Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia, the nation’s first chartered hospital, opened a public museum May 8 as part of its 275th anniversary celebration and the United States’ semiquincentennial.
The hospital, part of Philadelphia-based Penn Medicine, reopened its historic Pine Building to house the museum, which features interactive exhibits, restored clinical spaces and medical artifacts spanning nearly three centuries.
According to Penn Medicine, the exhibits were curated by Stacey Peeples, Pennsylvania Hospital’s lead archivist and curator, in partnership with exhibit design consultant HealyKohler. Exhibits include the hospital’s historic apothecary, surgical amphitheater and medical library, along with interactive displays such as pharmacy “trading cards” featuring products once sold at the hospital.
Founded in 1751 by Benjamin Franklin and physician Dr. Thomas Bond, Pennsylvania Hospital has played a role in major moments throughout American medical history, including treating patients during yellow fever outbreaks, wartime conflicts and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’re this hidden gem, and we want to share our story with the world,” Pennsylvania Hospital CEO Alicia Gresham said.
Today, Pennsylvania Hospital is part of Philadelphia-based Penn Medicine and is nationally recognized for its work in orthopaedics, cardiac care, neurosurgery, obstetrics and behavioral health.
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