Address: 104 South 5th Street
Pricing: $1 donation requested
Phone: (215) 440-3442
Hours: Thursday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (days and hours differ by season; check site)
How To Get There:
SEPTA: Take a bus line or the El down Market Street. Disembark at 5th and Market. Walk south on Market. Destination will be on your left.
PATCO (from NJ): Take PATCO westbound. Exit at 8th and Market and take the Chestnut Street exit. Walk left/east three blocks and then turn left/north onto 5th Street. Destination on right.
Parking:Park at 4th & Chestnut Ritz Garage location.
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American Philosophical Society Building and Museum
Feb 12, 2010
There is one oft-overlooked building in Independence National Historical Park: The American Philosophical Society building and museum. Perhaps it’s passed over due to the daunting nature of the name of the organization or maybe it’s because atop this building; Benjamin Franklin is in fact wielding a spear. Regardless of the reason, this isn’t a building you should miss.
The American Philosophical Society (APS) was originally a title that reflected a love and study of nature and science. The difference in terminology has led to a bit of confusion in contemporary times, but Franklin intended to methodically examine nature and considered himself and his contemporaries men of science. This Enlightenment-era philosophy is essential to understanding the birth and progression of the United States.
Today, the APS aims for a similar goal—they want to make you think. The various displays in the APS Museum range from the traditional to the bizarre, with an essential focus on the evolution and progress of modern thought. You can experience this story first-hand through the art and science displays present at the museum.
The American Philosophical Society Museum is a phenomenal and less trendy alternative to the Franklin Institute—it’s also less expensive and more geared towards abstract thinkers who use creativity rather than logic to connect with the world. The APS Museum is also a book lover’s dream, featuring historic manuscripts and old book titles.
Beyond the historical exhibition space rests the additional areas in the park. Before you rush off to view the main attractions, take a bit of time to walk around the Philosophy House and enjoy the unchanged aspects of the area. The cobblestone, for example, looks a bit different than that in other areas of the city. The cobblestone on the south side of the building is in fact original cobble—not the wider replacement cobble allowing motorists to drive without complaint or damage to their cars.
There’s something about the authenticity of this path that makes it feel more worthwhile than the re-enactments and all of the businesses and organizations founded in Franklin’s name—the man did his thinking here. Where road meets nature in this delightful side escape, you may also find some inspiration.
- by Tara M. Clapper, Philadelphia Reporter for HelloMetro
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Tara M. ClapperTara M. Clapper is a full-time freelance writer residing just outside of Philadelphia. Tara enjoys exploring traditional and historical locations in the city as well as quirky and innovative restaurants and attractions. Tara utilizes her background in academic, service-based and traditional publishing to create insider-perspective articles. Her topics of interest include travel, weddings, Irish American culture, and geek subculture.
