Fox Chase, Philadelphia

Worldwide, this area on the outskirts of Philadelphia is best known for the cancer treatment center: The Fox Chase Cancer Center. Many discoveries have occurred at this facility founded in 1904 including: Hepatitis B virus and vaccine as well as the first mouse model of malignancy. In 2004, a Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to researcher Irwin Rose. Presently, there are talks of an affiliation with Temple University.

The origins of Fox Chase, however, are located in its name. During the Colonial Period, hunters actually chased foxes to bring back game to the settled portions of the city.

There is a suburban-like feel to the neighborhood that has boundaries which include: Fillmore Street, Hartel Avenue, and Hasbrook Avenue in the Northeast. Jeanes Hospital is also a major facility servicing the area. Burholme Park provides amble recreation space.

The area has experienced a major decline in property values by some 11 percent according to a recent survey by the Philadelphia Inquirer.
There are two Regional Rail Stations however having a car would be useful.

I’m originally from the Midwest so I appreciate areas that remind me of home even if it’s in the slightest way. The neighborhood known as Fox Chase gives me that sort of hometown longing. Nestled in the far northeast corner of Philadelphia, Fox Chase gets its name from the regular fox hunting that occurred on its vast grounds.

Fox chase was the land of choice for the wealthy and much of this can be seen by the architecture in the homes. Historic landmarks such as Ryerss Mansion which holds many artifacts and antiques that belonged to the Ryerss family is one of major examples of this rich history.

Also located in Fox Chase is the farm of the same name Fox Chase Farm which is the only farm still active in Philadelphia County. It was purchased by the city in the 1970s and is now run by volunteers and used as an educational farm for the school district.

Another appealing aspect of Fox Chase is the nearby parks such as Pennypack Park whose creeks run through Fox Chase. There are a lot of great trails, picnic areas and playground within the area that make it a great spot for families and couple or anyone who just wants to get away from the fast pace of the city. Getting there by bus takes some time but it’s doable and definitely worth it.

Fox Chase is a neighborhood located in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. It received its name after the affluent citizens who resided there who enjoyed fox hunting. The neighborhood is bound by Pennypack Creek to the north, Filmore Street to the west, Township Line Road to the south and Dungan Road to the east.
It is one of the more attractive areas of the city to live in because it offers both urban and suburban characteristics. There are many large homes located in Fox Chase that are ideal for families with children. Fox Chase offers moderately expensive home prices, but it is well worth it.
There are many beautiful parks located in this neighborhood including Pennypack Park. Pennypack Park features forests, meadows and wetlands and runs from Pine Road all the way to the Delaware River. Some of the recreational activities that can be enjoyed at this park include horseback riding, hiking and biking. The park also has many playgrounds that are perfect for kids.
Fox Chase is also home to Fox Chase Farm, the only remaining active farm in Philadelphia.
There are many public transportation services available in Fox Chase including several SEPTA bus routes and the Fox Chase Line regional rail service which terminates near Rhawn Street and Oxford Avenue.