Welcome Park

Historical Significance

Welcome Park is a small urban park located in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Situated at the corner of 2nd and Sansom Streets, the park occupies the site of William Penn's former residence known as the Slate Roof House.

The park was created in 1982 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Pennsylvania's founding by William Penn. It was designed by the architectural firm Venturi, Rauch and Scott Brown as an open-air museum dedicated to Penn's life and contributions.

Park Features

The centerpiece of Welcome Park is a marble ground map depicting Penn's original grid plan for Philadelphia. In the middle stands a miniature bronze statue of William Penn, modeled after the larger statue atop Philadelphia City Hall.

The park is enclosed by walls featuring engravings that provide a chronological narrative of Penn's life and accomplishments.

Historical Connection

Named after Penn's ship "Welcome" which brought him to America, the park serves as an educational space where visitors can learn about the early history of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania.

While small in size, Welcome Park offers a unique historical perspective in the heart of Philadelphia's historic district.