Isn’t it remarkable how a neighborhood can feel like its own little world? That’s Girard Estate. It is a leafy oasis in South Philadelphia. Many dream of moving here. Residents rarely want to leave.
Girard Estate’s story begins with Stephen Girard. He was one of the wealthiest men in America. In 1797, Girard acquired a farm here. It was part of Passyunk Township then. He cultivated America’s first artichokes. His pear orchard was second to none. Girard loved his farm. He visited it regularly until his death in 1831.
Girard left his estate to the city of Philadelphia. There was one condition. The income had to support Girard College. It was a school for poor white orphan boys in North Philly. Trustees hired James H. Windrim and his son John T. Windrim. Their task was to create ideal city homes. The houses were initially rentals. They generated income for Girard College.
In the 1950s, tenants protested rising rents. They successfully petitioned the court to allow sales. All 480 homes sold in two weeks. In 1999, the historic district gained local designation. This protected the neighborhood’s unique character.
The houses in Girard Estate boast diverse architectural styles. Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival and Prairie styles are all present. Many are brick or stucco semidetached houses. They have porches, yards and large rooms. These features set them apart from other rowhouses in South Philadelphia.
Girard Estate has been home to influential Italian-American families. Politicians and even mobsters have lived here. Phil “The Chicken Man” Testa resided on Porter Street. He was head of the Scarfo organized crime family. A nail bomb tragically ended his life on his front porch in 1981. Maria Donatucci also called Girard Estate home. She grew up near Girard Park and represented Philadelphia in the General Assembly.
The 2300 block of Lambert Street may look familiar. It was a filming location for Rocky II. The exterior shots of Rocky and Adrian’s house were filmed here.
Girard Park serves as the neighborhood’s central gathering space. Residents host events such as movie nights here.
Today, Girard Estate maintains its village feel. Mature trees line the streets. Historic architecture defines the area. The community is growing more diverse. Many who moved to South Jersey in the 1970s and 1980s are returning. Girard Estate offers an affordable, steeped in history, “pocket of suburbia”. It is a place where people want to live.