Northeast Philadelphia Hall of Fame
Honoring the extraordinary individuals and organizations who have shaped our community's legacy for over 300 years.
Our Mission
The project immortalizes people – present and past – whose lives, accomplishments or contributions should make the Northeast proud and fosters a greater awareness and appreciation of the area's rich history.
Legacy
Recognizing those whose contributions have stood the test of time and continue to inspire.
Service
Honoring dedication to community improvement and the betterment of others' lives.
Achievement
Celebrating excellence in arts, sports, business, public service, and humanitarian work.
Featured Inductees
Meet some of the remarkable individuals and organizations honored for their contributions.
2016
2016Friends of Pennypack Park
Founded 1987
Volunteer organization dedicated to preserving Pennypack Park.
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2016
2016Edward Duffield
1730-1803
Clockmaker and executor of Benjamin Franklin's estate.
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2016Robert N.C. Nix Sr.
1898-1987
First African American to represent Pennsylvania in Congress.
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2012Historic Houses of Worship
Founded 1688-1810
Historic congregations that have served the community through centuries of history.
Read Full BioOur Neighborhoods
Northeast Philadelphia is a tapestry of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique history and character.
Tacony
Home to the historic Disston Saw Works and a model industrial community built for workers.
Holmesburg
Named after Thomas Holme, the surveyor who designed Philadelphia's grid system.
Frankford
One of Philadelphia's oldest communities, with roots dating back to the 1600s.
Torresdale
Site of the Drexel family estate where St. Katharine Drexel spent her summers.
Fox Chase
A historic area known for its beautiful parks and residential character.
Bustleton
Where the first airmail flight from New York to Washington D.C. made a stop in 1918.
Rhawnhurst
A tight-knit community that produced community champions like Ed Kelly.
Mayfair
A vibrant neighborhood with rich commercial and residential history.
A Legacy of Innovation
Northeast Philadelphia has a rich history spanning over 300 years. From pioneers and inventors to saints and astronauts, our community has produced remarkable individuals who have shaped our nation and world.
Explore Our HistoryThomas Holme, who designed Philadelphia's grid system, is buried near Holme Avenue in what is now Pennypack Park.
Robert Cornelius, credited with taking the first photograph, lived in Wissinoming.
Disston Saw Works in Tacony was once the largest saw manufacturing plant in the world.
The first airmail trip from New York to Washington D.C. stopped in Bustleton.
Philadelphia International Airport was initially planned for the current site of the Kraft factory in Northeast Philadelphia.
Greenbelt Knoll was Philadelphia's first planned interracial community.
Glen Foerd is the last riverfront estate remaining in Philadelphia.
About the Hall of Fame
The Northeast Philadelphia Hall of Fame was established in 2009 to honor the remarkable individuals and organizations that have shaped our community. What began as a conversation between State Representative Dennis O'Brien and Northeast Times writer Tom Waring has grown into an annual tradition celebrating excellence.
In partnership with the Center for Northeast Philadelphia History, the Historical Society of Frankford, and Holy Family University, the Hall of Fame has inducted distinguished honorees who have made lasting impacts on Northeast Philadelphia and beyond.
Know Someone Deserving?
Help us honor Northeast Philadelphia's finest by nominating individuals or organizations who have made significant contributions.
Submit a NominationSupport Our Mission
Your generous contribution helps us continue honoring Northeast Philadelphia's heroes and preserving our history.
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