Here at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania (HSP), we care for more than 21 million documents. Our collections include books, letters, diaries, business records, photographs, newspapers, and large maps and graphics—like the beautiful illustration of Philadelphia’s eastern waterfront found in our newest diplay, "Make History Yours." This very rare graphic was once tattered, torn, and disintegrating. It could not be handled safely and was unusable to our researchers.  Fortunately, a few generous donors provided support to have this unique treasure professionally conserved for future generations.  

There are thousands of letters, account books, photographs, diaries, and more in HSP’s vaults that need physical repair, re-housing, arrangement, description, and digitization. HSP’s Adopt-a-Collection program is designed to connect our friends (you) with an opportunity to support the core of our mission—our collections! 

This display provides you with a glimpse of the important work that goes on behind the scenes to ensure that America’s stories—our shared history—is kept safe and accessible to anyone who wishes to experience them.