Library Company of Philadelphia
Merry Christmas from all of us at the Library Company of Philadelphia!
This circa 1880 trade card is from a series of advertisements for Gustavus A. Schwarz’s toy store, formerly located at 1006 Chestnut Street in Philadelphia. We especially love the rabbit playing a drum!
Have you had a chance to see our statue of Library Company founder, Benjamin Franklin? This circa 1791 statue was carved by Francesco Lazzarini from Carrara marble, and was originally placed in a niche over the entrance to the Library Company’s previous location on Fifth Street in 1792. It is now on permanent display in a niche in the facade of our current location: 1314 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107. Come check it out!
Library and Surgeon’s Hall, Fifth-street. 1800. Philadelphia.