Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore RR Station, Broad and Washington, Demolished 1940’s. President Lincoln passed through here on his way back to Washington from Gettysburg–– full story on September 10th.

The History of Philadelphia Railroads

A presentation by Bob Thomas
Wednesday, September 10, 2025 6pm

 Did you every wonder why our region’s rail system seems so haphazardly arranged?  We’ll examine how the system was formed by numerous railroad companies, how it developed and consolidated over the years, and where it’s headed.  Along the way we’ll delve into some of the related social history of the communities and industries served, and how the impact of the rail lines often continues to this day, even if unknown to most residents.

Our speaker:  Bob Thomas is a founding partner of Campbell Thomas & Co. Architects, a firm noted since 1976 for sustainable community development, affordable housing, historic preservation, energy conscious design, trails and greenways, accessible design and appropriate technology.  He has led numerous architectural, planning, greenway, solar, bicycle and green transportation projects, all of which required significant planning and programming skills to meet numerous planning goals, often in conflict. Bob worked early on as a planner for SEPTA (the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority). His knowledge and use of public transportation are invaluable in planning sites to be accessible by all people. He is often seen in remote areas with his collapsible bicycle getting on or off a train, bus, airplane or boat. Public Service: Among other boards and commissions, Bob has served over 20 years on the Philadelphia Historical Commission, 8 years as Chair. He chaired the City of Philadelphia’s Accessibility Advisory Board for 12 years. He is now co-chair of the Schuylkill River Greenways Tidal Schuylkill Committee, and is very active in promoting the Schuylkill River Trail, the September 11th National Memorial Trail, the East Coast Greenway, and the Great Schuylkill to Susquehanna Passage. 

Location: Parkway Central Free Library, 1901 Vine Street, HEIM Center Conference Room with an entrance off Wood Street at the back of the library.
The room will be open at 5:30 for members and visitors to mingle.
There is metered parking around the library building and a paid parking lot behind the library with an entrance off Callowhill Street.