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 beautiful and historic Society Hill neighborhood is located just south of Old City along the Delaware River. Its official boundaries are from Front Street west to 8th Street and Walnut Street south to Lombard Street.
Society Hill overlaps slightly with Washington Square West and includes Washington Square Park.
History
Settlers began to call the area, which is now known as Society Hill, home as early as the 1680’s. This was a prime location in early colonial times since it was so close to the Delaware River and later Independence Hall and other businesses in Old City. It was actually one of the most populous neighborhoods in colonial Philadelphia. In fact, by the 1860’s a total of 24,792 residents lived in Society Hill.
Before the neighborhood was known as Society Hill, it was known as the Dock Ward. This was due to the Dock Creek that ran through the neighborhood. After the Revolutionary War, the creek became so polluted that the city decided to cover it and create a street. A large market lined the new Dock Street where many residents bought their food and goods. Other businesses such as taverns popped up in the neighborhood along with many churches that still stand today.
Over the years, the neighborhood took a down turn. It became known as a slum neighborhood and was in desperate need of revival. During the 1950’s organizations such as the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority took part in the Greater Philadelphia Movement to bring the neighborhood to its highest potential. This project was one of the first urban renewal programs to take place in America. Homeowners, buyers, and investors were asked to demolish or restore buildings already standing. The 31-story Society Hill Towers were also built during this neighborhood revival.
The renewal plan was officially completed in 1977. Society Hill is now one of the most sought after neighborhoods to live in Philadelphia. In fact, it has some of the highest priced properties in the city of Philadelphia. You’ll understand why when you walk through Society Hill and admire its beauty and history.
Atmosphere
As one of the oldest neighborhoods in Philadelphia, you’ll notice historical buildings and a colonial feel to the neighborhood. Row homes line cobblestone streets with brick sidewalks. Some even display plaques proudly showing off the year the home was built. Franklin street lamps, which were invented by Philadelphia-native Benjamin Franklin, can still be found in Society Hill. There are a handful of historical sites you can visit such as Old Pine Street Church, the Powel House, and Mother Bethel A.M.E Church.
High-end restaurants are scattered throughout Society Hill. Independent coffee shops can be found in the neighborhood as well. The unique Headhouse Square sits at 2nd and Lombard Street, where you can sit outside and enjoy nice weather.
It’s a fairly quiet neighborhood with mostly residential streets. Nightlife isn’t a staple in this neighborhood, so you can expect quiet weekends.
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Highlights and Events
Though Society Hill isn’t known for hosting festivals or block parties, there is plenty to do in the neighborhood. You can dine at famous restaurants such as Zahav, Bistro Romano, or aboard the ship that sits in the Delaware River, Moshulu.
During the warmer months, you can relax in a hammock at Spruce Street Harbor Park. Food trucks and pop-up beer gardens can be found in the modern park. It’s best to go at night so you can see different colored lights hanging from trees.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can join one of Philadelphia’s famous Ghost Tours and explore historical sites and buildings while hunting for remaining spirits.
Learn More About Society Hill Today!
Looking to Move?
Do the quiet, cobblestone streets of Society Hill sound like somewhere you can live? Does living in a historical neighborhood make you excited? Make sure to contact Philadelphia’s leading real estate agent, the Agent Lady! Schedule your FREE consultation today to learn more about Society Hill.
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.
