La penitenciaría fue un experimento social del siglo XIX que se basó en los principios cuáqueros. La regla principal era que los prisioneros se encontrarán absolutamente recluidos para que pudieran emplear su tiempo rezando, pensando y cumpliendo penitencia. De hecho, la soledad destruyó a muchos y finalmente la superpoblación impulsó una miseria que ya no buscaba ninguna clase de reforma. Finalmente, la prisión fue clausurada en la década de 1970. El grado de infamia que se vivió en la Penitenciaría Estatal Eastern hacía que Alcatraz fuera juego de niños. Algunos de los prisioneros que moraron entre estos muros fueron el criminal Al Capone y el ladrón de bancos Willie Horton. Aunque la prisión hoy está totalmente derruida, sentirán escalofríos cuando contemplen las celdas abovedadas y la rotonda central.
The American Philosophical Society has an earned reputation of being a leader in the promotion of scholarly research, publication and library resources in the sciences and humanities for over 250 years and has played a significant role in American culture and history. The society, most famously started by Benjamin Franklin, has seen many prominent members like George Washington, Charles Darwin, Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein and Robert Frost. The building, in which the society and all its resources have been housed, is just as much part of Philadelphia's history as the society. After years of financial struggles and permit issues, the Philosophical Hall was completed in 1789 and became the site of the society's meetings, library and gallery of artifacts. Today, the historic structure is a landmark in the city, a museum and still serves as the administrative offices to the prestigious APS.
Cheltenham Center for the Arts is located in the former George K. Heller School which was the first of its kind in the township of Cheltenham and the oldest public school in the state till its closure in 1953. The Late Victorian stone structure is the ideal setting for this arts center which was founded in 1940. The Cheltenham Center for the Arts is known for its art classes, exhibitions and theater highlighting the work of local artists and the community. Its sole focus is to express social interests in a creative way through artistic mediums.
Nestled on a vast expanse of 690 acres (279 hectares), Norristown Farm Park beckons visitors with a captivating blend of history and nature. This expansive park offers an array of outdoor activities for all ages to enjoy. Hikers can traverse the winding trails, meandering through lush woodlands and tranquil meadows, while birdwatchers delight in the diverse avian species that call the park home. Picnickers find idyllic spots under the shade of majestic trees, savoring moments of serenity.