In 2019, the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections issued 941 demolition permits. This was only a slight increase over the number issued in 2018; however, it tells of a longer trend that has accompanied the city’s growth and new private development. Philadelphia’s preservationists have expressed concern about these numbers.
Preservationist Faye Anderson told WHYY that the uptick in demolitions has led to a loss of the city’s cultural heritage. Noted historic buildings demolished this year include the 19th Street Baptist church in South Philadelphia designed by architect Frank Furness, and a portion of Jewelers Row. Many more historic structures may have been torn down without the public’s awareness. “In the absence of a citywide survey of historic properties, we don’t know what they’re tearing down,” Anderson said.
Faye Anderson’s project “Disappearing Blackness” draws special attention to the loss of African American history in the city. This year, private developers demolished the former Wharton Center buildings, the site of first social services provider for African Americans in the city. Sites like the Wharton Center which have not been historically certified are particularly vulnerable to demolition.
Philadelphia’s mayor Jim Kenney launched a campaign to save more historic structures this year. However, Anderson believes that without a commitment to put the appropriate resources into preservation, the campaign will will do little to protect Philly’s history from the bulldozers.