Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse

For our hours and more information about Smith, please visit us at www.smithkidsplayplace.org

As a young child, my mother took me and cousins to Smith Playground at least twice a summer. We travelled by public transportation, seemingly forever, from south Philadelphia, armed with a picnic lunch to be enjoyed later under the huge trees; or on one of the porches.
It was a magical place, with an indoor playroom equipped with "giant" blocks and other playthings. She always stressed that the Smith family had donated the grounds and the buildings; but I wish I knew more about the history.
When I saw the picture of the wooden indoor slide, my heart leapt with joy. It's just as I remembered, if somewhat enlarged by a child's memory. :)
Mother always found out about, and took us to everything within her means, and on week-ends Daddy would take us places as well: Fairmount and Pennypack Parks, the Art Museum, the Franklin Institute, trips down the Delaware River on the Wilson Line, to Riverview Beach Park, Willow Grove Park and more; but The Smith Playground was always a favorite, seventy-some years ago. :) Marie Magill