Philadelphia revealed: unpacking the attic is a large, interactive display of over 600 authentic objects, telling the story of Philadelphia’s city history collection. Inspiring pride in our great city, this major exhibition reflects 350 years of Philly history.

The exhibition highlights the strengths of the Atwater Kent Collection (former Philadelphia History Museum), including material representing the Atwater Kent Museum’s earliest acquisitions, eclectic collections it absorbed, national celebrations, development of the city and civic history, Philly sports, salvaged material and relics, manufacturing and retail, and art and music.

The Collection grew over 80 years to encompass an array of Philadelphia stories: objects reflect the city’s diverse residents and their contributions over three centuries. Along with 600+ artifacts, the exhibition includes hundreds more historical images as well as multimedia and hands-on elements.

Philadelphia Revealed is an exhibition, a podcast, and a platform for anyone to add their story to Philadelphia history. Through an interactive game, facilitated by First Person Arts, visitors can find and add their own stories to the archives. They can hear other Philadelphians’ stories through The Philadelphia Revealed Podcast, produced by WHYY. Hosted by Jamie J. Brunson of First Person Arts, each episode features a new storyteller highlighting an object from the exhibition and sharing their own story inspired by it. Public programs will enable further interaction. Philadelphia history is still being told; Philadelphia Revealed aims to find out what these objects mean to all of us.