Wood Street Steps Philadelphia

Walk in the past

Jeff from Philadelphia

"The "Wood Street Steps" are the last remaining artifacts that were commissioned by William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania & Philadelphia in the 1660s..."

You probably scanned the picture attached to this story and wondered what could be interesting about some stone steps? These granite stairs are the last remaining artifacts that were commissioned by William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia back in the late 1600s. The steps are located close to the Benjamin Franklin Bridge near the Delaware river.

The story has it that Penn had these steps and 10 others like them (these are the last that remain) built so that the general public would have access to the Delaware. He was concerned that the riverfront private landowners would not allow locals to cross their properties. These stairs gave the public 11 points of entry to the Delaware River. The steps were built possibly as early as 1702, making them one of the oldest remaining relics in Philadelphia. Luckily, residents petitioned to have them added to the City’s register of Historic Places, preserving the steps for future generations.

Now the early 1700s may not seem as romantic as the European ruins that date back to the B.C. era, but if you want to see one of oldest items that remain in all of Philadelphia, check out the Wood Street Steps.

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Philadelphia Spotter Jeff

About me Currently, my work is selling corporate and sports team promotional merchandise. I have also worked as a newspaper reporter and have always had a passion for writing. My wife and I love to travel, in fact planning a trip is nirvana for me. No interest in planned tours or cruises; I love wandering through a new city and stumbling upon interesting places on my own. While our kids were growing up, we tended to travel in the US, but now that they are out of the house, we have finally made it to Europe! In the States, I love to travel anywhere with a beach, especially ...

About this spot

North Water Street 324

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no-price

Oct 4, 2025

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