Get to know the many neighborhoods of Philadelphia in Agent Lady’s blog series “Philly Neighborhood Spotlight.” Whether you are looking to buy a home in this wonderful City of Brotherly Love or just want to get to know the lay of the land, read about the history, location, and highlights of Philly neighborhoods.
Location
The Chinatown neighborhood is just northeast of Center City. It lies between Vine Street and Arch Street and from 7th Street to Broad Street. It is a close neighbor of Old City and Center City.
History
There are many Chinatown neighborhoods in major cities throughout the United States. This is due to an influx of Chinese immigrants during the 1840’s due to civil war and a stagnant economy in China. During the Gold Rush, Chinese men immigrated to America in hopes of striking rich.
However, Congress decided to pass the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1882. This prevented the Chinese from coming to the US in fear that they would take away American jobs. The Chinese men who were already in America were unable to move their families over and had to send money back to them.
Chinatown in Philadelphia began around this time. Chinese immigrants came from New Jersey and San Francisco to work and start businesses. They mostly worked in restaurants, hand laundry shops, or small specialty stores.
In 1943, the Chinese Exclusionary Act was lifted, allowing for more Chinese immigrants to come to America. Chinatown boomed at this influx of immigrants. Churches were built in Chinatown and helped immigrants to gain American citizenship.
Fast forward to 1966; Philadelphia announced its plans to build the Vine Street Expressway. The residents of Chinatown were concerned. The plan would destroy there church and school, homes, and businesses. The community spoke up and petitioned for a change. In the 1980’s a new plan was made that saved Chinatown.
Now Chinatown is a popular tourist attraction and a favorite neighborhood for many Philadelphia residents.
Atmosphere
There are many businesses in Chinatown. It is not a residential neighborhood. In fact, there are hardly any brownstone or brick homes in the neighborhood. Most residences are upper level apartments above businesses.
Restaurants and bars line the streets of Chinatown. There are plenty of specialty shops, grocery stores, tea shops, and bakeries as well. The streets are always busy and bright neon lights line the streets.
Highlights and Events
Each year, typically in February, Chinatown celebrates the Chinese New Year. It is a midnight celebration equipped with fireworks and a dragon dance. It’s a fun activity for people of all ages.
On the weekends, the bars and restaurants are full. The Trocadero, a music and event venue holds shows and events often.
Many people also go to Chinatown to see the Friendship Gate. It is a bright and colorful arch that stands 40-feet tall on 10th street. It follows traditional Qing Dynasty style and contains tiles from Tianjin, Philadelphia’s sister city.
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Looking to Buy A Home in Philadelphia?
Does the hustle and bustle of Chinatown sound like somewhere you would like to live? Contact Philadelphia’s leading real estate agent, Cherise “Agent Lady” Wynne, for your free buyer consultation today!
About Brittany: Brittany is the super organized (and awesome) marketing assistant that helps home buying and selling clients have the best experience possible. She also shares her creative side by writing compelling short stories about the home buying process that are loosely based on actual client situations and captures the authentic feel of Philadelphia neighborhoods.
