Wynnefield
| Type | Neighborhood |
|---|---|
| Location | West Philadelphia |
| ZIP code(s) | 19131, 19151 |
| Named for | Dr. Thomas Wynne, William Penn's physician |
| Boundaries | Roughly City Avenue to Fairmount Park, 52nd Street to City Line |
| Adjacent | Overbrook, Parkside, East Falls |
| Major streets | City Avenue, 54th Street, Wynnefield Avenue |
| Transit | SEPTA bus routes, near City Avenue shopping |
| Landmarks | Mann Center for the Performing Arts, Lankenau Medical Center |
Wynnefield is a neighborhood in West Philadelphia known for its tree-lined streets, substantial homes, and proximity to Fairmount Park. The neighborhood takes its name from Dr. Thomas Wynne, William Penn's personal physician who owned land in the area. Wynnefield has historically been one of West Philadelphia's more affluent neighborhoods.
History
[edit | edit source]Wynnefield developed as a prestigious residential area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The neighborhood attracted middle-class and wealthy families seeking spacious homes near the park. By the mid-20th century, Wynnefield became home to a significant Jewish community, though demographics have shifted over the decades.
Mann Center
[edit | edit source]The Mann Center for the Performing Arts is located in Fairmount Park adjacent to Wynnefield:
- Major outdoor concert venue
- Home of the Philadelphia Orchestra's summer season
- Contemporary music performances
- Lawn seating for thousands
Character
[edit | edit source]Housing
[edit | edit source]- Large single-family homes
- Stone and brick construction
- Generous lots
- Tree-lined streets
- Some apartment buildings along City Avenue
Community
[edit | edit source]- Diverse population
- Orthodox Jewish community (Wynnefield Heights)
- African-American families
- Mix of longtime residents
Wynnefield Heights
[edit | edit source]Wynnefield Heights is the northern portion of Wynnefield:
- Higher elevation
- Larger homes
- Significant Orthodox Jewish population
- Synagogues and Jewish institutions
Living in Wynnefield
[edit | edit source]- Spacious homes
- Moderate prices for quality housing
- Near City Avenue amenities
- Park access
- Good schools reputation (varies)
Getting There
[edit | edit source]- SEPTA buses: 44, 65
- City Avenue: Shopping, restaurants, services
- Near: I-76 (Schuylkill Expressway)