This 19th-century house presents an insight into the fascinating life and revered works of the decorated American poet Walt Whitman.
Walt Whitman House attracts literature fans from around the world to experience the life of one of the most important poets of the 1800s. See examples of original artifacts and personal items displayed in the well-preserved rooms of Walt Whitman’s former home. Admire what is widely considered to be the earliest photo of the poet. Visits to Walt Whitman House are by guided tour only, led by docents from the Walt Whitman Association.
The poet moved to Camden in 1873 to live with his brother but it wasn’t until 1884 that he purchased this house. Whitman resided here until his death in 1892 at the age of 72. A common belief is that he bought the house with funds earned from the success of his controversial book, Leaves of Grass. Curiously, he asked a widow to move in with him in exchange for living expenses and a housekeeper’s salary. See the furniture she brought with her.
Inside, the house appears as it would have when Whitman lived in it. All of the exhibits are displayed without barriers. Highlights include Whitman’s original bed, his old boots and his quintessential wide-brimmed hat. Look for the death notice, which was pinned to the front door upon his passing.
Browse a collection of hand-written letters. Peruse photos of the house’s interior and exterior from the late 1800s. Don’t miss the daguerreotype photograph of Whitman taken in 1848.
The house is located just south of Downtown Camden. Use metered parking on the street outside the building. Less than a 10-minute walk to the west is Wiggins Park & Marina. Catch a ferry from Philadelphia across the Delaware River to the marina. Alternatively, take a train from Philadelphia’s Center City district to Camden’s Broadway station.
Walt Whitman House is open from Wednesday to Saturday. On Sunday it opens in the afternoon only. Admission is free, although donations are welcome. Book tours in advance. Visit the official website of the Walt Whitman Association for more information.
