In the 175 years since its founding, The Historical Society of Pennsylvania has evolved as an institution both in stated mission and physical presence. Formed on December 2, 1824 by a small group of Philadelphia gentlemen interested in "elucidating the history of the state," the Society's interests and methods of fulfilling that initial purpose expanded continually. So too, did the size of the collections and the resulting need for room to display, preserve and use these holdings.

By selecting sections of the mission statement above, you can explore that growth, with paticular attention paid to the increasing diversity of the collections acquired and refinements of the Society's original mission to further its goal of "Preserving History's Light."

Learn more about visiting the exhibit at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.

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The Historical Society of Pennsylvania
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