Tula has long been famous for its craftsmen, and it is here that the harmonica craft originated. Among the well-known masters who glorified this craft were Sizov, Vorontsovs, Kiselevs, Chulkovs, Vanikins, Glagolev, Batishchev-Tulsky, and many others. Over time, traveling through various provinces, the harmonica evolved, and various types of instruments emerged, such as Saratov, Liven, Novorzhev, Elets, Nizhny Novgorod, and others.

In the museum, one can learn about the origin and development of the harmonica, starting from the miniature turtle harmonicas of the 19th century, popular among stage and circus musicians, to large concert button accordions and accordions. The museum's collection includes over 100 unique exhibits, each with its own story. Here you can see a five-row Pskov resuha, Saratov and Vologda harmonicas with bells, as well as a harmonica assembled by homeless children at the Tula factory of the Children's Commission. The exhibition also features a harmonica that accompanied its owner through the war years, and a post-war Italian accordion with two piano keyboards. Modern instruments made at the 'Tula Harmonica' factory will also pleasantly surprise visitors.

The decision to create a museum dedicated to the history of harmonica production was made in April 2015. For two years, research work was carried out, the exhibition was formed, and the collection was gathered. The museum opened in January 2018 in the cultural and historical center of Tula, in an ancient 19th-century building, not far from the Tula Kremlin.

The name of the museum is associated with the mythical character Grandfather Filimon, symbolizing a talented Russian master capable of creating both toys and harmonicas.

The main goal of the museum is to promote the harmonica and bayan, traditional Russian musical instruments. The exhibition covers not only Tula harmonicas but also instruments from other regions of Russia, as well as from Germany, Italy, and England, from the moment the harmonica appeared to the present day. The foundation of the exhibition is a private collection of over 100 exhibits reflecting the development of the harmonica from simple seven-key harmonicas and turtle harmonicas of the 19th century to complex concert bayans and accordions of the 20th century.

The museum hosts musical interactive tours featuring professional musicians, with programs designed to cater to various age groups and interests.