Behind The Curtain. A look at Philadelphia’s Unique Polling Stations Photographs by Ryan Donnell
Residential Basement (owner deceased), South Philadelphia.
When most Americans think about a polling place, a high school gym or a local church springs to mind.
Not in Philadelphia. In this old East Coast city, governed by ward politics and old Democratic party machinery, polling places are tucked away in unexpected locations — like private homes, bars and auto repair shops. Even on an Election Day fraught with change, these voting spots remained untouched. Here’s a look at where Philadelphia voted on Nov. 4, 2008.
Wallpaper Store, Bella Vista
Auto Repair Shop, Southwest Philadelphia.
Vietnamese Restaurant, South Philadelphia
Wallpaper Store, Bella Vista
Auto Repair Shop, Southwest Philadelphia.
LUKE’S Bar, Fishtown
Barber Shop, Pennsport.
Rollerskating Rink, Southwest Philadelphia.
Center: Mosque (prayer rugs covered), Northeast Philadelphia. Surrounding: Italian Social Club. South Philadelphia.
Residential Garage, Northeast Philadelphia.
Residential Basement (owner deceased), South Philadelphia.
ryandonnell p h o t o g r a p h y
2626 catharine street | philadelphia, pa. 19146
www.ryandonnell.com | design by Nate Johnson natejohnsondesign.com