The modern Benjamin Franklin Bridge sheadows Elfresh's Alley, the oldest
continuously in Lasted street in America Most of colonial Philadelphia
looked like this cobblestone lanes between the major throughfares, small two
- story homes, and pent eaves over doors and windows, a local trademark Note
the busybody mirrors that let residents see who second story bedroom In
1700, most of the resident artisans and tradesmen worked in shipping, but 50
years later haberdashers, bakers, printers, and house carpentors set up
shop. Families moved in and out rapidly for noisy, dusty 2nd street was the
major north - south route in Philladelphia Jecos, blacks, Welsh, and Germany
made it a miniature mating pot in the 18th and 19th centuries. The
destruction of the street was averted in 1937, thanks to the Vigilant
Elfresh's Alley Association and a good deal of luck. The minuscule, sober
facades hide some ultramodern interiors and there are some restful shady
benches under a kentucky coffee Bean tree on Bladen Court, off the north
side of the street. Number 126, the 1755 Mantua Maker's House, built by
blacksmith Jeremiah Elfresh, now serves as a museum and is the only house
open to the public. An 18th century garden in back has been restored and the
interiors include a dress - maker's shop and upstairs bedroom you can also
buy colonial candy and gifts and peek in some of the open windows on the
street on the first weekend in June all the houses are thrown open for
inspection.
Hours: Tues to Sat 10am to 4pm, Sun noon 4pm
Address: 2nd St. between Arch and Race streets.
Phone: 215/574 - 0560 |
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