Founded in 1925 on the 150th anniversary of Thaddeus Kosciuszko’s enlistment in the American revolutionary cause, the Kosciuszko Foundation is dedicated to increasing American understanding of Polish culture. The foundation’s permanent art collection, started in 1945 with a famous portrait of Kosciuszko (1746–1817), now contains works by more than 50 artists displayed for free in the gallery on a rotating basis. Public programs include music performances—primarily classical but occasionally jazz—as well as lectures and other cultural events.