Thomas Jefferson said that Polish-born Thaddeus Kosciuszko was “as pure a son of liberty as I have ever known.” A former Polish count, Kosciuszko developed innovative military engineering that contributed to several important victories in Revolutionary War battles.

After the war, he returned to Poland, but came back several years later to collect his military payment and consult with Dr. Benjamin Rush about injuries he suffered while unsuccessfully defending his homeland against czarist Russia. During his stay he was treated as a hero and visited by local leaders, including Vice President Jefferson.

The small Georgian-style boarding home where he stayed, built 1775–1776 by Joseph Few, has been converted into a memorial and museum maintained by Independence National Historical Park. The 1st floor exhibits display his military innovations and the 2nd floor, his bedroom.

In addition to entertaining the leaders of the day, he is rumored to have entertained many a young lady here as well. A short video reveals additional details about his life, and tours are available on request.