Washington Square West in Philadelphia in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
On This Site
The foundation of the East Wing was laid on May 28, 1755. The cornerstone, engraved with Benjamin Franklin's words, is still visible just beyond the original entrance. The first patients were moved in on December 17, 1756.
On the first floor of the T-shaped structure was a men's ward, a consultation room, an apothecary shop, and apartments for the steward, matron, and other staff. The female ward was on the second floor. In the basement were cells for the insane, baths, kitchen, and pantry.
Patients occupied the two wards until 1971. Now completely refurbished, the East Wing houses physician offices and examining rooms, the medical library, and the History of Nursing Museum. The porch at the south end was added in 1922.
Erected by Pennsylvania Hospital Historic Walking Tour. (Marker Number 1.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Communications • Science & Medicine. A significant historical date for this entry is May 28, 1755.
Location. 39° 56.684′ N, 75° 9.315′ W. Marker is in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia County. It is in Washington Square West. Marker can be reached from South 8th Street south of Delancey Street, on the right when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 801 Pine St, Philadelphia PA 19106, United States of America. Touch for directions.
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Additional commentary.
1. Location of the Marker
Hospital staff must escort anyone photographing the grounds to ensure patient privacy. Photos were taken after clearing with the media department.
— Submitted January 16, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 2, 2023. It was originally submitted on January 16, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 43 times since then and 12 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 16, 2023, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
