Visitors
Founder's Hall Museum
Stephen Girard – merchant, banker and landowner – was the wealthiest man in American when he died in 1831. In an unprecedented act of philanthropy, he left his fortune to establish Girard College, originally endowed to educate “poor, white male orphans.”
Housed in a magnificent Greek Revival landmark, the Founder’s Hall Museum offers a glimpse into the complex life of America’s first multi-millionaire and illuminates the legacy 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.
From Stephen Girard’s furniture to civil rights photographs to maps of our changing neighborhood, the 7,500 square-foot museum is filled with compelling objects that tell stories extending well beyond our walls. Explore images of vanished architecture, magic lantern slides, and even a 100-year-old cookie to learn about Girard College and its impact. In addition to our permanent exhibit, a changing exhibition space currently showcases the artwork of Girard students.
Museum Open Hours
Walk-in museum hours are Wednesday-Friday 10-4.
Other dates/times are available by appointment.
The museum is self guided and visitors are welcome to stop by for as long or as little as they’d like. No appointment is necessary during walk in hours, but because Girard College is an active school, all visitors must check in with security upon entering the campus. Also note that Founder’s Hall is a historic structure and stairs are unavoidable to visit the museum.
Weekend Openings
In addition to its regular weekday hours, Founder’s Hall Museum hosts a monthly weekend open house. Visitors to the open house can enjoy special themed highlights and activities, along with the opportunity for a self-guided visit to the museum. Like our regular hours, open houses are free and walk-in, no tickets or reservations required.
- Saturday May 17, 11-4: Founder’s Day
- Saturday June 28, 10-2: Neighbor Day
- Saturday July 19, 10-2: Vive La France
Virtual Tours
If you can’t make it to campus, you can explore the museum on your own through our virtual tour
Events
Historical Campus Tours
Join us in-person for a guided walking tour of the Girard College campus to explore its history and architecture and learn about the ongoing work of the school.
- Wednesday, May 21, 3 PM Register on Eventbrite
- Saturday, June 28, 11 AM Register on Eventbrite
- Tuesday, July 15, 10 AM Register on Eventbrite
The French Connection: Lafayette and Girard: July 18, 2 PM
French immigrant Stephen Girard settled in Philadelphia in 1776, but he would not cross paths with his famous countryman the Marquis de Lafayette until Lafayette’s triumphant 1824-1825 American tour. On this tour in honor of the Lafayette Bicentennial, visitors will see seldom-displayed material relating to Girard and Lafayette and explore the role of the French community in Philadelphia. More information and registration.
Explore the Founder’s Hall Museum at Girard College using the links below: