2.1 Historic Background
The
establishment of Powelton Village can be traced to the early 1700's. Lancaster Turnpike
was laid out in 1792 and was used to bring goods from western markets and farms to
Philadelphia for shipping elsewhere. Starting in the late 19th Century the
existing estates of major landholders were sub-divided leading to increased residential
and industrial development. In 1876, the Centennial Bank was built at the crossroads
of Lancaster and Woodland Avenues. The bank, located at the edge of Powelton Village
and adjacent to Drexel's future site, became the physical gateway between the country
and the city. Today Powelton Village, historically certified in 1986, comprises
the largest intact Victorian precinct in West Philadelphia.
The Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry was
founded by Anthony J. Drexel in 1891 as a commuter school where students were educated
in the applied arts. The main building of the Institute was built on the corner
of Chestnut and 32nd Streets around the corner from the Centennial Bank.
Over the years, Drexel expanded to the west up Lancaster Avenue and to the north
towards Powelton Avenue. In 1931 the first of several residence halls was constructed
bringing a permanent 'temporary' student population to Powelton Village. Drexel
continues to expand today, with a new residence hall currently being completed on
32nd and Arch Streets.