An Early History of Bridesburg, PA

The personal injury attorneys in Bridesburg, PA, present this article to offer readers some detailed information about the area.

Bridesburg is a neighborhood in the Northeast section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The river-front community is a historically German and Irish neighborhood and extends as far as the southwest of Castor Avenue. Bridesburg belongs to ZIP code 19137 and area codes 215, 267, and 445.

History

The area known today as Bridesburg was originally inhabited by the Lenni Lenape Indians, an indigenous people of the Northeastern Woodlands. In 1609, English sea explorer and navigator Henry Hudson arrived in the region and was the first European ever to see the land of Bridesburg, PA.

By 1638, Bridesburg saw an influx of Swedish immigrants who purchased land east of the Deleware River from the Lenni Lenape Indians. The Swedes named the area "New Sweden" and lived cohesively with the Native Americans for many years. In 1645, the Swedes moved to the Northeast of present-day Philadelphia, and the Dutch arrived at Bridebug in 1645.

Despite there already being multiple inhabitants and settlers in the area, the land was not developed until the 1680s when William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, and several other Englishmen migrated to the area.

Following 1750, Bridesburg became home to a large German population.

In the early 19th century, Bridesburg was home to land formerly belonging to Joseph Kirkbride, the proprietor of a ferry over Frankford Creek. On March 20, 1811, the area was granted the right to build the Kirkbridge and receive toll for passage.

On April 1, 1833, Philadelphia County bought the Kirkbride bridge and 2.5 acres of land for $5,500. While the area at the time was known as Kirkbridesburg, many occupants felt as though the name was too long, so it was shortened to Bridesburg and commonly used thereafter.

By April 1, 1848, Bridesburg was officially founded and incorporated as a borough.

In the Act of Consolidation of 1854, the borough of Bridesburg became part of the City of Philadelphia.

Bridesburg Historical Society

To preserve the rich history of Bridesburg, the Bridesburg Historical Society was formed in 1989. The society is located at 2801 Brill Street, 19137 Philadelphia, PA, and holds various collections related to the community's culture, history, and industry.

The non-profit historical organization offers public educational programs, publications, and performances.

 Notable Landmarks

With such a rich history, it is no surprise that Bridesburg is home to various notable locations. Some of which include,

• The Besty Ross Bridge, also known as the Ross Memorial Bridge, was built from 1969 to 1974 and opened in April 1976. The bridge was the first automotive bridge named for a woman in America.
• The Bridesburg School, also known as the Irvin School, was built from 1847-1848. The building is the second oldest surviving school in Philadelphia. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.

Enjoyed this article? See the related: A Timeline and Modern History of Frankford, PA

Our Local Office

Have you or a loved one sustained personal damages from an accident? You may be entitled to financial compensation. Trust the Bridesburg, PA, personal injury attorneys to fight for you. Contact our legal team today for a free consultation.

Justice Guardians
3400 Aramingo Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19134
(267) 277-2890