ABOUT EAST GERMANTOWN

East Germantown is bounded by East Wister Street to the east, Rufe Street to the south, East Washington Lane and Stenton Avenue to the north, and Septa's Chestnut Hill regional rail tracks to the west.

Germantown, named for the German immigrants who settled in the area, is a neighborhood in North West Philadelphia. Although the boundaries of the area seem to continually change, at the time of its induction into Philadelphia, the neighborhood spanned from Wissahickon Avenue to Roberts Avenue, and from Wister Street to Stenton Avenue. The history of Germantown is well preserved from the old buildings, which still line the streets today, to the various monuments that pay tribute to the area’s accomplishments. During the Revolutionary War, Germantown’s main street was filled with both American and British soldiers. The battle left 150 American soldiers and 70 British soldiers dead, the skirmish was later named “The Battle of Germantown”. Germantown was also home to George Washington and his family in 1793, as many people were fleeing to the area as an attempt to avoid yellow fever. By the late 19th century Germantown was a huge industrial area, however by 1940’s and 50’s most of the area’s wealthy, affluent citizens left the area for a more sedated life in the suburbs. Today most of the neighborhood’s historical sites have been preserved thanks to efforts from the Historical Society and the National Park Service. Many of the area’s houses and buildings are open to the public or tour groups throughout the year. Visitors will also enjoy the neighborhood’s plethora of natural scenery as well as modern attractions such as shops and restaurants. 

RESOURCES

Discover Germantown

Germantown Community Connection

Germantown History

Greater Germantown Housing Development Corporation

UPCOMING EVENTS IN EAST GERMANTOWN

There are no upcoming events in this neighborhood. Feel free to contact us with your contributions.