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1930s

    Above 30th Street Station and the Market Street El

    This 1939 aerial photo shows the relationship of the Market Street Bridge and the El between the U.S. Post Office (left) and 30th Street Station (right). Trolley tracks can be seen on the bridge. 

    Map of Market Street Elevated in 1934

    This 1934 Philadelphia Rapid Transit Company map shows the Market Street Elevated and Subway. The subway in West Philadelphia would not be completed until 1955. 

    Planning the Modern Research University

    In the first half of the twentieth century, two campus plans—the Cret Report of 1913 and the Martin Report of 1948—called for the creation of a pedestrian campus free of urban congestion.

    Woodside Park

    Woodside Park was an amusement park which thrilled Philadelphians with its attractions for almost 60 years.

    The Early Years of The Arena

    The Arena began as an ice rink, but quickly expanded to an arena used for events like boxing matches, rodeos, and major political events.

    Duke Ellington and his Orchestra
    Jazz at Fay’s

    Fay’s Theatre found success as a jazz club after managers expanded their target audience to reflect West Philadelphia’s changing demographics.

    Fay's Theater Sign
    Fay’s Theatre: Community Change and Community Space

    Fay’s Theatre, a small West Philadelphia entertainment venue, reflected the creation and transformation of community spaces during the Great Migration.