A map of Philadelphia by Benjamin Easburn, Surveyor General, and published by Andrew Drury, London (1776).In comparison to old cities of Europe, Philadelphia was laid out in orderly blocks. Beginning on the Delaware River, the streets were numbered consecutively (running east to west). And the main street running straight west was Market Street, with parallel streets named after trees (Chestnut, Walnut, Spruce, Pine,Mulberry, Cherry, Sasafras, and Vine ). In the inset (upper left) is an important view of the water approach to Philadelphia via the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. Note the many islands and narrow ship channel. Delaware River pilots who were loyal to the king advised the Howe Brothers not to approach Philadelphia directly up the Delaware because the Americans could have strong land-based defenses. As a result, the British fleet went around the Virginia Capes and up the Chesapeake Bay, thus adding precious weeks to the invading voyage.
Library of Congress
