The first obstacle for immigrants to Philadelphia and other ports of entry to the fledgling United States was a quarantine station where they were inspected for diseases. A clean bill of health meant they could disembark. If, however, anyone was infected with yellow fever or small pox, he or she would be held over at Philadelphia's designated quarantine station, the Lazaretto, to either recover or die.
Most people are surprised to learn that it still stands on ten acres just south of the airport.
While utilitarian in general appearance, the Lazaretto is nevertheless a venerable building. Its size, massing, materials and a notable cupola and weathervane topping its central roof reminds us of other significant 18th-century institutional buildings, such as Pennsylvania Hospital or even the former Pennsylvania State House, now Independence Hall. The Preservation Alliance, along with Tinicum Township officials, local citizens, and a broad range of preservationists, recognize this challenge as an opportunity to mobilize resources. For the past several months, a Feasibility Committee has convened for the purpose of identifying sufficient funds to buy the property and save the building. The site's river frontage offers possibilities for docks and boat access.