has fascinated Philadelphia 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.

Come behind the wall at Girard College to explore our monumental building and historical collections. From 18th-century decorative arts to civil rights photographs to ginger cakes, the Founder's Hall museum is full of fascinating history and quirky surprises. In addition to our permanent exhibit, our new changing exhibition space currently features an exhibit on science education in the 19th and early 20th centuries

We are open: Wednesday through Friday 10 AM to 4 PM. Check our website for more information about our collections and about special events.

•Founder's Hall is a National Historic Landmark. The museum is located on the second floor and requires climbing a flight of stairs to view.

• The museum is FREE, and open to everyone. Advance registration is helpful for us, but walk-in visitors are very welcome.

•Because Girard College is an active school, you will quickly check in with security when arriving on campus.

•The exhibits are self-guided, but if you would like to arrange a guided group or class visit, please see our website for more information.

• There is parking available on-site; Founder's Hall is also accessible by several bus lines and is a half-mile walk from the Girard Ave. subway stop.

Host or Publisher Kathy Haas, Director of Historical Resources, Girard College