Henry O. Tanner House

The Henry O. Tanner House is a three-story brick rowhouse located at 2908 West Diamond Street in a residential neighborhood of Philadelphia. The building features a bay window with decorative bracketing below the cornice, representing the architectural style of its era.

The property was purchased in 1872 by Benjamin Tucker Tanner and served as the family home of painter Henry Ossawa Tanner until 1888. The house became historically significant as a residence connected to an influential African-American family.

This residence served as a gathering place for African-American thinkers and scholars from Philadelphia and the northeastern region during the late 1800s. The rooms reflect the intellectual life that flourished within these walls.

The house is located in a residential area with street access and public transportation options nearby. Visitors should be aware that restoration work may affect visiting conditions and accessibility at any given time.

Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander, the first African-American woman to earn a doctorate and graduate from the University of Pennsylvania Law School, was born within these walls. Her achievements underscore the household's role in shaping African-American history.

Location: Philadelphia

Inception: 1872

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

Floors above the ground: 3

Address: 2908 W Diamond St, Philadelphia, PA 19121

GPS coordinates: 39.98720,-75.18110

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:40