Academy of Natural Sciences building lacks historical protection due to no nominations for preservation.
The impending closure of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University has sparked significant concern within the Philadelphia community, especially regarding the future of its 150-year-old building, which, surprisingly, lacks historical protection. Located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, this building is notably the only historic cultural institution in the vicinity absent from the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places, as highlighted by the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia.
The academy, recognized as the country’s first natural history museum, announced plans to shut its doors at the month’s end and intends to relocate its collections while putting the building up for sale. City records indicate the property’s assessed value exceeds .7 million, and current zoning permits the development of low-rise, low-density residential structures such as townhouses or small apartment complexes.
The Philadelphia Historical Commission confirmed that the academy explored the possibility of obtaining historic designation for the building in the late 1980s but ultimately chose not to pursue it. There have been no nominations submitted for its designation as historic since then. Jeffery Young Jr., the City Councilmember for the district encompassing the academy, is now advocating for potential zoning changes aimed at protecting the historic integrity of the Parkway district, including the academy’s building.
The urgency for such measures stems from the historical context of Philadelphia’s preservation efforts, which often escalate only in response to impending redevelopment threats. A comparison was drawn with Jewelers Row, another Philadelphia landmark that faced significant changes before its historic designation was pursued.
The Preservation Alliance has expressed its commitment to researching and advocating for the nomination of the academy’s building for historic designation, arguing that it meets the criteria necessary for local historic status. This would entail a thorough process, involving reviews and public consideration by the historical commission.
The academy’s closure is attributed to financial constraints and declining attendance, but many advocates hope continued community support can preserve the museum’s legacy. Councilmembers Young and Nina Ahmad plan to introduce a resolution urging Council hearings about the closure and are organizing a rally in protest at City Hall, aiming to galvanize public support for the preservation of both the building and the academy’s enduring presence on the Parkway.
As the situation unfolds, the future of the Academy of Natural Sciences and its historic building remains uncertain, compelling stakeholders and the community alike to question what it will mean for Philadelphia’s museum mile and its cultural heritage.
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