the Broad street Arcade

 

Currently vacant land, in the early 1900s, 3625-3629 North Broad Street was the home of Broad Street Casino Theater. In 1922, the theater was purchased by new owners, who demolished it and then erected the Broad Street Arcade. Taking advantage of the fact that the parcel stretches from North Broad Street to Germantown Avenue, the Broad Street Arcade featured storefronts on both streets. The Arcade was a significant shopping destination in the thriving mid to late twentieth century Broad, Germantown, & Erie commercial corridor.

 

Neighbors recall visiting many stores in and near the Broad Street Arcade, such as the Pansy Shop, clothing shops, and the Arcade Pet Shop. They also remember the Arcade burning down, leaving the vacant lot that exists today. Memories of the Broad Street Arcade often inspire discussions about other businesses which shape the community’s past and present.