On this block in 1976

The African American Museum of Philadelphia, located at the northwest corner of 7th and Arch Streets, was built in 1976 in celebration of the nation's bicentennial and was designed by African American architect Theodore Cam of Philadelphia. At the time of its inception, it was the first museum in the country specifically devoted to the art, history, traditions and achievements of African Americans dating from pre-colonial times to the present. Its exhibits are organized around three dominant themes: the African Diaspora, the Philadelphia Story and the Contemporary Narrative. Before the museum stood here, the site was occupied by the Rittenhouse Building, shown in a 1959 photograph. During the 1950s and 60s, businesses selling electronic goods and services extended along Arch Street from 6th to 12th Streets, creating a bustling commercial corridor known as Radio Row.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania · United States