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Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site and its collection

Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
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The Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site is a protected building situated in the Spring Garden district of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This historic site is where the renowned writer Edgar Allan Poe rented a brick house during his time in Philadelphia from 1837 to 1844. It is a significant location as it is the only surviving residence of Poe in Philadelphia.

Edgar Allan Poe's Residence and Works

Edgar Allan Poe resided in the house from 1842 to 1844. During this period, he created the character of detective C. Auguste Dupin in 'The Murders in the Rue Morgue' and wrote stories like 'The Tell-Tale Heart'. This house is therefore a significant site for understanding the context and environment in which Poe created some of his most famous works.

Visitor Center and Exhibition

The actual residence of Poe is neither restored nor furnished due to the lack of preservation of the original furnishings. However, the visitor center in the attached building, which did not exist during Poe's time, houses an exhibition on the life and work of the author. Additionally, it has two rooms furnished in the style of the time, providing a general impression of the period.

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History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Historic house Language & Literature Person & Artist

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#9 Free museums in Philadelphia #18 History & Anthropology in Philadelphia #12 Historic houses in Philadelphia #4 Language & literature museums in Philadelphia #13 Person & artist museums in Philadelphia #15 Free museums in Pennsylvania #27 History & Anthropology in Pennsylvania #19 Historic houses in Pennsylvania #4 Language & literature museums in Pennsylvania #16 Person & artist museums in Pennsylvania #25 Language & literature museums in United States #190 Person & artist museums in United States

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Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
532 N. 7th Street
PA 19123 Philadelphia
Pennsylvania

Images of Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

Visitor information Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday
9:00 – 12:00
13:00 – 17:00
Saturday
9:00 – 12:00
13:00 – 17:00
Sunday
9:00 – 12:00
13:00 – 17:00
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Admission

Normal rateFree
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Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site.

Location & Map

532 N. 7th Street, Philadelphia

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site have been found.

Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site Reviews

Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site in Philadelphia offers visitors an intimate look into the life of the famous American writer. Located in a modest brick house where Poe once lived, the museum provides a somber and atmospheric experience that aligns well with Poe's literary works.

    Visitors often appreciate the well-preserved 19th-century setting and the informative exhibits that detail Poe's life, work, and influence on literature. The site includes period furnishings and personal artifacts, giving a sense of Poe's living conditions during his time in Philadelphia.

    A highlight for many is the cellar, which is said to have inspired Poe's story "The Black Cat." The guided tours, when available, are frequently praised for their knowledgeable and engaging staff who bring Poe's story to life.

    However, some visitors note that the site is relatively small and can be explored in a short amount of time. The lack of original Poe possessions is also mentioned as a minor drawback, as most items are replicas or period pieces.

    Additionally, the sparse furnishings and minimalist approach to the exhibits may disappoint those expecting a more elaborate museum experience. Some visitors have reported that certain areas of the house can feel a bit empty or underdeveloped.

    Despite these minor criticisms, most visitors find the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site to be a worthwhile stop for literature enthusiasts and those interested in American literary history. The site successfully captures the mood of Poe's works and provides valuable context to his life and writings.

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