Historic Site Directory

Historic Site Directory. . , Pennsylvania Hospital was founded in 1751 by Dr. Thomas Bond and Benjamin Franklin. The question of a proper site for Colonial America's first hospital was a matter of great concern to the Managers who finally settled upon the square bounded by Eighth, Ninth, Spruce and Pine Streets. The major portion of the block was purchased in 1754 with the remainder secured through a grant from the Penn family several years later. Because the need for a "small provincial hospital" was considered so vital, a private house on High (Market) Street, near the southwest corner of 5th Street, was rented to serve as the first Hospital while site selection and construction were progressing. It was occupied until 1756 when the new structure opened to receive patients. Then in the country, some four or five city blocks from the edge of town, the Hospital could be reached only over unpaved streets. It was not until the end of the century that homes and other buildings began to appear nearby., Visitors are invited to tour this historical landmark by following the designated markers identified on this directory. Inside the Hospital buildings are many historical exhibits, also open to the public.