Edward Drinker Cope House

The Edward Drinker Cope House consists of two connected rowhouses with distinctive green stone facades and mansard roofs located on Pine Street. The structure features polygonal bay windows and reflects the residential design typical of wealthy 19th-century neighborhoods in Philadelphia.

Built in 1880, the house served as both home and research center for paleontologist Edward Drinker Cope until 1897. His work there contributed significantly to the advancement of vertebrate paleontology in America during the late 19th century.

The residence blended scientific work with daily living, as specimens filled nearly every room throughout the house. Visitors get a sense of how a 19th-century researcher integrated his professional pursuits directly into his personal spaces.

The site sits southwest of Rittenhouse Square in Center City and is easily walkable from nearby public transportation. As a historic landmark open to limited visitation, checking hours ahead of time helps plan your visit effectively.

The bathroom was repurposed as makeshift storage for scientific specimens during Cope's occupancy from 1880 to 1897. This unconventional use reveals how completely his research dominated his domestic environment.

Location: Pennsylvania

GPS coordinates: 39.94700,-75.17671

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:41