Burholme
| Type | Neighborhood |
|---|---|
| Location | Northeast/Northwest Philadelphia boundary |
| ZIP code(s) | 19111 |
| Named for | Burholme estate (Ryerss family) |
| Boundaries | Roughly Central Avenue to Cottman Avenue, Rising Sun Avenue to Pennypack Park |
| Adjacent | Fox Chase, Oxford Circle, Lawncrest |
| Major streets | Rising Sun Avenue, Cottman Avenue, Central Avenue |
| Transit | SEPTA Regional Rail (Fox Chase Line), SEPTA bus routes 24, 70 |
| Landmarks | Burholme Park, Ryerss Museum and Library |
Burholme is a residential neighborhood that straddles the boundary between Northeast Philadelphia and Northwest Philadelphia. The 50-acre Burholme Park anchors the community, alongside the historic Ryerss Museum and Library. Tree-lined streets, mid-century homes, and easy access to green space and the Fox Chase Line of SEPTA Regional Rail define the area. ZIP code 19111. The neighborhood's borders run roughly from Central Avenue on the south to Cottman Avenue on the north, with Rising Sun Avenue forming the western edge and Pennypack Park marking the eastern boundary.
History
The name comes from the Burholme estate, once the country seat of the Ryerss family, a major Philadelphia merchant dynasty in the 1800s. Joseph W. Ryerss constructed the mansion there in the 1850s. His son Robert W. Ryerss inherited the property and used it as home base between his frequent international travels.[1] Robert never married. When he died in 1895, he left the entire estate—mansion, contents, and all—to the City of Philadelphia. He wanted it to become a public park and museum. The city accepted, and Burholme Park opened to the public shortly after.[2]
Residential development around the estate came mostly in the early and mid-twentieth century. Streetcars first, then automobiles, made Philadelphia's northeastern edges accessible for row homes and twin houses. By the 1950s, Burholme had the character it still has today: working- to middle-class brick houses on small lots, with the park serving as the neighborhood's civic and recreational core.
Burholme Park
Roughly 50 acres make up Burholme Park, sitting right in the heart of the neighborhood.[3] Philadelphia Parks & Recreation owns and maintains it. You'll find athletic fields, playgrounds, a dog run, and picnic areas spread across gently rolling terrain. The park's layout echoes the original Ryerss estate grounds. Several old trees on the property were there before the park became public. It's the main recreation spot for Burholme residents and neighbors in Fox Chase and Lawncrest. Visitors from all over the city come to see the Ryerss Museum.
Ryerss Museum and Library
The Ryerss Museum and Library is housed in the original Ryerss mansion inside Burholme Park. Built in the 1850s, this Italianate Victorian structure keeps much of its original character. Ornate woodwork inside. Original furnishings throughout.[4] Best part? Admission is free.
Robert Ryerss traveled extensively across Asia and beyond in the second half of the 1800s, and his collections show it. Asian decorative arts, ceramics, lacquerware, textiles, carved ivories, personal objects he picked up abroad. Family portraits and Victorian furniture fill the rooms, making it feel like a home where someone actually lived, not a sterile museum gallery.[5] The library section holds historical volumes and archival materials related to the estate and family.
Many Philadelphians think the Ryerss is an underrated gem. The museum runs seasonal programs with interactive and educational events for kids in summer, bringing in families from across the region.[6] Hours change, so check with Philadelphia Parks & Recreation directly for current times and event details.
Character
Housing
Most of the housing is brick, built between the 1920s and 1960s. You'll see rowhomes, twins, and detached singles, with more detached houses near the park. Streets have trees. Lots are on the smaller side. Prices have stayed moderate compared to Fox Chase and similar neighborhoods, though they've risen in line with broader Philadelphia trends in recent years.
Community
It's always been working- to middle-class, attracting families who want park access, transit options, and a quieter residential feel. The population makeup has shifted over time, reflecting changes across Northeast Philadelphia as a whole. Public schools serve the area. Local block and neighborhood associations stay active.
Transportation
SEPTA bus routes 24 and 70 run through Burholme, connecting residents to Center City and surrounding communities.[7] The Fox Chase Line of SEPTA Regional Rail runs along the western edge, with Ryers station offering direct rail access for commuters heading into Center City. Rising Sun Avenue serves as the main commercial and transit corridor.
See also
- Fox Chase
- Oxford Circle
- Lawncrest
- Northeast Philadelphia
- Northwest Philadelphia
- Ryerss Museum and Library
References
- ↑ ["Ryerss Museum & Library," Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, City of Philadelphia. Accessed 2024.]
- ↑ ["Ryerss Museum & Library," Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, City of Philadelphia. Accessed 2024.]
- ↑ ["Burholme Park," Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, City of Philadelphia. Accessed 2024.]
- ↑ ["Ryerss Museum & Library," Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, City of Philadelphia. Accessed 2024.]
- ↑ ["Ryerss Museum & Library," Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, City of Philadelphia. Accessed 2024.]
- ↑ ["Ryerss Museum & Library," Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, City of Philadelphia. Accessed 2024.]
- ↑ ["Route 24," SEPTA, Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority. Accessed 2024.] ["Route 70," SEPTA, Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority. Accessed 2024.]