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.
Museum Open Hours
Please note that Founder’s Hall will be closed Nov 27-Nov 29 for the Girard College Fall Break
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.
- December 14, 12-4 PM: Hum for the Holidays
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.
- Saturday, December 14, 4 PM Register on Eventbrite.
Explore the Founder’s Hall Museum at Girard College using the links below: