308 Walnut St., 215/922-1700,
www.polishamericancenter.org [1]
HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Jan.–Apr.,
Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. May–Dec.
COST: Free
This small museum in the heart of Old City honors Polish culture and heritage and celebrates the contributions of its citizens to the United States and the world.
The center was founded in February 1981 and offers a small display of memorabilia and biographical materials about famous Poles, including religious leader John Cardinal Krol, Revolutionary War heroes Thaddeus Kosciuszko [2] and Casimir Pulaski, composers Fryderyk Chopin and Ignacy Jan Paderewski, and scientists Marie Curie and Nicholas Copernicus.
There is a prominent display on Pope John Paul II. Exhibits highlight Polish traditions that immigrants brought to the states, including Pisanki (painted Easter eggs) and decorative wooden plates.
Links:
[1] http://www.polishamericancenter.org
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/philadelphia/sights/society-hill/thaddeus-kosciuszko-national-memorial