Physick House, Philadelphia

Physick House, Philadelphia

Physick House, located in Philadelphia, stands as a significant historical and architectural landmark. This prestigious residence, once home to Dr. Philip Syng Physick, renowned as the "Father of American Surgery," dates back to 1786. It is notable for being one of the last two freestanding 18th-century houses in the Society Hill neighborhood. The house is celebrated for its beautifully restored interiors, showcasing some of the finest Federal and Empire style furniture in Philadelphia, making it one of the country's most exquisite homes.

The influence of Napoléonic France is evident throughout the Physick House. Decorative elements include the use of a golden bee motif in the upholstery, a nod to Napoléon's favored emblem. The presence of a magenta-hued Aubusson rug reflects Bonaparte's preferred color, adding to the French aesthetic. Furthermore, Pompei-style stools are a distinctive feature, connecting the house’s period to the contemporary discovery of Pompeii's ruins.

An intriguing historical artifact within the house is an inkstand in the upstairs parlor, which is said to bear the fingerprints of Benjamin Franklin, adding a touch of American history to the residence.

Surrounding the house, the garden is a notable attraction in itself. It is laid out on three sides of the property and features a variety of plants that were common in the 19th century. Adding to its charm, the garden also houses an Etruscan sarcophagus, a natural grotto, and an ancient cannon. These elements contribute to its reputation as one of the loveliest gardens in Philadelphia.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Philadelphia. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Physick House on Map

Sight Name: Physick House
Sight Location: Philadelphia, USA (See walking tours in Philadelphia)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark

Walking Tours in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Create Your Own Walk in Philadelphia

Create Your Own Walk in Philadelphia

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Franklin Parkway Walking Tour

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Philadelphia Introduction Walking Tour

Philadelphia Introduction Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
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Rocky Movie Sites Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 6.3 Km or 3.9 Miles
University of Pennsylvania Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
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Philadelphia Old City Walking Tour

Philadelphia Old City Walking Tour

King Charles II of England owed a lot of money to Admiral Sir William Penn. He paid in 1681 by signing over lands in America to the Admiral's son, William Penn. Young William, a Quaker and a thorn in the side of the King, became landlord of present-day Pennsylvania and Delaware. William sailed up Delaware, laid out a grid, and founded Philadelphia.

The streets of the grid run east and west...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles
Benjamin Franklin's Philadelphia

Benjamin Franklin's Philadelphia

One of the most fascinating personalities in Revolutionary America, Benjamin Franklin, while still a teenager, left his Puritan family in Boston for Philadelphia to start a new life. Indeed, his life turned out to be quite remarkable. Franklin was a writer, a printer, a philosopher, a postmaster, a scientist, an inventor, a statesman, and a diplomat – the absolute purist version of the American...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles

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Philadelphia Souvenirs: 13 Unique Gift Ideas from the City of Brotherly Love

Philadelphia Souvenirs: 13 Unique Gift Ideas from the City of Brotherly Love

Looking for a great gift while visiting Philadelphia? Famous for its history, arts and culture, championship sports teams, and award-winning food and drink, Philadelphia is a top-rated shopping destination. Here, you'll find an amazing selection of items to choose from - something uniquely...