The University of the Arts’ archive is permanently housed at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.

The Historical Society of Pennsylvania (HSP) has made a significant acquisition following the closure of the University of the Arts (UArts). In an announcement made on Monday, HSP revealed that it has obtained a comprehensive collection of historic archival materials from the now-defunct university, alongside those from its predecessor institutions. This move aims to preserve a vital part of the region’s educational and cultural history.

The newly acquired collection spans an impressive 870 linear feet and comprises a diverse array of materials, including student portfolios, exhibition catalogs, graduate theses, unique publications, artworks, rare photographs, and architectural renderings. While an exact count of individual documents is not yet available, HSP estimates that the collection could potentially house nearly one million records given the volume of material transferred from UArts’s facilities.

This acquisition represents HSP’s single-largest collection to date, encompassing records that date back to 1876. The compilation is rich in historical significance, chronicling the evolution of the arts within Philadelphia over a period of more than a century. Notably, the collection incorporates materials from institutions that were amalgamated to form UArts, among them the Philadelphia Musical Academy and the Philadelphia College of Art.

The materials have begun to be processed, and preliminary access is already being granted to the public. HSP officials are optimistic about the collection’s future utility, with early requests already in place from various developers seeking architectural records. Additionally, Harvard University Museums has expressed interest, borrowing items for an upcoming exhibit.

Financial considerations for the preservation of this archives collection are substantial. HSP anticipates that cataloging, conserving, and digitizing the materials will require an investment of approximately 0,000. A grant of ,000 has been secured to initiate this process, and HSP expects to receive more grant applications from faculty, alumni, and other interested parties who may have additional materials to donate.

The fate of the University of the Arts’ archives had been in jeopardy following the institution’s abrupt closure in June 2024, which was attributed to financial difficulties and unexpected costs. The school subsequently filed for bankruptcy, prompting concerns over the potential destruction or loss of invaluable records as a result of court directives.

A court order issued in March 2025 authorized the liquidation of non-critical records, yet HSP stepped in during August 2024 to advocate for the preservation of these materials, leading to formal approval of the acquisition in September.

The highlights from the University of the Arts collection will be showcased on November 8, from noon to 4 p.m., during a special event at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, located at 1300 Locust Street. The event is designed not only to celebrate this monumental acquisition but to engage the community with the rich artistic legacy captured within these archives.