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Fisher Fine Arts Library
University of Pennsylvania
34th Street, University City


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Type of Structure: Gothic-Revival building. It orignally housed the University Library and Museum.

Year(s) of Construction: Built between 1888 and 1890.

Builder: Frank Furness (Furness, Evans and Co.).

Gargoyle carver(s): .

Location: Just south of Market Street on 34th Street in University City.

Website: Fisher Fine Arts Library Website

Interesting Features: Several terracotta dragonhead gargoyles and lots of gothic ornamentation.

Personal Observations: If you are ever near the University of Pennsylvania campus then you must visit one of it's great center pieces. In the early 1980s the building was suffering from disuse, misuse and neglect. The "powers-that-be" had to decide whether to tear it down or to restore it. Thankfully, the latter choice was made.

The building was restored between 1986 and 1991. On a side note, before the restoration a few of the dragonhead gargoyles had downspouts stuck down their throats. One result of the restoration was to remove the spouts.

Today the building is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. It is the home of the Fisher Fine Arts Library and is only accessible to UoP Student. However, I understand that it may be possible to talk the guards into letting you take a peak at the reading room. I haven't tried this yet. A visit to this building is HIGHLY recommended to other hunters.

The building is also known as "The Furness Library".

Photos/Images: (all photos on this page can be "clicked on" to see larger versions)


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