Details
Creator Taylor, Frank H. (Frank Hamilton), 1846-1927
Title "The Oldest House in Philadelphia"
Date ca. 1918
Description Shows the building on the corner of two narrow cobblestone streets. A horse-drawn carriage waits outside.
Notes For the accuracy of the above title the "Founders' Week Committee," charged with the duty of marking historical places within the city, made itself responsible when it so marked the ancient house hidden away within the block east from Third Street and south from Chestnut Street; to be more exact, at the southwest corner of Carter's Alley (now Ionic Street) and Exchange Place. For many years past a saloon has occupied the structure, upon the northern wall of which there is a marble Keystone bearing the date of its erection in 1692. There are external evidences that the original front faced southward, probably upon a garden space sloping downward to Dock Creek. The heavy timbering of the house is well preserved. No research among early historical works of local limitations has uncovered any credible traditions concerning its builder or those who, in the course of its two and a quarter centuries of existence, lived within its walls. Here is a tempting nut for later delvers to crack.
Taylor Catalog Number: 164
Is part of Frank H. Taylor Collection
Identifier Taylor - Case 4-5 [2717.F]