![]() This designation helps guard the district’s historic character by requiring review of projects according to zoning and historic preservation standards.įor nearly sixty years, the SHCA has responded to challenges facing our community with a commitment to enhance the quality of life enjoyed by those who live and work here. Under the leadership of the SHCA, Society Hill was designated a historic district by the Philadelphia Historical Commission in 1999. ![]() ![]() In 1971, the Society Hill Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places however, that designation offered no protection to prevent inappropriate exterior alterations or unnecessary demolitions. Articles of incorporation were filed with the Philadelphia Common Pleas Court and the decree granting the requested charter was issued on January 10, 1967. On April 22, 1965, a joint general meeting of the members of the two organizations was held and the Society Hill Civic Association (SHCA) was born. The Society Hill Civic Association was established in 1965 as the result of a merger of two pre-existing civic associations, the Society Hill Area Residents Association (SHARA) and the Home Owners and Residents Association (HORA). History of the Society Hill Civic Association Many Philadelphians, including elected officials, public administrators, and private citizens, contributed to the restoration of historic buildings that tell the story of an earlier society while adapting to contemporary needs. The rebirth of Society Hill began in the 1950s and became a national model for neighborhood renewal. By the mid-20th century it had become a mix of neglected 18th- and 19th-century houses interspersed with factories and warehouses. Within this context stands a broad spectrum of architectural styles, ranging from modest Colonial dwellings through elegant Georgian, Federal, and Greek Revival houses to modern high-rises.Īt the time of the American Revolution, Society Hill was one of the most desirable residential sections of the prosperous city, however, the neighborhood began to decline. The streets and blocks reveal the perseverance and practicality of Penn’s plan of a grid and square for the city – a plan already modified by events before 1700, yet still adaptable to mid-20th century planning concepts and goals. Society Hill also occupies an extraordinary place in the history of architecture, urban planning, development, culture, commerce, and religion. Because the company’s flag flew on the high ground above Dock Creek, the surrounding area became known as “the Society’s Hill.” This part of William Penn’s 17th-century “greene Country Towne” was owned by the Free Society of Traders, a London development company. Society Hill is where America’s past meets the future, where in one square mile a great experiment in liberty was launched.
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