Advertisement showing the five-story hotel built by John L. Ridgway in 1844 at 181-183 (i.e., 517-519) Chestnut Street. Male and female guests sit under an awning on the front porch, enter the building, and stroll on the second floor balcony. Other patrons are visible, through the open windows and entrance, in the saloon and at the front desk. Curtains adorn several of the upper windows and rolled carpets are showcased in the display windows of the tenanting business of "J. & B. Orne." A couple approach the entrance of the adjacent storefront of "J. Sill & Co. Gloves. Hosiery. Cravats. Shirts. etc." at 185 (i.e., 521) Chestnut Street. Hosiery and bolts of fabric adorn the display windows of the building that also contains columns and a balcony. Also shows a dog behind the couple, a fire hydrant, and a partial view of a parked carriage and neighboring building. Charter, originally with partner C. James McClellan, served as the proprietor 1845-1848., Date from Poulson inscription on recto., Philadelphia on Stone, POS 17, Wainwright retrospective conversion project, edited., Opening of hotel described in the Philadelphia Inquirer, January 20, 1844.
Creator
Rease, W. H., artist
Date
[1848]
Location
Library Company of Philadelphia | Print Department **W16 [P.2012]