The Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site in Philadelphia will close for essential upgrades to its fire detection and suppression system.
Construction is set to begin on July 8th and will continue until the fall of 2024.
During this period, the site, which consists of two adjoining townhomes on North Seventh Street, will be closed to the public.
As reported by the National Park Service, the project includes replacing the existing fire detection system and installing a new fire suppression system throughout the complex.
The design, created by John G. Waite Associates in 2018, and the construction contract, awarded to LMG Property Group, Inc.
last December, are funded through Repair and Rehabilitation discretionary funding for Deferred Maintenance, totaling $931,230.00.
The Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as a National Historic Landmark, requires these upgrades to enhance safety and preservation.
The National Park Service conducted an environmental review in compliance with the National Environmental Protection Act, concluding there would be no adverse impact.
The upgrades align with the National Park Service’s mission to protect and preserve historic sites.
This site, where Edgar Allan Poe lived with his wife and aunt, holds particular historical significance.
Poe moved to Philadelphia in 1838 and resided in several homes over six years.
This house is the only one still standing and is where he wrote many of his famous works.
Edgar Allan Poe’s time in Philadelphia is often regarded as his most productive period.
Here, he published some of his best-known works, including “The Murders in The Rue Morgue,” “The Mask of the Red Death,” “The Pit and the Pendulum,” “The Tell-Tale Heart,” and “The Black Cat.” Despite his literary success, Poe faced financial difficulties and lived in five different homes during his stay in Philadelphia.
This historic site is the only remaining residence from his time in the city.
Poe’s personal life during his stay in Philadelphia was marred by his wife Virginia’s illness.
She suffered from tuberculosis and passed away in New York City at the age of 24.
The National Park Service decided to leave the home unfurnished, reflecting the Poe family’s financial struggles and lack of possessions.
