While you may be familiar with your local branch of this store or even the big store in New York City, do not neglect to spend a few minutes here.  Located on East Market Street just across from City Hall, the former John Wanamaker Store is unquestionably the most palatial retail structure erected in the United States.  The 240 foot high exterior was constructed entirely of granite.  The marble vestibules lead to unbelievably spacious and lofty colonnaded interiors.  The highlight of the store is the marble-clad central atrium known as "The Grand Court."  Within the court is a huge bronze eagle and the world's largest operative pipe organ (28,482 pipes) that is played around midday and late afternoon.  The 2 million square foot building has now been converted mostly to offices with the lower 3 floors being retained as retail.  The store remains, however, a vivid reminder of the great age of department stores.  The building was dedicated by President Taft in 1911 and has been designated a National Historical Landmark.

Friends of the Wanamaker Organ