Inscription: At his print shop here, Robert Bell published the first edition of Thomas Paine’s revolutionary pamphlet in January 1776. Arguing for a republican form of government under a written constitution, it played a key role in rallying American support for independence.

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Common Sense Marker

Erected in 2013 by Pennsylvania Historical &amp; Museum Commission.

Inscription. ‘In operation since 1834, Wills was the first US medical facility dedicated to the treatment of eyes and first to train residents in ophthalmology. Committed to patient care, research, and education, Wills is known worldwide for its surgical and medical innovations in eye care.’

Wills Eye Hospital historical marker

Inscription - Robert Aitken (1734-1802) - An influential revolutionary-era printer, he operated a shop on this block. In 1782, Aitken printed the nation’s first complete English Bible. It received endorsement from Congress, and was the only new Bible available to colonists due to printing restrictions and import embargoes. He also published the Journals of Congress, its official proceedings, and The Pennsylvania Magazine which introduced the writings of Thomas Paine to America.

Robert Aitken historic marker

Inscription.&nbsp;Anthony J. Drexel (1826 - 1893) Entrepreneur and philanthropist Drexel created the world's first trans-Atlantic banking network from an office first located here. It financed many U.S. railroads and businesses of the industrial era. Founder of Drexel University.

Anthony J Drexel historic marker

Inscription. Nobel laureate who identified the hepatitis B virus and developed its diagnostic test and vaccine, which he shared to promote its use. Affiliated with Fox Chase Cancer Center, NASA Astrobiology Inst., and pres. of American Philosophical Society. Blumberg lived here.

Society Hill, on Lawrence Court south of Cypress Street

Baruch S. Blumberg

Inscription. An influential American composer, lyricist, and translator who brought vernacular to musical theater was born here. Works include the ground-breaking The Cradle Will Rock and an adaptation of The Threepenny Opera. He studied at Curtis Inst. of Music and mentored Leonard Bernstein.

Marc Blitzstein historic marker

PHMC was established June 6, 1945, by state Act No. 446, merging the Pennsylvania Historical Commission (PHC), Pennsylvania State Museum and Pennsylvania State Archives.

The governmental agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania responsible for the collection, conservation and interpretation of Pennsylvania's historic heritage. The commission cares for historical manuscripts, public records, and objects of historic interest; museums; archeology; publications; historic sites and properties; historic preservation; geographic names; and the promotion of public interest in Pennsylvania history. &nbsp;

Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

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