Our Rich History
Discover 300+ years of remarkable stories, achievements, and community spirit in Northeast Philadelphia.
A Community of Pioneers
Northeast Philadelphia has been home to pioneers, inventors, saints, and heroes for over three centuries. From Thomas Holme, who designed the very grid system that defines Philadelphia, to Chris Ferguson, who commanded the final Space Shuttle mission, our community has produced individuals whose impact extends far beyond our neighborhoods.
The Northeast Philadelphia Hall of Fame was established in 2009 to preserve and celebrate this remarkable legacy. What began as a conversation between State Representative Dennis O'Brien and Northeast Times writer Tom Waring has grown into an annual tradition of honoring those who have made significant contributions to our community and beyond.
Historical Timeline
Thomas Holme surveys and designs the original plan for Philadelphia
First churches established in Northeast Philadelphia
Thomas Holme passes away, buried near what is now Pennypack Park
Henry Disston founds Disston Saw Works
Disston relocates factory to Tacony, builds worker community
Katharine Drexel founds Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament
Frank Shuman builds world's first solar thermal power station
First airmail flight stops in Bustleton
Greenbelt Knoll becomes Philadelphia's first interracial community
Rev. Leon Sullivan founds Opportunities Industrialization Centers
Aid for Friends founded in Northeast Philadelphia
Katharine Drexel canonized as a saint
Northeast Philadelphia Hall of Fame established
Chris Ferguson commands final Space Shuttle mission
Our 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.
Thomas 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.