Elkins Park
Welcome to Elkins Park, a captivating neighborhood nestled in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, just north of Philadelphia. With its rich history, architectural charm, and vibrant community spirit, Elkins Park offers a delightful blend of past and present. As you wander through its tree-lined streets and explore its historic landmarks, you'll discover a place where tradition meets modernity, where diverse cultures coexist, and where a strong sense of community thrives. From its opulent mansions and architectural marvels to its prestigious educational institutions and lively events, Elkins Park invites you to embark on a journey that celebrates its heritage and embraces its dynamic present. Whether you're seeking tranquility in its serene parks, inspiration in its artistic endeavors, or a warm sense of belonging, Elkins Park welcomes you with open arms. So, come along and immerse yourself in the enchanting tapestry of history, culture, and neighborly charm that makes Elkins Park truly one of a kind.
Life in Elkins Park
Thinking about moving to Elkins Park? This lovely town is mostly residential and has great examples of architecture around the turn of the 20th century. Neighbors have known each other for decades so don’t be surprised by the warm welcome when moving in! Rich in history and prominence, Elkins Park is a fantastic place to call home. Elkins Park is divided between Abington Township and Cheltenham Township.
This is a fantastic time to move to Elkins Park as a major event center will be coming to town soon at the Elkins Estate!
Elkins Estate
The Elkins Estate is an American 42 acre estate. The estate contains seven buildings, the most notable being Elstowe Manor and Chelten House, mansions designed by Horace Trumbauer. Built in 1898, those buildings, now known for their Gilded Age designs and opulence, were once the home of wealthy businessman William Elkins. The most iconic, Elstowe Manor, is among the remaining buildings designed by the famed Gilded Age architect Horace Trumbauer. The buildings have been largely vacant since the last owners, the Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine de Ricci, left in 2009.
A current renovation project of $20-25 million by the new owner, Landmark Developers, will create about 120 jobs. The renovation plan for the estate’s seven buildings includes a hotel and events center with 110 hotel rooms, five guest cottages, two artist-in-residence apartments, an indoor and outdoor restaurant, a distillery, a wellness center and spa, and a helipad.
Landmark Developers has promised to honor the estate’s history by preserving six of the seven original buildings: Elstowe Manor, Chelten House, a child's playhouse known as the "casino," the stables, a caretaker's cottage, and the "power plant" building.
Lynnewood Hall
110 room neoclassical estate built between 1897 and 1900 for US tycoon, and prolific art collector, Peter Arrell Browne Widener. When it was first built, the property stood on a staggeringly large 480-acre estate in Elkins Park in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. Designed by Horace Trumbauer and covering 70,000 square feet, Lynnewood Hall was constructed from limestone and designed in a T-shape. Of the 110 rooms, 55 are bedrooms and 20 are bathrooms. There was as an art gallery and a 2,550 sq ft ballroom large enough to accommodate 1,000 guests. This property has recently been purchased and will be undergoing a massive renovation soon!
Why live in Elkins Park, PA?
There are many reasons why someone might choose to live in Elkins Park, PA. Here are some of the top reasons:
Historic charm: Elkins Park is known for its beautiful historic homes and tree-lined streets, which give the area a charming, old-fashioned feel. Many of the homes in the area have been well-preserved and restored, adding to the overall appeal of the area.
Proximity to Philadelphia: Elkins Park is located just a few miles north of Philadelphia, making it an attractive location for those who work or play in the city. It offers easy access to all that Philadelphia has to offer, including museums, restaurants, and cultural events.
Highly rated schools: Elkins Park is part of the Cheltenham School District, which is highly rated, with several schools earning national recognition for academic excellence. This makes Elkins Park a popular choice for families with school-age children.
Cultural diversity: Elkins Park is known for its cultural diversity, with residents from many different backgrounds and ethnicities. This creates a vibrant and welcoming community, with plenty of opportunities to learn about different cultures and traditions.
Community events: Elkins Park offers a variety of community events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and holiday celebrations. These events bring the community together and create a strong sense of community spirit.
Parks and recreation: Elkins Park has several parks and recreational areas, including the Curtis Arboretum, which offers walking trails and beautiful gardens, and the Tookany Creek Park, which has hiking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields.
In conclusion, Elkins Park is an attractive place to live due to its historic charm, proximity to Philadelphia, highly rated schools, cultural diversity, community events, and parks and recreation opportunities. If you're considering moving to Elkins Park, it's important to work with an experienced real estate agent who can help you find the right home to meet your needs.
What is the Elkins Park Real Estate Market Like?
As of writing this, the Elkins Park, PA real estate market is currently a seller's market, with limited inventory and high demand driving up home prices. Here are some key factors that are currently impacting the Elkins Park real estate market:
Limited inventory: There is currently a shortage of homes for sale in Elkins Park, which is putting upward pressure on prices. This is due to a combination of factors, including low interest rates, a strong job market, and a desire for more space and amenities as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
High demand: Elkins Park is a desirable place to live due to its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and easy access to Philadelphia. This has led to high demand for homes in the area, with many homes receiving multiple offers and selling quickly.
Rising prices: The combination of low inventory and high demand has led to rising home prices in Elkins Park. As of writing this, the median home value in Elkins Park is currently around $275,000, which is up 8.5% from a year ago.
Historic homes: Elkins Park is known for its beautiful historic homes, which attract buyers who appreciate the character and charm of older homes. Many of these homes have been well-preserved and restored, adding to the overall appeal of the area.
Easy access to Philadelphia: Elkins Park is located just a few miles north of Philadelphia, making it an attractive location for those who work or play in the city. It offers easy access to all that Philadelphia has to offer, including museums, restaurants, and cultural events.
In conclusion, the Elkins Park real estate market is currently a seller's market with limited inventory, high demand, rising prices, beautiful historic homes, and easy access to Philadelphia. If you're considering buying or selling a home in Elkins Park, it's important to work with an experienced real estate agent like myself who can help you navigate the market and make informed decisions.
Contact me today for the most up to date Elkins Park real estate market report!
Overview
Elkins Park is an unincorporated community in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, United States. It is split between Cheltenham and Abington Townships in the northern suburbs of Philadelphia, which it borders along Cheltenham Avenue roughly 6 miles (9.7 km) from downtown. It is four station stops from Center City Philadelphia on Septa Regional Rail.
Historically Elkins Park was home to Philadelphia's early 20th century business elite, among them John B. Stetson, John Wanamaker, Henry W. Breyer, Jay Cooke, William Lukens Elkins and Peter A.B. Widener. In the later 20th century it was home to Ralph J. Roberts, co-founder of Comcast, as well as to the Gimbels family, founders of the department store chain.
Today it remains home to many gilded age mansions such as Lynnewood Hall, a 110-room, neoclassical estate, the Elkins Estate presently being restored, and the Henry West Breyer Sr. House, the former residence of the ice cream magnate which now serves as the Cheltenham Township Municipal building.
Elkins Park is notable for its varied architectural styles (among them: Modern, American colonial and Dutch colonial, Queen Anne, English Cottage and Tudor) its wealth of homes designed by renowned 19th and 20th century architects such as Horace Trumbauer, Louis Kahn and Robert A.M. Stern.
Elkins Park is served by SEPTA Regional Rail trains on the Glenside Line, Warminster Line, West Trenton Line and Lansdale/Doylestown Line at the Elkins Park station. The Jenkintown and Melrose Park stations are also found near the neighborhood of Elkins Park, and are served by the same regional rail lines. SEPTA bus routes 28, 55, 70 and 77 also provide service to Elkins Park. Toward the western end of Elkins Park is Pennsylvania Route 611 (Old York Road). In Elkins Park, Pennsylvania Route 73 runs along Township Line Road, mostly marking the border between Cheltenham and Abington townships.
Close to Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Acme, and Giant Food Stores.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
One of the many historic buildings in the area. Consecrated in 1861, this church is the oldest church in Cheltenham Township. Horace Traumbauer is responsible for some of the later additions to this church founded by Jay Cooke. In the sanctuary, 13 stained glass windows are from Tiffany Studios. Visit this church during one of the concert series which features music from different genres like classical, jazz, and gospel.
Fun Facts!
Ann Patchett's 2019 novel The Dutch House is primarily set in Elkins Park.
In the AMC period drama television series Mad Men, the character Betty Draper was raised in the "tiny Philadelphia suburb of Elkins Park, Pennsylvania". During the show's second season, Betty's father has a series of strokes, and is taken to "Elkins Park Hospital". This would have actually been the former Rolling Hill Hospital, which opened in 1953, and is now known as Moss Rehab and Einstein at Elkins Park, part of the Einstein Healthcare Network.
McKinley Neighborhood of Elkins Park
This little neighborhood of Elkins Park has its own fire station, ice cream shop (Mr. Sprinkles) with excellent ice cream cakes, and dive bar (McKinley’s Tavern) which also has karaoke nights with a fantastic host.
Beth Sholom Synagogue
Designed by the famous Frank Lloyd Wright, this national historic landmark was completed in 1959. This is the only synagogue designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and evokes the biblical Mt. Sinai in modern materials of concrete, aluminum, glass, and steel.
Notable People
Jay Ansill, composer and folk musician
Michael S. Brown, Nobel prize winner in medicine or physiology
Aaron Korsh, TV producer created Suits, wrote for Everybody Loves Raymond, attendee of Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markel
Douglas Feith, former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, grew up in Elkins Park
Marvin Harrison, NFL wide-receiver for the Indianapolis Colts
Lil Dicky, rapper and comedian
William Lukens Elkins, oil and transport magnate
William McIntire Elkins, rare book collector
Mark Levin, radio talk show host
Edgar Lee Masters, poet; spent his final years in Elkins Park
Mary Ellen Mark, photojournalist
Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel
Ralph J. Roberts, co-founder of Comcast; father of current Comcast chief executive officer, Brian L. Roberts
Jeffrey Solow, classical cellist and academic
Peter A. B. Widener, head of a wealthy and historically prominent family
Harry Elkins Widener, grandson of Peter A. B. Widener and namesake of Widener Library at Harvard University; born in Elkins Park and died on the RMS Titanic
Eleanor Elkins Widener, founder of Widener Library to honor her son
Bernard Wolfman, Dean of the University of Pennsylvania Law School
Raymond Perelman, American businessman and philanthropist
Brad Raider, American stage and screen actor, director, and producer. Richard Suckle, American film producer. Suckle was one of several producers nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture for the 2013 film American Hustle.
Jan Berenstain and Stan Berenstain, writers and illustrators best known for creating the children's book series The Berenstain Bears.
Ilene Chaiken, American television producer, director, writer, and founder of Little Chicken Productions.
Lynnewood Hall street view.
Elkins Park Schools
Elkins Park, PA is home to a variety of educational institutions that cater to the diverse needs of its residents. The community boasts a strong commitment to education, providing access to both public and private schools. Here are some notable schools in Elkins Park:
1. Cheltenham School District: The Cheltenham School District serves Elkins Park and the surrounding areas. It encompasses several elementary schools, such as Myers Elementary, Elkins Park School, and Wyncote Elementary. Cheltenham Middle School and Cheltenham High School provide education for older students. The district focuses on academic excellence, offering a wide range of programs and extracurricular activities.
2. Salus University: Located in Elkins Park, Salus University is a renowned institution for health sciences education. It offers programs in optometry, audiology, physician assistant studies, speech-language pathology, and more. Salus University is committed to providing quality healthcare education and clinical services to the community.
3. Perelman Jewish Day School: As a private Jewish day school, Perelman Jewish Day School offers education from preschool through middle school. The school provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines Jewish studies, general studies, and extracurricular activities. It promotes Jewish values, academic excellence, and a strong sense of community.
4. Bishop McDevitt High School: A private Catholic high school, Bishop McDevitt offers a faith-based education to students in grades 9-12. With a focus on spiritual development and academic achievement, the school aims to prepare students for higher education and a life of service.
5. Elkins Park School: Elkins Park School is a public elementary school within the Cheltenham School District. It serves students from kindergarten through sixth grade, providing a nurturing and engaging learning environment. The school emphasizes academic growth, social-emotional development, and community involvement.
These are just a few examples of the educational opportunities available in Elkins Park, PA. The community values education and offers a range of options to meet the needs of its residents, whether they prefer public or private schooling or seek specialized programs in specific fields of study.
Elkins Park History
Ah, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, a place steeped in history and charm. Nestled in Montgomery County, just north of Philadelphia, this captivating community has a rich and diverse past that dates back centuries.
Originally inhabited by the Lenni Lenape Native Americans, the area was later settled by European colonists in the late 17th century. The land that would become Elkins Park was initially part of the vast holdings of William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania. Over time, it transitioned from agricultural use to a suburban enclave as Philadelphia expanded.
One of the defining figures in Elkins Park's history is William Lukens Elkins, a prominent businessman and philanthropist. Elkins purchased a vast tract of land in the late 19th century and transformed it into a thriving residential community. He envisioned Elkins Park as an elegant retreat, attracting wealthy Philadelphians seeking respite from the bustling city.
Elkins Park became known for its grand mansions, adorned with stunning architectural styles ranging from Victorian to Colonial Revival. These opulent homes served as symbols of wealth and refinement. Some notable examples include the iconic Elstowe Manor and the Grey Towers Castle, which still stands as an exquisite landmark today.
The community also played a role in the development of transportation. The prestigious Pennsylvania Railroad's main line passed through Elkins Park, connecting the area to Philadelphia and other major cities. This accessibility fueled the growth of the community and made it an attractive place to live for commuters.
Elkins Park was not only a residential haven but also a cultural hub. The renowned architect Louis Kahn, known for his distinctive modernist designs, resided and worked in Elkins Park. He created remarkable structures such as the Fisher House and the Erdman Hall, which showcase his innovative approach to architecture.
In addition to its architectural heritage, Elkins Park boasts a vibrant artistic and intellectual community. It became home to several prestigious institutions, including the Tyler School of Art, a renowned art school affiliated with Temple University. The neighborhood also houses the renowned Beth Sholom Synagogue, a National Historic Landmark designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Over the years, Elkins Park has evolved while preserving its historical charm. The community maintains a strong sense of community spirit and hosts various events and festivals that celebrate its heritage. Its tree-lined streets, picturesque parks, and diverse population make it a captivating place to explore and call home.
So, whether you're strolling along its historic avenues, admiring its architectural marvels, or immersing yourself in its cultural offerings, Elkins Park offers a captivating journey through time and a glimpse into Pennsylvania's vibrant past.
How did Elkins Park get its name?
Elkins Park, PA derived its name from a prominent figure in its history, William Lukens Elkins. As I mentioned earlier, Elkins was a successful businessman and philanthropist who played a pivotal role in shaping the community.
In the late 19th century, Elkins acquired a significant portion of land in the area that would eventually become Elkins Park. Recognizing its potential as a suburban retreat, he developed the land into an elegant residential community. Elkins' vision was to create a picturesque enclave that would attract affluent Philadelphians seeking a respite from the city.
To honor his significant contributions and as a testament to his impact on the community's development, the area came to be known as Elkins Park. The name served not only as a geographical identifier but also as a symbol of the area's transformation under Elkins' vision.
Since its establishment, Elkins Park has grown and evolved, but its name continues to pay homage to the man who played a crucial role in shaping its history and character. Today, Elkins Park stands as a reminder of William Lukens Elkins' enduring legacy in this charming Pennsylvania neighborhood.
Restaurants
Alexander’s Cafe- Cute restaurant with homemade European and American food, pierogi, stuffed cabbage, also salads, pastas, steaks etc.
Paris Baguette- Pain au chocolat and tarts! YUM!
Goat House Creamery- Ice cream and coffee! They carry La Colombe :)
Marco Polo- One of my favorite lunch spots! Delicious wine and dessert selection. Can’t go wrong with any of their parmesans!
Tiffin- British style Indian food. One of my top Indian take out choices! Dine in and byob. Try the mango lassi, it is a mango yogurt drink and especially kind if you like spicier food but your body doesn’t.
HMart- this Korean food market has a food court that is awesome. If you love food like Kimchi, Bulgogi, and Samgyeopsal- definitely head to the HMart food court.
Resources for Elkins Park Residents
Elkins Park residents have access to various resources to enhance their daily lives and stay connected with the community. Here are some helpful websites and resources for Elkins Park residents:
1. Elkins Park Civic Association: The Elkins Park Civic Association website (elkinspark.org) is a valuable resource for community news, events, and updates. It provides information on local initiatives, neighborhood organizations, and ways to get involved in community projects.
2. Cheltenham Township: The official website of Cheltenham Township (cheltenhamtownship.org) offers a wealth of information on local government services, departments, and resources. It includes information on township events, public safety, permits, and community programs.
3. Cheltenham School District: The Cheltenham School District website (cheltenham.org) is a helpful resource for parents and students. It provides information on school calendars, district policies, academic programs, and extracurricular activities.
4. Elkins Park Free Library: The Elkins Park Free Library (elkinsparklibrary.org) is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of services, including access to books, digital resources, educational programs, and community events. The library's website provides information on its services, hours of operation, and upcoming events.
5. Elkins Park Business Association: The Elkins Park Business Association website (elkinsparkbusiness.com) showcases local businesses and highlights the diverse range of services, shops, and restaurants available in Elkins Park. It's a great resource for discovering local businesses and staying informed about promotions and events.
6. Salus University: Salus University's website (salus.edu) provides information on the university's programs, clinics, and services. It serves as a resource for residents seeking eye care, audiology services, speech therapy, and other healthcare needs.
These websites offer a starting point for Elkins Park residents to explore and access various resources, stay informed about community events, and connect with local organizations. Additionally, social media platforms like Facebook and Nextdoor can also provide community-specific information and opportunities for engagement.
Ask me about buying, selling, and renting property in Elkins Park.
Work with an experienced Real Estate Agent to represent you buying a home in Elkins Park, selling a home in Elkins Park, or finding your next rental in Elkins Park. Take it from someone who knows and understands the community and market and can help navigate the complex township rules and regulations to property sales in Elkins Park. Contact Shaina McAndrews about real estate in Elkins Park today!
