This fabulous museum was established by radio manufacturing pioneer A. Atwater Kent in 1938. His products are the object of serious collectors today, but visitors to the Museum will find much more than the handsome radios of Atwater Kent. Once the home of the Franklin Institute, the Atwater Kent Museum is known as Philadelphia's History Museum, tracing the city's development over 300 years and interpreting this history through ingenious and thoroughly enjoyable exhibits drawn from a collection of more than 40,000 objects. Emphasizing the material culture of urban life, the exhibits mostly address the Industrial Revolution , and Urban Archaeology .
Cultural evolution is examined through many common household items.
If it was used by the average person in the 18th and early 19th centuries, you'll probably find it at Atwater Kent. A children's wing features an absorbing display of old toys, dolls, carousels, and other objects children grew up with in those days. Both individuals and Groups of all ages are welcome. FREE admission on Saturdays.