Bridesburg

Type	Neighborhood
Location	River Wards
ZIP code(s)	19137
Named for	Joseph Kirkbride's bridge over Frankford Creek
Boundaries	Roughly Tacony Creek to Frankford Creek, Delaware River to Torresdale Avenue
Adjacent	Tacony, Port Richmond, Frankford
Major streets	Richmond Street, Frankford Avenue, Bridge Street
Transit	SEPTA bus routes, near Frankford Transportation Center
Landmarks	Bridesburg Recreation Center, Delaware River waterfront

Bridesburg is a small, tight-knit neighborhood in the River Wards section of Philadelphia, located along the Delaware River between Port Richmond and Tacony. The neighborhood has maintained strong community bonds and a working-class character throughout its history.

History

Bridesburg takes its name from Joseph Kirkbride, who built a bridge over Frankford Creek in the early 18th century. The neighborhood developed around industrial activity along the Delaware River and Frankford Creek. Unlike many Philadelphia neighborhoods, Bridesburg has retained its close-knit character and many longtime families.

Character

Community Identity

Strong neighborhood pride
Multigenerational families
Close-knit community
Active civic associations
Annual community events

Housing

Brick rowhouses
Working-class homes
Well-maintained properties
Affordable prices
Limited housing turnover

Demographics

Working-class families
Polish heritage community
Irish heritage community
Longtime residents predominant

Industrial History

Bridesburg's waterfront was historically industrial:

Manufacturing facilities
River-related industry
Some remaining light industrial uses
Brownfield sites

Living in Bridesburg

Tight-knit community
Affordable housing
Near I-95
Delaware River access
Strong neighborhood identity

Getting There

SEPTA buses: 25, 84
I-95: Nearby access
Near: Frankford Transportation Center