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American Swedish Historical Museum and its collection

American Swedish Historical Museum
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The American Swedish Historical Museum, situated in Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park in South Philadelphia, holds the distinction of being the oldest Swedish-American museum in the United States. This museum is a testament to the rich history and cultural ties between Sweden and America, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore this relationship through various exhibits and collections.

Architectural Design of the Museum

The architecture of the American Swedish Historical Museum is a blend of Swedish and American influences, designed by John Nydén, a Swedish-American from Chicago. The design is inspired by Ericsberg Castle, a 17th-century manor house in Södermanland, Sweden. The exterior arcades are modeled on those of Mount Vernon, while the copper cupola is a replica of the one on Stockholm City Hall. This fusion of architectural styles reflects the museum's mission to celebrate the shared history and culture of Sweden and America.

Permanent Galleries and Exhibits

The American Swedish Historical Museum boasts 12 permanent galleries that offer a diverse and intriguing collection that merges history and culture. Three of these galleries are dedicated to the history of the New Sweden Colony, which was established in the Delaware Valley in 1638. These exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of this significant period in Swedish-American history.

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History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Specialized & Alternative Specialized & Alternative Historic house Castle Ethnology

#47 History & Anthropology in Philadelphia #5 Ethnology museums in Philadelphia #40 Historic houses in Philadelphia #141 History & Anthropology in Pennsylvania #1 Castle in Pennsylvania #14 Ethnology museums in Pennsylvania #119 Historic houses in Pennsylvania #38 Castle in United States

#47 History & Anthropology in Philadelphia #5 Ethnology museums in Philadelphia #40 Historic houses in Philadelphia #141 History & Anthropology in Pennsylvania #1 Castle in Pennsylvania #14 Ethnology museums in Pennsylvania #119 Historic houses in Pennsylvania #38 Castle in United States
American Swedish Historical Museum
Pattison Avenue 1900
PA 19145 Philadelphia
Pennsylvania

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Visitor information American Swedish Historical Museum

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday
10:00 – 16:00
Wednesday
10:00 – 16:00
Thursday
10:00 – 16:00
Friday
10:00 – 16:00
Saturday
12:00 – 16:00
Sunday
12:00 – 16:00
More opening hours

Admission

0 – 4Free
5 – 11$5.00
Adults$15.00
Military$10.00
Seniors$10.00
Students$10.00
More ticket prices

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of American Swedish Historical Museum.

Location & Map

Pattison Avenue 1900, Philadelphia

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in American Swedish Historical Museum have been found.

American Swedish Historical Museum Reviews

American Swedish Historical Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The American Swedish Historical Museum in Philadelphia offers visitors an informative look into Swedish-American history and culture. Located in FDR Park, this small but well-organized museum houses a collection of artifacts, exhibits, and historical information that highlight the contributions of Swedish immigrants to American society.

    Visitors generally appreciate the museum's focus on Swedish-American heritage, with many finding the exhibits educational and interesting. The museum covers various aspects of Swedish-American life, including immigration stories, traditional crafts, and cultural practices. The recreated Swedish farmhouse and the ship replica are often mentioned as standout features.

    While the museum receives praise for its content, some reviewers note that it could benefit from updates to make the displays more interactive and engaging for younger visitors. The size of the museum is considered both a positive (easy to navigate) and a negative (limited scope) by different visitors.

    The staff is frequently commended for their friendliness and knowledge, adding value to the visitor experience. The museum's events, particularly during holidays, are highlighted as enjoyable and culturally enriching.

    However, some visitors find the admission price slightly high for the size of the museum. Additionally, its location in FDR Park, while picturesque, can be a bit out of the way for some tourists.

    Overall, the American Swedish Historical Museum provides a niche but valuable cultural experience, especially appealing to those with Swedish heritage or an interest in immigration history. While it may not be a top attraction for all visitors to Philadelphia, it offers a unique perspective on an often-overlooked aspect of American history.

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