The Alley - The Homes - The People
The sum of Elfreth’s Alley equals far more than its parts. Historic brick and old wooden window sashes are what catch the eye of thousands each year as they come down the cobbled alley, but the stories of the residents that have lived in these homes are what make the street special. Families celebrating in their homes, children playing in the street, and the struggles of everyday Philadelphians are where most people can relate to this historic street. Working-class people living in Philadelphia rowhomes for over 300 years is the story we look forward to sharing with you.
Bladen’s Court - early 1900s
Notice the pump in the foreground and the lack of a solid brick wall in the background.
Entrance to Elfreth’s Alley from 2nd Street by way of “Flagpole Park”. Note the National Products logo on the sign. c. 1989
Original house numbers on alley, 1785 Directory, Elfreth’s Alley residents listed with trades.
University of Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Student Project - 1989
Visit the garden exhibit virtually and learn about the alley’s Irish immigrants.
