National Museum of American Jewish History

Documenting the American Jewish Experience.

Opening its doors on July 4, 1976, and situated across from Philadelphia's Independence Mall, the National Museum of American Jewish History is the only museum in the nation dedicated exclusively to collecting, preserving, and interpreting artifacts pertaining to the American Jewish experience. The Museum's collection, numbering only two score objects in its first year, has grown to more than 10,000 items acquired through donation and purchase. Items in the collection include historic documents, ritual objects, artwork, clothing, and personal memorabilia.

The Museum documents the American Jewish experience. Exhibitions created by the Museum or loaned from other museums illuminate the American-Jewish experience so that visitors can assess their own experience anew. The Museum annually attracts over 40,000 people, one third of whom are not Jewish. Visitors not only come from throughout the United States, but from around the world as well. Public programs to address issues raised by Museum exhibitions are held throughout the year.

The Museum shares its site with Congregation Mikveh Israel, which dates back to the mid-1740s, and is one of the first organized Jewish congregations in America. Mikveh Israel is known as the "Synagogue of the American Revolution."

The Museum is constructing a new 100,000-square-foot, five-story building directly on the mall. For updates on the progress, you can call 215-525-1685
Upwards of 1,000 Jews spend Christmas Day at the museum for story-telling, films, refreshments and other entertainment when otherwise they might be at home.
The museum offers a series of programs complementing each exhibition, including lectures, readings, storytelling, concerts and film series.
Location: 55 North 5th Street (half a block north of the Liberty Bell) (Map)
Opened: July 4, 1976
Architect: H2L2
New building scheduled to open: 2010
Architect of the new building: James S. Polshek
Tourism information: Mo-Th 10am-5pm; Fr 10am-3pm; Su noon-5pm. Adults $4; Seniors, Students & Children 6 & over $3; Children under 6 and museum members free. Wheelchair accessible. Exhibits are self-guiding. Gallery guides are on duty most days to answer questions or lead gallery tours at no extra cost. Groups should call in advance for personalized tours. 215-923-3811
Facilities: The museum gift shop offers a remarkable array of Judaica. Many of the items are singular pieces created by artisans and craftspeople. (Some of the pieces in the gift shop have been entered in juried art exhibitions held at the museum in prior years.) There is a multitude of magnificent mezzuzot, exquisite menorahs, stylish Seder plates, and an extraordinary choice of colorful ketubbot (Jewish marriage licenses). There is also an ample selection of books, cards, etc. Phone for the Museum Shop: 215-923-0262
Official website: www.nmajh.org

Close window

Close window