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.
Fitler Square
Location
Fitler Square is located just south of Rittenhouse Square. Its boundaries are from 21st Street to the Schuylkill River and from Locust Street south to South Street. It is just a short walk away from Center City.
History
Fitler Square was named after Edwin H. Fitler, a beloved Philadelphia mayor in 1896.
The neighborhood’s growth as a community began when coal was imported using the Schuylkill River. The river gave Philadelphia another way to import goods rather than depending solely on the Delaware River. In the 1830’s coal imports were booming, Irish immigrants moved into the area, and textile and weaving factories popped up. The economy was booming and Fitler Square had a great outlook.
Just a few decades later the delivery of goods stopped in the 1870’s due to the building of the Reading Railroad. All of the coal was imported on train. This was the start to the decline of the prospering Fitler Square.
The neighborhood’s residents experienced poverty over time and the neighborhood struggled to be what it was. Pre-1950’s, the neighborhood was considered an urban blight. Jeanne R. Lowe even wrote that Fitler Square was “a mudhole inhabited by drunks and empty bottles.”
This soon changed when Center City contracted architect Norman Rice to fix up the neighborhood in 1953. Rice planted many trees and shrubbery to spruce up the neighborhood. However, vandals destroyed almost everything Rice had put in.
Fast forward to 1981, Fitler Square was revitalized and restored thanks to Mrs. John F. Wilson, the founder of the Fitler Square Improvements Association. The park was enclosed with a wrought iron fence and a fountain was added in the center. It’s now one of the most desired and expensive neighborhoods in Philadelphia.
Atmosphere
Fitler Square is made up of many narrow side streets lined with towering trees. Many of the homes were built in the mid-19th and 20th centuries and are a variety of unique styles. The neighborhood is quiet for the most part and just a few steps away from Rittenhouse Square.
Highlights and Events
Fitler Square has a handful of events throughout the year. However, it likes to keep things pretty quiet. Residents pay an annual membership fee that goes towards the upkeep of the neighborhood and its events. The Spring Fair takes place every Mother’s Day weekend in the park. An Easter egg hunt is planned for children of all ages. Winter holidays are celebrated with community lightings in the park.
Throughout the year you can find a Farmer’s Market on the square where you can pick up fresh country produce.
Reach out today to get started!
Looking to Move?
Do unique older homes excite you? Are you looking for a quiet neighborhood to live? Then Fitler Square may be the place for you! 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.
