South Street West
11/20/1896 South Street-At 20th Street-Looking West
“All we saw walking up and down South Street, were the people and the shops and the churches, all mixed in and trying to survive, making space for other folk, and getting the most joy and fun from life that they could manage.”
—Philadelphia resident Dennis Sheridan describes South Street in the 50s and 60s
South Street West–the area between Broad St. and 21st St, and between South and Washington—was once a vibrant African-American commercial and entertainment district, boasting such historic sites as the Royal Theater, Mother Bethel Church and Mercy Hospital. Despite several waves of disruptive forces–including the expansion of Graduate Hospital, the proposed Crosstown Expressway, race riots, and disinvestment–South Street business and community members continue their struggle to create revitalization without gentrification.
