Neighborhood Highlight: Nicetown

The Waltonian is beginning a new series that highlights various neighborhoods in Philadelphia, as a way of exploring Eastern University’s backyard. Look for more Centerspreads like this one throughout the semester! Below is a brief introduction to our first featured neighborhood: Nicetown.

Nicetown, also known as Tioga, gets its name from Hans te Neues, a Mennonite immigrant who purchased the land around Hunting Park Avenue in 1699. Nicetown/Tioga centers around 20th and Tioga Street. The neighborhood was once home to Philadelphia’s largest steel works, Midvale Steel Corporation. Formed in 1873, Midvale was the result of a collaboration between Edward Clark and William Sellers. Midvale closed its steel plant in the 70s after facing stiff competition from the steel industry in Pittsburgh.

Today, Nicetown faces steep economic challenges and a reputation for crime, but the neighborhood remains vibrant, colorful, and full of life.

Sources: Free Library of Philadelphia.org, ExplorePAHistory.com

Photo Credits: Matt Wolek and Jon Galdames-Henry.