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Start Over Place Philadelphia (Pa.) Year 1850 to 1899

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First Baptist Church of Philadelphia records, 1690-1906, 1690-1906 (inclusive)

Extent:
8 boxes
Abstract:
Notable for its early leadership in Baptist organization and evangelism, the First Baptist Church of Philadelphia was prominent both in its region and city and in the transatlantic community of Baptists. Records include annual reports, membership records, bulletins, scrapbooks, and biographies as well as records specific to the Board of Deacons, Board of Trustees, Treasurer, Pew Committee, Bible School, Board of Christian Education, and various women's and missionary groups.

Held at: American Baptist Historical Society [Contact Us]

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African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas records, 1790-2019 (inclusive)

Extent:
50.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Established in 1792 by and for persons of African descent, the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) is the first African American Episcopal Church in the United States. St. Thomas' founder and first rector was Absalom Jones (1746-1818), the first African American ordained in the Episcopal Church. The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas records, 1790-2019, consist mainly of original church records, as well as some accumulated secondary-source materials. The collection also contains photographs, audio-visual materials, printed materials, and objects.

Held at: African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas [Contact Us]

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Franklin Institute records, 1824-2016 (inclusive)

Extent:
1225.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1824, in honor of America's first scientist, Benjamin Franklin, The Franklin Institute is one of the oldest and most important science institutes in the nation. Its mission is to inspire a passion for learning about science and technology. The Franklin Institute records, 1824-2016, consist of administrative and financial records, membership materials, files from various departments and committees at The Franklin Institute, property records and materials relating to the Institute's building, photographs and audiovisual materials, publications, marketing materials, ephemera, and other materials.

Held at: The Historical and Interpretive Collections of The Franklin Institute [Contact Us]

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Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church records, 1816-2016

Extent:
50.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, located at 6th and Lombard Streets in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was established as Bethel Church in 1794 by Richard Allen (1760-1830). Allen was a former slave who purchased his freedom in 1783 and preached to African Americans in various Mid-Atlantic states until settling in Philadelphia in 1786, where he became a leader of the city's African American community. Bethel and other black Methodist congregations united in 1816 to organize the African Methodist Episcopal Church in America. Allen was appointed its first bishop and Bethel Church became Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, the mother church of the denomination. As of 2016, Mother Bethel remains a prominent and progressive congregation. Its current church building, dedicated in 1890, still sits on the land purchased by Allen in the 1790s, making it the oldest parcel of real estate in the United States continuously owned by African-Americans. The Mother Bethel...(see more)

Held at: Richard Allen Museum Archives [Contact Us]

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Saint Joseph's Preparatory School records, circa 1730-2016 (bulk 1890s-2016)

Extent:
325.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Saint Joseph's Preparatory School is a Roman Catholic high school for boys in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that was founded by Jesuit priests in 1851. It was established as a preparatory school for Saint Joseph's College (now University). The College and Preparatory School moved to Stiles Street and 17th Street in North Philadelphia in 1868. The College later moved to the Overbrook neighborhood of Philadelphia in 1927, while the Preparatory School remained at the North Philadelphia location. As of 2016, Saint Joseph's Preparatory School enrolls just under 1,000 male high school students. Many of the school's graduates have gone on to notable careers in government, business, and other areas. Saint Joseph's Preparatory School records, circa 1730-2016 (bulk 1890s-2016), consist of records and other materials from Saint Joseph's Preparatory School, records and materials relating to people associated with and the activities of the Gesu Parish, and materials documenting Jesuits, including...(see more)

Held at: Villiger Archives of St. Joseph's Preparatory School [Contact Us]

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Friends' Central School records, 1845-2016 (bulk) 1785-2016 (inclusive)

Extent:
150.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Friends' Central School is a Quaker (Religious Society of Friends), co-educational, private school for children in nursery school through 12th grade. The school was established in 1845 in Center City Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and moved to its current location on City Avenue in Wynnewood, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania in 1925. The Friends' Central School records, 1785-2016 (bulk 1845-2016), consist of administrative and financial records, enrollment records, personal papers, school publications and ephemera, photographs, scrapbooks, slides, various audiovisual materials, objects and other materials from and relating to the administration, faculty and staff, students, and alumni of Friends' Central School. The collection is arranged into seven series: I. Administration, II. Faculty and staff, III. Students, IV. Alumni, V. Publications, VI. Audiovisual materials, and VII. Objects.

Held at: Friends' Central School Archives [Contact Us]

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Laurel Hill Cemetery records, 1836-2015 (inclusive)

Extent:
525.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Founded in 1836 in what is now the East Falls neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Laurel Hill Cemetery is one of the first rural cemeteries to be established in the United States and is one of only a few cemeteries to be designated a National Historic Landmark. Numerous prominent local and national figures are interred at Laurel Hill Cemetery. The Laurel Hill Cemetery records, 1836-2015, consist of minute books, legal documents, administrative records, accounting and financial records, photographs, ephemera, prints, and other documents related to Laurel Hill Cemetery. In addition, there is a large collection of burial cards with corresponding lot books and interment records that document the sale of lots and burials at the Cemetery from 1836 to the present.

Held at: Laurel Hill Cemetery [Contact Us]

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First African Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.) records, circa 1840-2014 [bulk 1950-2014]

Extent:
20.0 linear feet
Abstract:
First African Presbyterian Church was the first African American Presbyterian congregation in the United States. It was founded in 1807 and received its charter in 1809. The Church has a history of pastors notable in African American Presbyterianism beginning with its first pastor, John Gloucester (1776-1822), who was a former slave. The First African Presbyterian Church (Philadelphia, Pa.) records, circa 1840-2014 (bulk 1950-2014), include minutes, membership materials, correspondence, financial documents, photographs, and various other administrative records of the church. There are also some secondary materials collected by church members about the church, its members, and various other organizations and topics. The highlight of the collection is a set of three 1840s ledgers: a membership listing with pew rentals, trustee records, and internment listing.

Held at: John Gloucester Memorial and Historical Society [Contact Us]

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African American Museum in Philadelphia small collections, circa 1850-2014

Extent:
45.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Founded in 1976 in celebration of the nation's Bicentennial, the African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP) is the first institution funded and built by a major municipality to preserve, interpret and exhibit the heritage of African Americans. The museum is committed to telling the story of African Americans in all its permutations: family life, the Civil Rights movement, arts and entertainment, sports, medicine, architecture, politics, religion, law, and technology. The African American Museum in Philadelphia small collections, circa 1850-2014, consist of various small accumulations (less than one linear foot) of archival materials acquired from a variety of sources at various times. The collection focuses on, but is not limited to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, touching on all aspects of African American life and culture. It features a great variety of document types, such as correspondence, minute books, ephemera, photographs, clippings, scrapbooks, film reels, and much more.

Held at: African American Museum in Philadelphia [Contact Us]

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Philadelphia Society of Free Letts records, 1894-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
40.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Philadelphia Society of Free Letts, or Filadelfijas Brivo Latvju Biedriba (BLB), is the oldest Latvian Society outside of Latvia. Established as a settlement house in 1892 by Lettlanders fleeing oppression in Tsarist Russia, over time the organization has served as a community center, advocate for Latvian independence, and research facility for promoting Latvian culture. The Philadelphia Society of Free Letts records, 1894-2014, include both records created by BLB, including administrative, financial, and membership records; as well as other materials, principally ephemera, either donated or collected from other sources.

Held at: Philadelphia Society of Free Letts [Contact Us]

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St. Peter's Episcopal Church records, 1832-2014 (bulk) 1761-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
100.0 linear feet
Abstract:
St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was established in 1758 as an off-shoot of nearby Christ Church; it became an independent entity in 1832. St. Peter's church building, which held its first service in 1761 and still hosts St. Peter's services as of 2014, was designed by well-known architects Robert Smith and William Strickland, and sculptor William Rush contributed to its interior. Many prominent Philadelphians have been associated with the church, including artist Charles Willson Peale and United States Vice President George Mifflin Dallas, both of whom are buried in its graveyard. St. Peter's Episcopal Church records, 1761-2013 (bulk 1832-2013), consist of minutes of the vestry, parish registers and records of service, accounting and financial records, deeds, blueprints, photographs, sound recordings and other records of St. Peter's Church. In addition, there are materials from parish organizations and affiliated organizations. The records in the...(see more)

Held at: St. Peter's Episcopal Church [Contact Us]

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The Associated Alumni of the Central High School of Philadelphia records, circa 1860-2014

Extent:
20.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Associated Alumni of the Central High School of Philadelphia is an association of alumni of Central High School, the second oldest continuous high school in the United States. The Associated Alumni support the various activities of the magnet school through financial donations, volunteering and maintaining a presence at events, providing networking opportunities for students, involvement with recruitment, advising student groups, and other activities. The alumni organization traces its roots to Central High School's first graduating class in 1842. The Associated Alumni of the Central High School of Philadelphia records, circa 1860-2014, consist of minutes, financial records, correspondence, scrapbooks, membership materials, publications, and other materials.

Held at: Archives of the Associated Alumni of the Central High School of Philadelphia [Contact Us]

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Philadelphia History Museum local history collection, circa 1682-2014

Extent:
150.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was founded in 1682 by William Penn. Because of its central location among the American colonies, Philadelphia became a gathering place for American revolutionaries during the Revolutionary War era and served as the temporary capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800. In the 19th century, Philadelphia became a major hub for railroad transportation and home to a variety of industries. As of 2014, Philadelphia is the largest city in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, known for its arts, culture, and parks. The Philadelphia History Museum local history collection, circa 1682-2014, consists of a wide variety of paper materials from, or relating to, the Philadelphia region from the late 17th century to the 21st century. The collection is particularly strong in visual documentation and in printed materials, although there are also a large quantity of manuscript and other written documents. An extensive number of individuals, families, businesses,...(see more)

Held at: Philadelphia History Museum [Contact Us]

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The Central High School of Philadelphia records, 1838-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
125.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Central High School of Philadelphia (Pennsylvania) is the second oldest continuously public high school in the United States, operating as a magnet school within the School District of Philadelphia. Chartered in 1836 as an all-boys school, its first building opened its doors in 1838. The school moved to its current building in 1939 and began admitting female students in 1983. The Central High School of Philadelphia records, 1838-2014, consist primarily of student records and publications, with a large number of 19th and 20th century photographs and some other materials including audiovisual materials, faculty papers, ephemera, and blueprints.

Held at: Archives of the Associated Alumni of the Central High School of Philadelphia [Contact Us]

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The Associated Alumni of the Central High School of Philadelphia subject files on the Central High School of Philadelphia, 1880-2014 (bulk) 1818-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
50.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Central High School of Philadelphia (Pennsylvania) is the second oldest continuously public high school in the United States, operating as a magnet school within the School District of Philadelphia. Chartered in 1836 as an all-boys school, its first building opened its doors in 1838. The school moved to its current building in 1939 and began admitting female students in 1983. The Associated Alumni of the Central High School of Philadelphia subject files on the Central High School of Philadelphia, 1818-2014 (bulk 1880-2014), consist of subject, class, faculty, distinguished visitors, and alumni files. A minute book of the Board of Public Education of the First School District of Pennsylvania, 1818-1823, is also available. Certain items within the files may be of particular interest including letters from famous people such as Margaret Mead, Robert Kennedy, and John Wanamaker and materials relating to former Unites States presidents.

Held at: Archives of the Associated Alumni of the Central High School of Philadelphia [Contact Us]

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Historical Society of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church subject files, 1970-2014 (bulk) 1770-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
28.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Methodism is a protestant Christian faith based in the teachings of John Wesley (1703-1791), who preached "practical divinity," emphasis on Christian living, and putting faith and love into action. The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1784 in the United States. After a series of divisions and unifications over the centuries, the modern United Methodist Church (U.S.) was formed in 1968. The Historical Society of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church subject files, 1770-2014 (bulk 1970-2014), consist of small amounts of accumulated materials relating to Methodism, particularly, but not exclusively, in the Philadelphia area. Ephemera, such as pamphlets, brochures, newsletters, and newspaper clippings, as well as photocopies, make up a large percentage of the collection, although there are also photographs, correspondence, manuscripts, and other original documents. The collection is organized alphabetically by topic within six series: I. People,...(see more)

Held at: Historical Society of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church [Contact Us]

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St. George's United Methodist Church records, 1763-2014 (inclusive)

Extent:
45.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Historic St. George's Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is known as the cradle of American Methodism. St. George's is American Methodism's oldest church building in continuous service; people called 'Methodists' have been meeting there since 1769. St. George's United Methodist Church records, 1763-2014, include vital records, administrative materials, financial documents, papers from subgroups of the church, photographs, blueprints, and various other materials.

Held at: Historical Society of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church [Contact Us]

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Pennepack Baptist Church collection, 1844-2013 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Pennepack Baptist Church, established in 1688 in what is now Northeast Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is the oldest existing Baptist church in the state. The church, also known as Lower Dublin Baptist Church, has had several notable pastors and parishioners throughout its history. The Pennepack Baptist Historical Foundation was established in 2010 to preserve the Church and promote its history. The Pennepack Baptist Church collection, 1844-2013, consists primarily of scrapbooks with photocopied and printed materials and some original documents. Additionally, the collection contains original manuscript materials such as late nineteenth and early twentieth century photographs, administrative volumes, cemetery deed certificates, and legal papers. Newspaper clippings, genealogy and other materials are also present in the collection.

Held at: Pennepack Baptist Historical Foundation [Contact Us]

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Pat Stopper collection on Northeast Philadelphia history, circa 1880-2013 (bulk 1980-2005)

Extent:
8.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Patricia Worthington Stopper (born 1928) was a local historian in Northeast Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She is involved in many Northeast Philadelphia history societies and groups and has researched and written extensively about the neighborhoods of Bustleton, Somerton, and Byberry. She has also given presentations and lectures at schools, libraries, and historical groups about Northeast Philadelphia history. The Pat Stopper collection on Northeast Philadelphia (Philadelphia, Pa.) history, circa 1880-2013 (bulk 1980-2005), consists of scrapbooks, maps, audio and video recordings, and photographs all relating to Northeast Philadelphia, especially the neighborhoods of Bustleton, Somerton, and Byberry.

Held at: Friends of Northeast Philadelphia History [Contact Us]

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John Bartram Association collection on the Bartram family, 1768-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
19.0 linear feet
Abstract:
John Bartram (1699-1777), the "Father of American Botany," created a botanic garden in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that is widely considered the first true botanic collection in North America. In 1891 the City of Philadelphia purchased his estate as a historic site, and the John Bartram Association--primarily constituted of his descendants--was established in 1893 to help with the administration and interpretation of the property. The John Bartram Association collection on the Bartram family, 1768-2012, includes various materials created by or on the subject of John Bartram (1699-1777) and his descendants. It includes some original and many copies of Bartram family documents, photographs, book research, genealogical research, and plant information.

Held at: John Bowman Bartram Special Collections Library [Contact Us]

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Fireman's Hall Museum Philadelphia Fire Department collection, 1871-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
69.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Philadelphia Fire Department traces its roots to a series of volunteer fire companies that were organized beginning in 1736. In 1871 it was established as a professional fire department and has continued to serve the city of Philadelphia. The Fireman's Hall Museum Philadelphia Fire Department collection, 1871-2012, is comprised of memoranda and publications produced by the Philadelphia Fire Department.

Held at: Fireman's Hall Museum [Contact Us]

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Germantown Historical Society family files, 1864-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
31.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Germantown, a section of northwest Philadelphia, was settled in the late 1600s. It is well known as the site of the first American anti-slavery protest, the Revolutionary War Battle of Germantown, and the seat of the National government during the yellow fever epidemic of 1793. The Germantown Historical Society family files, 1864-2012, contains research relating to prominent or long established families in Germantown. It consists primarily of research notes and copies, although there is a small amount of original primary source material in the collection.

Held at: Germantown Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Philadelphia Sketch Club records, 1860-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
54.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Philadelphia Sketch Club, founded in 1860, is America's oldest club for artists. Philadelphia Sketch Club records, 1860-2012, contains minute books, treasurer's reports, ledgers, receipts, dues books, membership applications, exhibition planning materials and catalogs, photographs, and many other records of the organization. A highlight of the collection is a box of Philadelphia Sketch Club member Christmas cards, most featuring original artwork, circa 1920-2004.

Held at: Philadelphia Sketch Club [Contact Us]

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Fireman's Hall Museum photograph and scrapbook collection, 1871-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
49.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Fireman's Hall Museum photograph and scrapbook collection, 1871-2012, is comprised of photographs and scrapbooks collected by the Museum. Most of the photographs are original, but some are reproductions. They relate to Philadelphia fires, fire companies, apparatus, and fire history.

Held at: Fireman's Hall Museum [Contact Us]

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Germantown Historical Society pamphlet boxes, circa 1875-2012

Extent:
163.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Germantown, a section of northwest Philadelphia, was settled in the late 1600s. It is well known as the site of the first American anti-slavery protest, the Revolutionary War Battle of Germantown, and the seat of the National government during the yellow fever epidemic of 1793. The Germantown Historical Society pamphlet boxes, circa 1875-2012, contain files on various topics relating to Germantown and surrounding areas.

Held at: Germantown Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Mummers Museum scrapbook and photograph album collection, 1888-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.4 linear feet
Abstract:
The tradition of mummery dates back to the late 17th century, but the parade was first sponsored by the City of Philadelphia in 1901. The Philadelphia New Years Shooters and Mummers Association administers the annual Mummers Parade in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Mummers Museum scrapbook and photograph album collection, 1888-2012, is made up of scrapbooks and photograph albums related to the Mummers Parade, Mummers clubs, individual Mummers, and the Mummers Museum. The scrapbooks are comprised of newspaper clippings, photographs, and ephemera.

Held at: Mummers Museum [Contact Us]

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Roxborough Manayunk Wissahickon Historical Society local history collection, 1838-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
15.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Roxborough and Manayunk are neighborhoods in the northwest section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, adjacent to Wissahickon Valley Park. In the 19th century the Wissahickon Creek was lined with mills and the neighborhoods were industrial and working class, but the Wissahickon was later turned into a public park and Roxborough and Manayunk underwent substantial gentrification during the latter part of the 20th century. The Roxborough Manayunk Wissahickon Historical Society local history collection, 1838-2012, consists primarily of newspaper clippings, articles, unpublished genealogies, copies of primary-source documents, and other secondary-source materials relating to local history. The collection also includes a small amount of original primary-source materials, such as receipts and invoices, correspondence, photographs, meeting minutes, and ephemera.

Held at: Roxborough Manayunk Wissahickon Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church records, 1773-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
25.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The first conference of Methodist preachers in the colonies was held in Philadelphia in 1773. The Philadelphia Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, organized in 1796, was one of the six original regional annual conferences after the Methodist Episcopal Church in America was incorporated. As of 2014, the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church covers 16 counties, ranging roughly from Philadelphia to Harrisburg. About half of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church records, 1773-2012, are printed proceedings. Other document types, including reports to the conference, correspondence, and audiovisual materials, are also included in the collection.

Held at: Historical Society of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church [Contact Us]

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East Falls Historical Society local history collection, 1897-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
11.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The East Falls Historical Society local history collection, 1897-2012, is comprised mostly of newspaper clippings with some pamphlets, invitations, and ephemera. Some files focus on individuals or families, while others cover businesses, schools, churches, community organizations, or historic sites/houses significant in the history of the East Falls section of Philadelphia.

Held at: East Falls Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Simpson Memorial United Methodist Church records, 1868-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Cambria Street Methodist Episcopal Church in the Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was founded in 1868. In 1889, the church accepted funding from the Annual Conference to build a new church building on condition that the church be renamed Simpson Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church in memory of Bishop Matthew Simpson. Simpson Memorial United Methodist Church was discontinued around 2012. The Simpson Memorial United Methodist Church records, 1868-2012, consist mainly of membership records, board minutes, Quarterly Conference minutes, and Charge Conference minutes. There are also small amounts of building-related records, ephemera, flyers, pamphlets, and a few photos. Some of the records have been microfilmed.

Held at: Historical Society of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church [Contact Us]

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Chestnut Hill Historical Society local history collection, 1900-2011 (bulk) 1755-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
18.8 linear feet
Abstract:
Chestnut Hill, in northwest Philadelphia, was a village of farmers and millers during the Colonial period. After the railroad reached the area in 1854, Chestnut Hill became a popular spot for Philadelphia's wealthy and it soon boasted magnificent estates designed by Frank Furness, T.P. Chandler, and Horace Trumbauer. The Chestnut Hill Historical Society local history collection, 1755-2011 (bulk 1900-2011) consists primarily of newspaper clippings and other printed materials, such as pamphlets, publications, and ephemera, relating to the Chestnut Hill neighborhood. There are some original records of local organizations, such as minute books and ledgers, as well as some family papers.

Held at: Chestnut Hill Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Bruce Conner collection on Philadelphia history, circa 1840-2011

Extent:
7.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Bruce M. Conner (1951-2011) was a local historian and resident of Northeast Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. An avid supporter of preserving the history and historic buildings of the Northeast Philadelphia neighborhoods, he was actively involved in many Northeast history organizations and established the Friends of Lower Dublin Academy in 2008. The Bruce Conner collection on Philadelphia history, circa 1840-2011, consists of 19th and 20th century manuscripts collected by Conner as well as secondary-source research materials and papers by Conner on Northeast Philadelphia history.

Held at: Friends of Northeast Philadelphia History [Contact Us]

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Grand Army of the Republic Museum and Library photograph collection, circa 1850-2011

Extent:
3.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Grand Army of the Republic Museum and Library photograph collection, circa 1850-2011, depicts a wide range of subjects relating to Civil War history. There are photographs from the Civil War era, later photographs of Grand Army of the Republic posts and Sons of Union Veterans camps, and recent photographs of historic sites, and historical reenactments.

Held at: Grand Army of the Republic Civil War Museum and Library [Contact Us]

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Awbury Arboretum Association Cope family collection, 1791-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.3 linear feet
Abstract:
Henry Cope purchased 40 acres of land in East Germantown, Pennsylvania in 1852 where he built a home for his growing family. Over the next 70 years, his descendants build 24 houses representing a variety of architectural styles. A portion of this land, now known as the Awbury Arboretum, was left to the City Parks Association in 1916 to protect it from development. The Awbury Arboretum Association Cope family collection, 1791-2011, encompasses several small collections donated by various descendants of the Cope family. It includes correspondence, deeds, financial records, journals, and photographs.

Held at: Awbury Arboretum [Contact Us]

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Philadelphia Cricket Club Collection, 1935-2011 (bulk) 1858-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
22.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Founded in 1854, the Philadelphia Cricket Club is one of the oldest clubs in the country devoted to sport. The club was nomadic until 1883, when benefactor Henry H. Houston gave them a permanent home in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Philadelphia Cricket Club Collection, 1858-2011, includes financial and administrative records of the club, as well as publications and ephemera, photographs, and newspaper clippings.

Held at: Chestnut Hill Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Chestnut Hill Historical Society map and atlas collection, 1849-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
5.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Chestnut Hill, in northwest Philadelphia, was a village of farmers and millers during the Colonial period. After the railroad reached the area in 1854, Chestnut Hill became a popular spot for Philadelphia's wealthy and it soon boasted magnificent estates designed by Frank Furness, T.P. Chandler, and Horace Trumbauer. The Chestnut Hill Historical Society map and atlas collection, 1849-2011, consists of loose maps and separated atlas plates centering on Chestnut Hill and Mount Airy, as well as about one dozen atlases of Philadelphia.

Held at: Chestnut Hill Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Grand Army of the Republic Museum and Library subject files, 1975-2011 (bulk) 1865-2011 bulk, 1975-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
21.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Grand Army of the Republic Museum and Library subject files, 1865-2011 (bulk 1975-2011), focus around topics relating to the Civil War and its legacy. The bulk of the collection is made up of photocopies, copies of secondary histories, and printed ephemera, although there are some original, unique documents.

Held at: Grand Army of the Republic Civil War Museum and Library [Contact Us]

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Congregation Mikveh Israel records, 1765-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
120.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Congregation Mikveh Israel, known as the "Synagogue of the American Revolution," is the oldest formal Jewish congregation in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and the oldest continuous synagogue in the United States, tracing its origins to a communal cemetery established for the Jews in Philadelphia in 1740. Following the Sephardic tradition, Mikveh Israel has counted among its members many prominent individuals who have contributed to the development of Jewish life in Philadelphia and the United States. The Congregation Mikveh Israel records, 1765-2011, include a large quantity of membership and vital records, and extensive papers from several former religious leaders (hazanim) and synagogue presidents (parnassim). Additionally, there are administrative and financial records, property-related materials, photographs, publications and ephemera, and documentation of various congregational committees and activities. There are some materials from several people and organizations associated...(see more)

Held at: Mikveh Israel Archives [Contact Us]

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Awbury Arboretum Association records, 1868-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
24.3 linear feet
Abstract:
Henry Cope purchased 40 acres of land in East Germantown, Pennsylvania in 1852 where he built a home for his growing family. Over the next 70 years, his descendants build 24 houses representing a variety of architectural styles. A portion of this land, now known as the Awbury Arboretum, was left to the City Parks Association in 1916 to protect it from development. The Awbury Arboretum Association records, 1868-2011, includes administrative records, financial records, and research compiled by Awbury Arboretum staff. There are also a large number of transcribed oral histories included in this collection.

Held at: Awbury Arboretum [Contact Us]

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Awbury Arboretum Association photograph collection, circa 1860-2011

Extent:
23.4 linear feet
Abstract:
Henry Cope purchased 40 acres of land in East Germantown, Pennsylvania in 1852 where he built a home for his growing family. Over the next 70 years, his descendants build 24 houses representing a variety of architectural styles. A portion of this land, now known as the Awbury Arboretum, was left to the City Parks Association in 1916 to protect it from development. The Awbury Arboretum Association photograph collection, circa 1860-2011, includes family photographs and Awbury Arboretum Association photographs.

Held at: Awbury Arboretum [Contact Us]

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Chestnut Hill Historical Society photograph collection, circa 1850-2011

Extent:
30.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Chestnut Hill, in northwest Philadelphia, was a village of farmers and millers during the Colonial period. After the railroad reached the area in 1854, Chestnut Hill became a popular spot for Philadelphia's wealthy and it soon boasted magnificent estates designed by Frank Furness, T.P. Chandler, and Horace Trumbauer. The Chestnut Hill Historical Society photograph collection, circa 1850-2011, consists of two series: subject-related and family/organization photographs.

Held at: Chestnut Hill Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Chestnut Hill Historical Society Wissahickon collection, 1970-2011 (bulk) 1760-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
26.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The 1,800 acres of Wissahickon Valley Park are part of Philadelphia's 9,200-acre Fairmount Park, one of the largest city parks in the world. The Chestnut Hill Historical Society Wissahickon collection, 1760-2011 (bulk 1970-2011) consists of ephemera, memorabilia and records relating to the Wissahickon, created by various sources and collected by the Historical Society. There are newspaper and magazine clippings, scholarly research and governmental reports, prints and photographs, slides, music CDs, and VHS tapes. A large collection of stereoviews of the Wissahickon is a highlight of the collection.

Held at: Chestnut Hill Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Naomi Wood Trust records, 1926-2011 (bulk) 1737-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
8.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Woodford Mansion, once an elegant summer retreat located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is now a National Historic Landmark and museum. The mansion is furnished with 18th- and early 19th-century antiques left by Naomi Wood, a Philadelphia-born antiques collector. Woodford is owned by Philadelphia Parks & Recreation but operated by the Naomi Wood Trust. The bulk of the Naomi Wood Trust records, 1737-2011, is comprised of photographs and records of the antique furnishings provided by the trust. There are also architectural drawings relating to the building and grounds, correspondence of the trustees, and a small amount of Naomi Wood family papers.

Held at: Woodford Mansion [Contact Us]

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Reference collection, 1874-2000 (bulk) 1690-2010 (inclusive)

Extent:
86.0 linear feet
Abstract:
In the early part of the nineteenth century, Philadelphia City Council took action to protect the purity of public water. This involved the acquisition of property on the banks of the Schuylkill River in order to eliminate polluting waste that had previously been generated by various industrial sites along the river. The City’s newly acquired property was dedicated to the health and enjoyment of the citizens of Philadelphia, and became known as Fairmount Park. The Fairmount Park Commission (FPC) was established by Act of the Assembly, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, March 26, 1867. Over the course of this organization’s history (1867 to 2010) the FPC continued to acquire land for the people of Philadelphia, and operated with a single continuous mission: to preserve and protect its open space; provide opportunities for recreation; maintain the landscapes and structures, streams and woodlands that exist within the Fairmount Park System. This collection contains various materials that...(see more)

Held at: Fairmount Park Historic Resource Archives [Contact Us]

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Union League archives, 1833-2010 (inclusive)

Extent:
1643.0 items
Abstract:
Founded in 1862 as a patriotic society to support the Union and the policies of President Abraham Lincoln, the Union League of Philadelphia laid the philosophical foundation of other Union Leagues across a nation torn by Civil War. From its founding to the present, the League has been a leading civic organization and has played an important role in the history of our country and the City of Philadelphia. Over the past 150 years, this service has ranged from raising troops during the Civil War and lobbying for enforcement of the “freedom” amendments during Reconstruction, to feeding the hungry during the Great Depression, to finding jobs for returning veterans after World War II. The Union League archives houses a wide variety of records related to the general administration of the Union League, its mission, building and history. Additionally, researchers will find a small sampling of papers more generally related to the Civil War, including some letters written by Abraham Lincoln....(see more)

Held at: Union League of Philadelphia [Contact Us]

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Chestnut Hill Historical Society architectural drawings, land deeds, and titles, 1802-2010 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.4 linear feet
Abstract:
Chestnut Hill, in northwest Philadelphia, was a village of farmers and millers during the Colonial period. After the railroad reached the area in 1854, Chestnut Hill became a popular spot for Philadelphia's wealthy and it soon boasted magnificent estates designed by Frank Furness, T.P. Chandler, and Horace Trumbauer. Chestnut Hill Historical Society architectural drawings, land deeds, and titles, 1802-2010, consists of landscape drawings, blueprints of houses, and surveys of properties in Chestnut Hill (1927 to 2010), as well as land deeds and titles (1802-1955).

Held at: Chestnut Hill Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Lippincott Family Papers, 1752-2010 (inclusive)

Extent:
6 linear ft. (9 boxes, 2 oversize folders, and photographs)
Abstract:
Horace Mather Lippincott (1877-1967) was a Quaker editor and historian. The collection contains his speeches and writings on topics primarily concerning the Society of Friends and the history of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Of particular interest is the scrapbook he compiled in 1946 of papers and photographs of the 1913-1914 Joint Group which met weekly to study the Separation in the Society of Friends, along with other papers on the topic and on the first joint meeting of the two Philadelphia Yearly Meetings in 1946. The collection includes genealogical research by Horace Mather Lippincott and his brother George E. Lippincott, deeds, and some family papers.

Held at: Friends Historical Library of Swarthmore College [Contact Us]

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Mummers Museum photograph collection, circa 1899-2010

Extent:
21.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The tradition of mummery dates back to the late 17th century, but the parade was first sponsored by the City of Philadelphia in 1901. The Philadelphia New Years Shooters and Mummers Association administers the annual Mummers Parade in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Mummers Museum photograph collection, circa 1899-2010, is comprised of photographs and slides of the Mummers Parade, Mummers, and associated individuals.

Held at: Mummers Museum [Contact Us]

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