Elfreth's Alley Association Inc.

The Elfreth's Alley Association Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and protection of Elfreth's Alley, a historic residential street in Philadelphia's Old City neighborhood. The organization was founded in 1934 by local residents and preservationists.

History

Elfreth's Alley, dating back to 1703, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited residential streets in the United States. The street was initially opened as a cart path between properties owned by Arthur Wells and John Gilbert. It was later named after Jeremiah Elfreth, an 18th-century blacksmith and landowner.

In the early 20th century, the alley faced significant deterioration due to industrialization and urban decay. The heroic efforts of residents, led by Dolly Ottey, and local historians from the 1930s to the 1960s, helped preserve the alley as a typical colonial street. The Elfreth's Alley Association was instrumental in this preservation effort by raising funds and organizing events to save the historic homes.

Mission and Activities

The mission of the Elfreth's Alley Association is to preserve and protect the Elfreth's Alley historic district while interpreting the contributions of everyday Philadelphians to the American story. The association operates the Elfreth's Alley Museum, located in houses #124 and #126, which celebrates the lives of the working-class residents who lived in the alley.

The association has been successful in securing National Historic Landmark status for the alley, ensuring its protection from urban development, including the construction of Interstate 95. The organization continues to promote historical awareness through educational programs, tours, and community events.

Impact

Today, Elfreth's Alley is a thriving residential community and a major tourist attraction, receiving hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. It serves as an exceptional example of early American architecture and a testament to the enduring efforts of its residents and preservationists to maintain its integrity.

The alley remains a symbol of Philadelphia's rich history, offering insights into the lives of artisans, merchants, and laborers who shaped the city over centuries. Through its preservation work, the Elfreth's Alley Association continues to honor the heritage of this unique and historic street.