Glen Foerd
| Glen Foerd on the Delaware | |
|---|---|
| Type | Historic estate / Cultural venue |
| Location | Torresdale (Delaware River) |
| Coordinates | 40.0820,-74.9930 |
| Area | 18 acres |
| Established | 1850s (estate); public since 1980s |
| Operated by | Glen Foerd Conservation Corporation |
| Features | Victorian mansion, Delaware River frontage, gardens, events |
| Hours | Grounds by appointment; events per schedule |
| Transit | SEPTA Regional Rail to Torresdale; bus 58 |
| Website | Official Site |
Glen Foerd on the Delaware is an 18-acre riverfront estate in the Torresdale section of Northeast Philadelphia, featuring a magnificent Victorian mansion with spectacular Delaware River views. The estate represents one of the few remaining "River Road" mansions that once lined the Delaware above the city, offering a glimpse of 19th-century country estate life along with cultural programming and event space.[1]
Glen Foerd preserves both architectural heritage and irreplaceable Delaware River frontage.
History
[edit | edit source]River Road Estates
[edit | edit source]The Delaware River above Philadelphia was once lined with estates:
- Wealthy Philadelphians' country retreats
- River transportation access
- Scenic and cooling in summer
- Most now demolished
Construction
[edit | edit source]Glen Foerd developed over time:
- 1850s: Original house built
- 1902-1903: Major expansion by Tonner family
- Victorian Gothic architecture
- Elaborate interiors
Charles Macalester Tonner
[edit | edit source]Charles Macalester Tonner transformed the estate:
- Textile manufacturer
- Major 1902-1903 renovation
- Current mansion appearance
- Lavish entertaining
Florence Tonner
[edit | edit source]Florence Tonner (1874-1973):
- Lived at Glen Foerd for decades
- Preserved the estate
- Planned for public use
- Died at age 98
Public Access
[edit | edit source]- 1980s: Estate became public
- Nonprofit conservation
- Cultural programming
- Preservation ongoing
Features
[edit | edit source]The Mansion
[edit | edit source]Victorian Gothic architecture:
- Elaborate exterior
- Period interiors
- Original furnishings
- Grand spaces
- Delaware River orientation
Delaware River Frontage
[edit | edit source]Rare waterfront access:
- Lawn to river's edge
- Dock and waterfront
- Spectacular views
- Unique Philadelphia setting
Gardens
[edit | edit source]- Historic landscape
- Mature trees
- Ornamental plantings
- River views
Carriage House
[edit | edit source]- Historic outbuilding
- Event space
- Support facilities
Programs
[edit | edit source]Cultural Events
[edit | edit source]Glen Foerd hosts:
- Concerts and performances
- Art exhibitions
- Lectures and programs
- Seasonal events
Private Events
[edit | edit source]- Weddings and receptions
- Corporate events
- Private parties
- Photo shoots
Tours
[edit | edit source]- Mansion tours (scheduled)
- Grounds tours
- Special access programs
Visiting
[edit | edit source]Access
[edit | edit source]- By appointment for tours
- Events per schedule
- Check website for programs
Getting There
[edit | edit source]Location: 5001 Grant Avenue, Torresdale
By Public Transit:
- SEPTA Regional Rail to Torresdale Station
- SEPTA Bus 58
By Car:
- Parking on grounds
- Near Grant Avenue
Tips
[edit | edit source]- Check website for tour and event schedule
- The riverfront is spectacular
- Events are the best way to experience the property
- Consider becoming a member
Significance
[edit | edit source]Glen Foerd matters because:
- Rare surviving River Road estate
- Delaware River frontage
- Victorian architecture preservation
- Cultural programming venue
- Irreplaceable historic resource
Nearby
[edit | edit source]- Torresdale — Surrounding neighborhood
- Delaware River — Waterfront
- Northeast Philadelphia — Area
- Pennypack on the Delaware — Nearby park
See Also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "Glen Foerd on the Delaware". Glen Foerd Conservation Corporation. Retrieved December 30, 2025