Philadelphia: Home of a Legendary Writer

This past October marked what would have been the Edgar Allan Poe’s 200th birthday. While you may be a few months late wishing him a happy birthday, it is never too late to appreciate the writings that came from this literary genius. One of the greatest ways to show your appreciation for the author who is known as being the father of the detective story is by visiting the house he lived in and wrote a majority of his classic stories in.
American Horror Literature fanatics will be in awe as they view rare editions of Poe’s works along with copies of his personal letters. A wall inside the home contains several letters Poe wrote for the numerous women in his life, allowing fans of Poe to see a more personal, romantic side of the estranged writer. Poe fanatics will also be able to expand their biographical knowledge of the writer as they watch a short documentary on the writer. Tour guides will also be available to answer any questions that tourist may have.
Even if you are more interested in contemporary horror literature, such as works by Stephen King, you will find a great sense of appreciation and interest in The Edgar Allan Poe House. This exhibit includes several examples of how Poe influenced King among other horror writers such as Alfred Hitchcock. Poe’s chilling writing style created a new genre of American literature that helped launch the careers of these writers.
The Edgar Allan Poe house is a national landmark that will give fans of Poe and even greater appreciation of his works. Seeing the house that Poe grew up in and wrote a majority of his classic stories, such as The Raven in is a bone-chilling experience. On your visit, you may even get lucky and run into the ghost of Poe himself.
The Edgar Allan Poe house is located on 532 North 7th Street in Philadelphia, PA. It is run by the National Park Service and the cost is free of charge. The house is opened from Wednesday-Sunday from 9am-5pm and is free of charge.