Overview of The Grundy Foundation

Joseph R. Grundy (1863 – 1961) was a businessman who created wealth in a number of enterprises such as textiles, banking, newspapers, and real estate. He was active in the civic affairs of Bucks County and Pennsylvania, having represented the Commonwealth in the U.S. Senate by appointment in 1929 – 1930, and also played a role in national electoral politics, but his heart always remained true to the Bristol Borough community in which he lived.

Upon the Senator’s death in 1961, his Last Will & Testament established The Grundy Foundation to create and oversee the Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Museum and the Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library.  Both the Museum and Library were named in honor of his pre-deceased sister, “Meta.” In addition to the operation of the Museum and Library, The Foundation continues to carry out the Senator’s philanthropic tradition of giving back to his community through grant awards to deserving nonprofit organizations.

The Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Museum

The Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Museum opened in 1967 and serves as the only historic house museum in the Borough of Bristol. The Grundy family home—a Queen Anne style late-Victorian era residence—represents the décor and decorum of this important period of American history. The Museum staff offer free guided as well as programs and events.  Visitors to the 1885 house learn about the Grundy family history and have an opportunity to view Grundy family furnishings, household items, clothing, and ephemera, which are all exhibited in this exquisitely restored Victorian mansion.

The Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library

The Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library opened in 1966 and serves as the public library for Bristol Borough and the surrounding community. This bustling community center is an ideal place for families, researchers, job seekers, and visitors to work, play, and explore. Unique to the Library is its Non-Profit Resource Center and Archive of documents and photographs from Bristol’s history as well as the Borough’s Municipal records. Open six days a week, the Library provides spaces for quiet contemplation, group meetings, leisure reading, listening and viewing. Additionally, the Library offers a broad range of technologies, free wireless access and fun, informative, free programming for all ages - babies, preschoolers, children, teens, adults, and seniors.