Homes lining former “Pill Alley” open to the public this Sunday

Author: Adrienne Boudreau

This Sunday, May 4, architecture lovers are invited to attend the Historic Linwood Tour of Homes presented by the Linwood Preservation District and Friends.

Ten architecturally significant properties will be open to visitors this year, many built as grand residences at the turn of the century. Interiors boast handcrafted woodwork, beautiful leaded and stained glass windows and elaborate staircases you’ve probably dreamt of but rarely see up close and personal.

Some of the homes from the former city suburb (back in the day) have been converted into smaller units but still retain their impressive beauty. According the Linwood Preservation District and Friends, the street became an extension of Franklin Street’s “Pill Alley” where doctors, dentists and lawyers ran their practices out of their homes. Certainly a street being called “Pill Alley” would have a totally different meaning in modern times.

Though not as wealthy as neighboring street Delaware Avenue, the mansions of Linwood are still large enough that you have to marvel that they were, at one point, single family residences.

Proceeds from the tour will go toward ongoing street and neighborhood beautification projects.

Several local food trucks will be in attendance to provide lunch options for those who work up an appetite.

Tickets for the tour are $20 in advance online or $25 the day of the tour. Tickets and guidebook can be picked up on the tour day at Artists Group Gallery, 1 Linwood Street at North Street.

Streetscape of History: The Historic Linwood Tour of Homes

Sun, May 4, 12:00 -5:00pm

1 Linwood Ave, $20 adv/$25 – Tickets

 *Linwood Photos courtesy of Historic Linwood Tour of Homes Facebook page