MSNBC once called the Mütter Museum one of the creepiest places in the world, and it’s true that its diverse collection of medical specimens can be seen as rather eerie, if educational. Not many of the Museum’s visitors know much about the larger organization of which it is a part — The College of Physicians in Philadelphia.

The College has a long history of attempting to better public health. It’s mission is to “advance the cause of health and uphold the ideals and heritage of medicne.” Its building on 22nd street not only houses the museum, but also its comprehensive library and a lecture hall. Learn more about the College’s history and current initiatives here.

The Museum itself was started after Dr. Thomas Dent Mütter bequeathed his collection of specimens to the college in 1856. He had used this assortment of both wet and dry objects to teach medicine and surgery, and wished them to continue to inform learners after his death. Read more about Mütter’s life here.