Join us for What’s Behind the Wall!? A free Open House event at Founder’s Hall celebrating the museum’s Spring Opening!
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. The museum illuminates the legacy of the school he founded, which has fascinated Philadelphia visitors since the 19th century, and became the focus of a key Northern civil rights case in the 20th century. Since classes began in 1848, Girard College has provided free residential education for 22,000 children and continues to educate youth today. After having been closed since May 2022 for building renovations, Founder’s Hall Museum is excited to welcome visitors back in 2024. The museum exhibits have been reinstalled, with expanded sections on Girard College’s civil rights history, architecture, student life over the years, and the school’s relationship with the surrounding neighborhood.
We welcome you behind the 10-foot stone wall surrounding the college for an afternoon of exploration, learning, reflection, and fun! There are many activities: minitours, board and card games, a drum circle, yoga classes, and more. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided as you mingle with others from the local community. This is your opportunity to discover the historic importance of Girard College and experience Founder’s Hall in a new way. You will not want to miss this event!
The MA Museum Studies students from the University of the Arts are hosting this event in
conjunction with Founder’s Hall Museum and the Museum Council of Greater Philadelphia,
with special support from community partners.