Discover the Frankford Avenue Bridge
"For 273 years, the little stone bridge that carries Frankford Ave. across Pennypack Creek has been doing its humble job with a minimum of attention..."
Situated in the Holmesburg section of Northeast Philadelphia, the Frankford Avenue Bridge might seem like just another road crossing at first glance. But this unassuming structure holds a record-breaking claim to fame: it’s the oldest surviving roadway bridge in the United States!
Standing tall and strong for over 300 years, this structure has earned a reputation as a “civil engineering masterpiece”—and for good reason. From its humble stone arches to its reinforced and widened structure, this bridge has weathered the test of time, surviving while many of its younger, flashier counterparts have crumbled or been decommissioned.
The bridge also has a whole host of different names, such as the King’s Highway Bridge, the Pennypack Bridge, and Holmesburg Bridge. Today, it spans 73 feet in length and stands as a testament to the skill and determination of its builders.
The History of the Frankford Avenue Bridge
A Philadelphian Creek with a Legacy
The Frankford Avenue Bridge stretches across Pennypack Creek, a waterway that has quietly shaped the history of southeastern Pennsylvania. Its name, borrowed from the Lenape language, translates to “deep, dead water” or “water without much current.”
While Pennypack Creek might not look like much today, it’s the reason the bridge exists. Back in the 1600s, travelers faced the challenging task of fording this creek as they journeyed along the King’s Highway, the first major road connecting Philadelphia to northern cities like New York. Enter the Frankford Avenue Bridge, built in 1697, to provide a safer and more reliable passage.
Connecting the Colonies
Let’s rewind the clock to 1683 when Pennsylvania’s founder, William Penn, spotted a problem. His grand vision for the burgeoning city of Philadelphia needed a solution—connecting his mansion and the city across Pennypack Creek. Penn appealed to the English Court at Upland, and voila, the seed for the Frankford Avenue Bridge was planted.
Penn wasn’t just dreaming of one bridge, though. A broader plan mandated bridges across all creeks and rivers along the King’s Highway, the colonial life line that stretched from Delaware to Boston.
The General Assembly passed a law requiring these structures to be completed in 18 months. This wasn’t a free-for-all; under orders from King Charles II, the male locals were expected to roll up their sleeves or cough up funds, or else face a 20-shilling fine—early crowdfunding, colonial style!
Opening the Bridge
"The men built well."
The bridge officially opened for business in 1697, a humble 73 feet long and 18 feet wide, just enough for two horse-drawn carriages to squeeze past each other. Built with sturdy stone arches, it was a marvel for its time.
Penn's vision became a reality, and the King’s Highway Bridge became a crucial artery, connecting Philadelphia to other colonies and helping the city grow into a busy hub.
Crossing the Frankford Avenue Bridge
Bridge Traffic
In its early days, traffic was more of a trickle than a stampede. Things picked up by the 1720s as travelers began using it more regularly. By the mid-1700s, Philadelphia's route to Frankford became a hive of activity, prompting a bridge widening in 1740.
Interesting fact: the first stagecoach service between Philadelphia and New York launched in 1756 and crossed this very bridge. Initially a three-day journey, the trip was cut down to one day by 1783, thanks to the aptly named “Flying Machine.”
The bridge wasn’t just for everyday traffic—it witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in history. John Adams and the Continental Congress crossed it in 1774, en route to Philadelphia to kickstart the American Revolution. And who can forget April 1775, when an express rider thundered across the bridge with news of the Battle of Lexington?
Fast-forward to 1789, and George Washington made his own grand crossing on the way to his presidential inauguration in New York City. If bridges could talk, this one would have quite the guest list.
19th and 20th-Century Improvements to the Frankford Avenue Bridge
The 19th and 20th centuries brought big changes. By 1803, a toll booth appeared on the south end, helping fund maintenance and filling the pockets of the Frankford and Bristol Turnpike Company.
The bridge underwent a major facelift in 1893, widened to accommodate trolley cars as Philadelphia embraced modern transportation. Another upgrade came in 1950 to fit automobiles, turning the colonial thoroughfare into a modern commuter route.
Becoming a National Treasure
Recognizing its significance, the bridge snagged some prestigious accolades. In 1970, the American Society of Civil Engineers designated it a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
By 1988, it earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Preservation groups like the Friends of Pennypack Park have worked tirelessly to protect it, even throwing a 300th-birthday bash for the bridge in 1997.
The Frankford Avenue Bridge Today
Today, the Frankford Avenue Bridge remains a vital part of Philadelphia’s infrastructure, usually carrying an estimated 14,000 vehicles daily as part of the U.S. Route 13. Restoration projects, like the $3.2 million PennDOT effort in 2018, have helped keep it in tip-top shape.
"A bridge is not just stone and mortar; it is a passageway by which people connect."
William Penn’s descendant, speaking at the bridge’s 300th birthday celebration.
This quote truly embodies the essence of the Frankford Avenue Bridge — not just a piece of infrastructure, but a vital part of Philadelphia’s ongoing story.
Important note: the bridge is currently in the midst of further renovation work so is closed to traffic.
Visiting the Frankford Avenue Bridge
When you're in the area, you’ll quickly realize that the Frankford Avenue Bridge isn't the only thing worth seeing. There’s a whole world of adventure waiting nearby, especially if you love nature, history, or art.
Pennypack Park:
Pennypack Park is the perfect spot to stretch your legs. With over 1,600 acres of parkland it contains trails, meadows, and peaceful creek views. Here you can enjoy a hike, a cycle, or just relaxing by the water. The park also features historical buildings and plenty of spots for a picnic, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon after checking out the bridge.
Betsy Ross House:
For another little slice of American history, head south to the Betsy Ross House. Located about 10 miles from the bridge, this historical gem is where it’s believed that Betsy Ross stitched together the first American flag. Touring the house offers a peek into the life of one of America’s most famous women, and it's a great way to learn more about Philadelphia’s rich revolutionary history.
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens:
If you’re into art, then Philadelphia's Magic Gardens should definitely be on your list. About 15 miles from the bridge, this unique non-profit space is filled with stunning folk art and mosaic creations. You can take a guided tour through the gardens, where the stories behind each piece are just as captivating as the art itself.
Explore Beyond the Frankford Avenue Bridge with CityDays
While the Frankford Avenue Bridge and its surroundings offer plenty to do, why not take your exploration of Philadelphia to the next level? With CityDays’ scavenger and treasure hunt tours, you can uncover hidden gems across the city — and the world!
These tours are designed for team-building exercises, making them perfect for groups looking to bond while discovering local spots in a fun and interactive way.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, CityDays provides a unique way to experience the city through challenges, puzzles, and trivia, all while exploring the best places Philadelphia has to offer.
Who knows? You might even end up near the Frankford Avenue Bridge, uncovering new facts and experiencing the area in ways you never expected.
So, next time you're near the Frankford Avenue Bridge, make sure to plan some time to explore the other historical, natural, and artistic treasures that surround this Philly landmark.
And for a fun, team-building adventure, CityDays’ scavenger hunts will add an extra spark to your day!
