I have an architectural history question. I was told that the staircase at the Merriam Theater (now the Miller Theater) was the same staircase used in PHS's Horticultural Hall
Could that be true?
Answer
Quite possibly. PHS's Third Horticultural Hall opened its doors in 1896. Designed by Philadelphia architect Frank Miles Day, this hall was patterned after a Florentine Renaissance palace. Its interior was ornate, with a large foyer, stained glass windows, and a grand staircase to the main hall brilliantly lit by electric light. An inability to make a profit on shows or hall rentals forced PHS to sell this building in 1917. It was demolished that year. On its place and at the same address -- 250 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia -- was built the Shubert Theater, later named the Merriam Theater, and now known as the Miller Theater.
I searched PAB, the Philadelphia Architects and Buildings database created by the Philadelphia Athenaeum and photographs of the staircases of both our 3rd Horticultural Hall and those the Shubert Theater look remarkably alike, so this rumor may very well be true.
See attached PDFs of the staircases.
See this FAQ for more information on the homes of PHS.
--- answered by Janet Evans, PHS McLean Library Associate Director