The museum occupied architect John Haviland's landmark Greek Revival structure built in 1824–1826 for the Franklin Institute.

[2] The Museum operated as a city agency as part of Philadelphia's Department of Recreation.

[1] The museum was established through the efforts of Philadelphia Mayor S. Davis Wilson, Frances Wistar, president of the Philadelphia Society for the Preservation of Landmarks, and A. Atwater Kent, radio pioneer and inventor.

[2] After years of declining attendance and financial shortfalls, the museum closed its doors in 2018.

[2] Highlights from the permanent exhibitions included the boxing gloves of Joe Frazier,[8] the desk of George Washington,[9] a drinking glass owned by Benjamin Franklin,[8] and a wampum belt allegedly given to William Penn by the Lenape.