Mar 29, 2024  
2018-2019 University Catalog 
    
2018-2019 University Catalog [Archived Catalogue]

PRES 608 Philadelphia History Through Architecture

College of Critical & Professional Studies

3 credits 42.0 hours
600 level graduate course

In this course, architecture is a means to understand Philadelphia’s history from colonial town to industrial powerhouse, into today’s major American urban center. By examining Philadelphia’s built environment from the earliest buildings along the Delaware River to the present makeover of the Center City skyline, an overview of the city’s past is discovered in a visual form that engages teachers and students. Many important architectural styles, buildings, movements and architects are discussed, including the vernacular style evidenced in the Philadelphia row house, buildings of national significance such as the Fairmount Water Works and Eastern State Penitentiary, the redevelopment of Society Hill and Old City in the 20th century, and the importance of parks in Philadelphia’s landscape. Study the contributions of recognized Philadelphia architects such as John Haviland, William Strickland, Frank Furness and Louis Kahn. In addition to lectures, visits sites including Gloria Dei (Old Swede’s Church), Christ Church, the Fairmount Water Works, Eastern State Penitentiary, the Philadelphia Saving Fund Society (PSFS) building and the Athenaeum of Philadelphia-the repository for the history of Philadelphia’s buildings and architects in the region. Through lectures, site visits and walking tours, participants become familiar with Philadelphia history as well as the cultural and sociological significance of works viewed. This course is appropriate for to K-12 teachers in all subject areas. Course content, in addition to exposure to primary source materials, assist teachers in developing engaging classroom experiences that meet academic standards related to historical analysis, sociology, visual literacy and more.

This course is not repeatable for credit.
This course may not be audited.
This course cannot be taken pass/fail.