Independence Seaport Museum, Philadelphia

The Independence Seaport Museum, set up in 1960 by J. Welles Henderson and initially known as the Philadelphia Maritime Museum, started welcoming visitors in 1961. Before this, despite Philadelphia's significant maritime history dating back to William Penn's time, there was no specific museum for this theme. Henderson aimed for the museum to gather, exhibit, conserve, and explore Philadelphia port's maritime past and growth for educational and scientific reasons.

As the museum grew in popularity, membership, and educational offerings, it needed more space. In December 1974, it moved to a larger location on Chestnut Street. In 1979, it became the sixth Philadelphia museum to get accredited by the American Association of Museums (now known as the American Alliance of Museums). In 1995, it relocated to its current spot at Penn’s Landing along the Delaware River and took on its current name, Independence Seaport Museum.

Over time, the museum has collected many artifacts and artworks supporting its mission. Its collection now includes over 10,000 items and a million documents, along with historical vessels like the Cruiser Olympia and the Submarine Becuna from World War II. Other notable items include Benjamin Franklin’s Gulf Stream chart, Admiral Howe’s signal book from 1777, Captain Vernon Gridley’s sea chest from the Battle of Manila Bay, and the first-class passenger list from the Titanic.

The museum also houses the Seaport Boat Shop, opened in 1981. This facility focuses on the skills and traditions of wooden boat building and sailing in the Delaware Valley and New Jersey shore, teaching visitors about boat construction and operation.

Since 2021, under Peter S. Seibert’s leadership, the museum has narrowed its focus from a broad maritime perspective to specifically highlight the Delaware River, its community, environment, and global connections. This shift is evident in its collections, exhibitions, and programs.