Fairhill
Appearance
Fairhill
| Type | Neighborhood |
|---|---|
| Location | North Philadelphia |
| ZIP code(s) | 19133 |
| Named for | Historic Fairhill estate |
| Boundaries | Roughly Lehigh Avenue to Erie Avenue, Broad Street to 5th Street |
| Adjacent | West Kensington, Hunting Park, Feltonville |
| Major streets | 5th Street, Lehigh Avenue, Indiana Avenue |
| Transit | SEPTA bus routes |
| Landmarks | Fairhill Square, Latino community |
Fairhill is a neighborhood in North Philadelphia with a significant Latino and Puerto Rican population. The neighborhood takes its name from a historic estate and burial ground. Fairhill faces economic challenges but has strong community organizations working on neighborhood improvement.
History
[edit | edit source]The name Fairhill comes from the estate of Isaac Norris, a colonial merchant. The Fairhill Burial Ground dates to the 18th century. The neighborhood developed as part of North Philadelphia's industrial expansion and later became home to Philadelphia's growing Puerto Rican community.
Latino Community
[edit | edit source]Fairhill is predominantly Latino:
- Puerto Rican heritage prominent
- Latino businesses and services
- Spanish-language community
- Cultural organizations
- Churches as community centers
Character
[edit | edit source]Housing
[edit | edit source]- Rowhouses
- Mix of conditions
- Significant vacancies
- Affordable prices
Challenges
[edit | edit source]- High poverty rate
- Unemployment
- Crime concerns
- Limited commercial services
- Health disparities
Assets
[edit | edit source]- Community organizations
- Cultural identity
- Affordable housing
- Near transit
Fairhill Square
[edit | edit source]Fairhill Square is a small park in the neighborhood providing green space in a densely built area.
Living in Fairhill
[edit | edit source]- Very affordable housing
- Latino community and culture
- Significant challenges
- Community organizations active
Getting There
[edit | edit source]- SEPTA buses: 3, 54, 75
- Near: Broad Street Line
- 5th Street: Main corridor