Lighthouses along the Delaware, 1913
December 16, 2023
For every possible topic–even lighthouses–you can find someone who is obsessed with it.
Visions of the Schuylkill, 1884 and Now
December 16, 2023
An early idea of what the banks of the Schuylkill could be–and what they look like today.
Centre Square Water System
December 16, 2023
Three sets of rarely-seen drawings of a national engineering landmark.
An electrifying experience
December 5, 2023
A brief diversion into the fluid known as electricity
From Creek To Sewer
November 30, 2023
This post is where this website (under a couple of different names) began more than 20 years ago. The text is still the same, but I have added new maps and new high-resolution images that are worth checking out.
Native American Heritage Day
November 24, 2023
Celebrating Philadelphia before the European invasion with a beautiful map of Lenapehoking.
Aramingo Canal, Then and Now
November 15, 2023
Uncovering the history of the Aramingo Canal, aka Gunner’s Run.
State of the Schuylkill River in 1876: Sewage pollution and possible remedies
November 11, 2023
A brief but forward-thinking report on sewage pollution in the city’s drinking water supply.
Drainage and Sewerage Report, 1853
November 11, 2023
A groundbreaking report that promoted sewers in stream valleys and the adoption of combined sewers for Philadelphia.
Dealing with the city’s wastes in the mid-19th century
November 11, 2023
Excerpts from the reports of the the first chief engineer of consolidated Philadelphia.
Three reports on Philadelphia’s Sewage Treatment Project, 1911-1914
November 11, 2023
Without sewage collection and treatment, the city would be unlivable.
Northeast Philadelphia history, one page at a time: The Holmesburg Library Scrapbook Collection
November 6, 2023
These scrapbooks, first published on PhillyH2o, are now easier to read and are searchable by keyword.