Four Philadelphia buildings receive historical protection, while one building fails to secure designation.
The Philadelphia Historic Commission recently made significant strides in preserving the city’s architectural heritage by adding four buildings to its Register of Historic Places. The commission, which convenes monthly to deliberate and vote on preservation matters, has successfully safeguarded these structures, ensuring that they cannot be demolished or altered without adhering to strict guidelines. Despite the progress made with these additions, a fifth proposed site, the Conchy-Leech Tenant House, was not included in the protection order.
Among the newly designated buildings is the Philadelphia Hospitality Center, located at 1501 John F. Kennedy Boulevard and recognized for its distinctive saucer-like design. Constructed in 1960, the building has been an iconic feature in the landscape of Love Park, enhancing the architectural diversity of the area. Its inclusion in the Philadelphia Register ensures that this unique representation of mid-20th-century architecture will be preserved for future generations.
The Providence Baptist Church of Germantown, established in 1943, has also received historic protection. Located at 87-91 E. Haines Street, this church continues to serve the historically Black community that constructed it during World War II. Their ongoing use of the building highlights its cultural and historical significance, further justifying its status on the historic register.
Another notable entry is the Second Nazareth Missionary Church at 1800 Tasker Street, built in 1887. This South Philadelphia church has witnessed the evolution of two different congregations and is currently undergoing renovations after a period of decline. By adding this site to the historic register, the commission acknowledges its importance as a site of worship and community gathering.
The fourth building, the Tacony Savings Fund Safe Deposit Title & Trust Company, established in 1893 at 4900 Longshore Avenue, showcases the Victorian-era architectural style prominent in Tacony during the late 19th century. This decision aims to reflect the rich historical context of the neighborhood and protect its architectural integrity.
In contrast, the proposed addition of the Conchy-Leech Tenant House, built in 1805 and situated at 5831 Yocum Street, was declined by the commission. This house was highlighted for its historical significance by the University City Historical Society, which argued for its preservation due to its roots in a traditionally rural area. However, the commission ultimately chose not to designate it as a protected site, thereby allowing for potential changes or demolition.
The Philadelphia Historic Commission’s decisions exemplify its ongoing commitment to recognizing and preserving the city’s historical and architectural heritage, balancing growth and modernization with the importance of historical continuity.
