While born in Boston and most often linked with Massachusetts, Maryland, and Virginia, legendary author Edgar Allan Poe actually lived in Philadelphia for six years, and published some of his most iconic works in the city, writes Leah Gillis for the Islands.
Poe also published some of his most famous and iconic works in the city, including The Fall of the House of Usher, The Murders in the Rue Morgue, and The Gold-Bug.
Poe changed residences frequently during that time, depending on his financial situation. He lived in Philadelphia from 1838 to 1844.
Today, only one of his Philadelphia homes is still standing — and fittingly, it’s the one where he wrote some of his greatest works.
The Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site is located on 7th Street, where the author spent his final two years in Philadelphia. Today, the site is operated by the National Park Service and offers free admission.
The home was occupied by Poe, his wife Virginia, his mother-in-law, Muddy, and their cat Catterina. In addition to showcasing the family’s living quarters, the historic site features an exhibit area filled with photos and multimedia. These tell the story of the famous writer and his time there, when he worked on famous classics, such as The Black Cat and The Tell-Tale Heart.
Read more about the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site in the Islands.
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