Stephen Girard – merchant, banker and landowner – was the wealthiest man in America 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, 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 fascinating Philadelphia 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.