In 1798, William Birch and his son Thomas began a large series of engravings of Philadelphia to be published in a volume entitled, The City of Philadelphia, in the State of Pennsylvania North America; as it appeared in the Year 1800. During the next two years, twenty-eight views were completed that were so wonderfully executed, that they eclipsed in importance and aesthetic beauty all subsequent views of Philadelphia. They provide a systematic delineation of an eighteenth century American city that is unique in the history of printmaking.

Birch, an English immigrant, was enthusiastic about the activity and growth of his adopted city. His conception was to portray all the major structures and landmarks in Philadelphia. However, his approach was not to simply depict architectural subjects, but to portray the personality and vitality of Philadelphia life as well.

The result of Birch’s efforts was the most sumptuous volume produced in America during the early nineteenth century. It is the first series of views of an American city and the first colorplate book published in America. Since the time of its publication, the book has been highly cherished and sought after. It could be found in the libraries of Thomas Jefferson, Gilbert Stuart, Thomas Mifflin and William Hamilton.