Books and Manuscripts

Hill, John William, and Benjamin Franklin Smith
Philadelphia, from Camden, 1850
(New York): Published by Smith Brothers & Co., 1850. Tinted lithographic print, by John William Hill and Benjamin Franklin Smith. Printed by Sarony, New York. 29 7/8 x 44 7/8 (759 x 1140 mm). Mounted to board; abrasions along margins from now removed mat; 10-in. closed tear in upper right edge, 9 1/2 in. closed tear in lower edge of same, each extending into image; wear and small loss in center left edge; two closed tears in top left edge, extending into image; other scattered closed tears, wear, and repairs along edges, sheet evenly toned. Reps 3578

A scarce large-format panoramic view of Philadelphia during the height of the Industrial Revolution. A scene of bustling energy, the view looks west from Camden, New Jersey across the Delaware River. In the foreground can be seen the line of piers of Market Street ferry house, docked with ships and steamboats, and with workers on foot and horse-drawn carriages loading various goods. The Delaware River is seen thronged with ships, highlighting Philadelphia's role as a center of commerce and trade. In the middle ground, Windmill Island is shown, only recently dredged to create a channel for the passage of ferries from Camden. The city's dynamic waterfront and urban landscape is shown, with landmarks such as Independence Hall, Christ's Church, Girard College, the Navy Yard, Spark's Shot Tower, among others. In the far background can be seen the Schuylkill River, and further out into West Philadelphia and undeveloped country.