Consider this: a haven of modernist homes nestled within Philadelphia. This is Greenbelt Knoll. It is more than just a neighborhood. It is a testament to progressive ideals and innovative design.
Greenbelt Knoll stands as the first planned racially integrated development in Philadelphia. It was among the first in the United States. Developer Morris Milgram championed open housing. He stipulated that 55 percent of homes be sold to whites. Forty-five percent were for non-white families. This bold vision took shape between 1952 and 1957.
Picture this small neighborhood. It originally had its own swimming pool. The pool was filled in around 1985. Now it leaves no trace.
Eighteen single-family homes define Greenbelt Knoll. Originally there were nineteen. These homes sit on a wooded cul-de-sac. It is located off Longford Street. Pennypack Park surrounds it on three sides. Montgomery & Bishop designed these modernist homes. Louis Kahn and Harry Duncan consulted on the project. Landscape architect Margaret Lancaster Duncan also contributed.
These homes boast simple wood frames. They feature overhanging eaves. High-placed windows ensure privacy. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors invite the outside in. Distinctive chimneys add character. Decks and patios extend living spaces.
Greenbelt Knoll earned accolades for its design. The American Institute of Architects recognized it. So did House and Home. Better Homes and Gardens also praised it. The National Broadcasting Corporation joined in. Philadelphia Mayor Richardson Dilworth lauded the development. He presented Montgomery & Bishop with a City of Philadelphia Tribute. He cited Greenbelt Knoll’s new standards for contemporary residential architecture.
Greenbelt Knoll attracted notable residents. Morris Milgram lived here. Robert N.C. Nix, Sr. called it home. He was the first African American to represent Pennsylvania in Congress. Pulitzer Prize winner Charles Fuller grew up here. Rev. Leon Sullivan also resided here. He was a civil rights activist. Fire Captain Roosevelt Barlow lived here. He was a civil rights activist. He was among the first African-American firefighters to integrate the Philadelphia Fire Department. Beverly Glenn-Copeland lived here. She is a celebrated new age folk-jazz musician.
Greenbelt Knoll gained historic designation. It was listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places in 2006. In 2010, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission placed a plaque here.
Seventeen homes contribute to the historic character. One home, rebuilt after a fire, does not. Another lot is now open space. The original house was demolished in 1997. Including garages, a studio, and a park, there are 26 resources. Twenty-two are contributing buildings. One is a contributing site. Two are non-contributing buildings. One is a non-contributing site. The development remains heavily wooded. The houses and landscape retain their original integrity.
Today Greenbelt Knoll stands as a reminder. It reminds us that thoughtful design can create community. It proves integration can be achieved through vision. Take a moment to appreciate this unique Philadelphia treasure. It embodies both architectural excellence and social progress.