Monthly Archives: March 2013

Elfreth’s Alley, Philadelphia, 1736

This is one of the oldest extant blocks of housing still in use in America. Yes, all these homes – tiny as they are – are still inhabited. It is great to get a glimpse of real history still in use. I can imagine perhaps Benjamin Franklin walking through this block on his way to a meeting or supper with friends.

Rodin Museum, Philadelphia

So, way back when, a Philadelphia philanthropist had a crazy passion for Auguste Rodin, the famous French sculptor. He created this museum to feature original castings and carvings, as well as excellent copies of some of Rodin’s best known works. Many of the bronze castings were made after Rodin’s death from molds of the originals. No photograph can do justice to the huge “Gates of Hell” sculpture, which includes some 200 figures in every conceivable pose. It is about 20 feet high, and outstanding in every way. This is a nice first stop on the East Coast Art Tour.