The Athenaeum of Philadelphia invites visitors to explore its remarkable collection of architectural archives and a special exhibition that highlights its historical significance. Established in 1814, The Athenaeum serves as a vital resource for scholars, preservationists, and the general public interested in Philadelphia’s architectural heritage.
Architectural Heritage and Community Access
The Athenaeum’s impressive Italian Renaissance exterior is matched by its rich interior, which has housed various collections since its establishment in a *historic building in 1847*. According to Beth Hessel, Executive Director, the institution aims to be “a place of common and agreeable resort for learning.” With a collection that has grown to include approximately 350,000 architectural drawings and 80,000 books, the Athenaeum focuses primarily on the architecture and architects of Philadelphia.
Visitors can access a range of resources, including a robust object collection featuring artifacts, furnishings, and paintings. While the library operates on a membership basis, Kristina Wilson, Archivist and Gladys Brooks Curator of Architecture, emphasizes that the archives are open to everyone by appointment, encouraging community engagement. “We have more than 3,000 members of all ages,” Hessel adds, highlighting the intergenerational learning community that the Athenaeum fosters.
Special Exhibition and Historical Insights
Currently, the Athenaeum is showcasing a special exhibition titled “To Encourage Outstanding Scholarship,” which celebrates the legacy of Dr. Roger Moss, who served as the Athenaeum’s director from 1968 to 2008. This exhibition, which runs through December 20, 2025, features an original 1805 sketch of the Arch Street Meeting House among various archival materials reflecting Philadelphia’s historical landscape.
Visitors can expect to encounter photographs, drawings, and etchings that highlight the city’s architectural evolution. Tours are available, allowing guests to explore the entire building, including the member lounge and the Busch Room. Hessel describes the Reading Room as “the most beautiful room in Philadelphia,” evoking a sense of nostalgia and enchantment for those who step into this historic space.
The Athenaeum also maintains a “Record of Strangers,” documenting notable visitors such as Charles Dickens, Edgar Allan Poe, and Marquis de Lafayette. Wilson notes that Eliza Hamilton, widow of Alexander Hamilton, visited the Athenaeum in her nineties, adding to the institution’s rich history.
An exclusive component of the tour includes access to the vault, which houses rare books and significant pieces from the collection. Among these is a hand-rendered cross-section of the dome of the Capitol Building, designed by Thomas Ustick Walter.
“The archives aren’t static,” Wilson explains. “They’re as vibrant and alive as they ever were.” She hopes visitors leave with a sense of “wonder and amazement” and a deeper appreciation for Philadelphia’s architectural heritage.
For those interested in exploring this treasure trove of history, “To Encourage Outstanding Scholarship” is free and open to the public by appointment. The Athenaeum of Philadelphia is located at 219 S. 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106. To learn more about the exhibition or to schedule a visit, interested individuals are encouraged to contact the Athenaeum directly.
