Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site • Pennsylvania

Color photo showing a large raven statue with wings outspread on a metal plinth.

Color photo of a rectangular three story brick home with rows of windows on each floor.

Color photo of the basement with brick floor, false chimney, and wooden staircase.

Color photo of the parlor in the Poe House showing illustrations of furniture on the walls.

A small red-carpeted room with faux marble table, red upholstered chairs and sofa, and red curtains.

Described as horrifying, mystifying, and brilliant, Poe’s writing has engaged readers all over the world. The six years Edgar Allan Poe lived in Philadelphia were his happiest and most productive. Yet Poe also struggled with bad luck, personal demons and his wife’s illness. In Poe’s humble home, reflect on the human spirit surmounting crushing obstacles, and celebrate Poe’s astonishing creativity.

Stand in the shadow of the raven statue in the yard.
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Edgar Allan Poe lived in Philadelphia for six years, but he resided at this home for about a year, 1843-1844.
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Is this where Poe got his inspiration for "The Black Cat?" Descend to the basement and decide for yourself.
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Wall mounted illustrations show how the room may have been furnished when Edgar Allan Poe lived in the house.
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The Reading Room at the Edgar Allan Poe National Historical Site is furnished according to Poe's satirical essay "The Philosophy of Furniture."
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Color image of a detail of a bronze bust of Edgar Allan Poe.

Learn more about the man behind the pioneering literature.

Sketch of Poe at writing desk

Edgar Allan Poe pioneered multiple genres of literature.

Color photo of an unfurnished room with a wall mural depicting a table.

Find images of Edgar Allan Poe and see photos of his home and the adjoining exhibit area.

Color engraving showing pedestrians on the sidewalk in front of a Greek revival style building.

When Poe arrived in Philadelphia, he found a city in transition, but also a city full of intellectual and recreational opportunities.

Exterior photo of the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site, a three-story brick building.

The site is located about a mile from Independence Hall. It is currently closed for a utilities improvement project.

Last updated: October 2, 2026

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Mailing Address:

c/o Independence National Historical Park
143 S. 3rd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106

Phone:

215-965-2305

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