The Philadelphia Print Shop, which was established 1982 in the historic Chestnut Hill area of Philadelphia, has been sold. The new owner, David Mackey, plans to relocate the Shop to 209 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA.

“The Philadelphia Print Shop has earned a national and distinguished reputation for its extensive collection of fine prints and historical maps, combined with excellent research and fine customer service,” said Mackey. “When it closed, I saw an opportunity to combine the business with my hobby and passion for collecting and selling antique maps.”

Beginning August 19, Mackey and returning staff, Jane Toczek and Quincy Williams, will hold a Moving Sale Wednesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm at the Chestnut Hill location before the inventory is moved at the end of the month. The sale will be in-shop only, but out-of-towners can feel free to email any inquiries. We will do our best to respond as quickly as possible, given the logistics of the move.

Later, a Covid-style grand opening of the Wayne location will be scheduled for October 2020. “What that will look like is dependent on the status of the pandemic,” said Mackey. “While much of our business will be conducted online, I see the new storefront as essential. A large part of the joy of this hobby comes from the interpersonal exchanges with individuals, students and collectors, many who are as passionate about local history as am I.”

The Philadelphia Print Shop was established in 1982 by Don Cresswell, a former curator of Revolutionary Maps with the Library of Congress and university librarian. His discerning eye made him a regular on the PBS program, Antiques Roadshow. “I wish David Mackey great success. I’m happy that the business I established almost 40 years ago with co-founder, Christopher Lane, will be in the hands of such an enthusiastic new owner. If I can assist in any way, it would be a joy to me,” said Dr. Cresswell.

Mackey recognizes the value of the tradition he now carries. “I simply cannot tell you how honored and privileged I feel to have this opportunity to carry on the fine legacy of Don Cresswell and The Philadelphia Print Shop. While I may never be able to fill his shoes the same way, I will endeavor to follow his footsteps while sharing my passion with others.”

David Mackey was raised on the Main Line, living in Chester County his entire life with the exception of nearly 10 years in Florida. A licensed commercial real estate/ land development professional with more than 35 years of experience, David has for more than 20 years been a collector and purveyor of antique maps, and is uniquely qualified to build on the well-established brand of The Philadelphia Print Shop.