For many years, Philadelphia was home to an incredible number of farms. However, over time, agriculture declined, and maintaining these farms became increasingly difficult and expensive. This led to a decrease in farms not just in Philadelphia, but elsewhere too. Yet, some dedicated individuals poured their hearts into farming, no matter the challenges. Fox Chase Farm is one such place, operating for decades. Learn more at philadelphia.name.
How the Farm Came to Be
The story began way back in 1683, when William Penn sold 500 acres of land to William Stanley. Stanley, originally from London, named his new acquisition “Stanley’s Mount.” However, he didn’t enjoy his personal mount for long; he passed away in 1690. But even that wasn’t the sole reason for the property’s change of hands. William Stanley likely mismanaged his finances, as he died heavily in debt.
So, after Stanley’s death in 1690, Peter Baynton purchased the mount. The new owner decided to divide the large parcel into two smaller ones, each 250 acres, situated on opposite sides of Pennypack Creek. Realizing he didn’t need so much land, Baynton sold the southern tract to Edward McVey. The McVey family held onto it for over a century, transforming the property into an estate during their ownership.
The Wistar’s Working Farm
Over the years, the McVeys sold over 100 acres of their land to Thomas Wistar. He immediately set about constructing a new stone mansion, later known as “Stanley.” This structure was a gift to his son, Thomas Wistar Jr., and his wife, and today it’s known as the “Homestead.” Later, another estate emerged, intended for Thomas III. Over time, that building became the modern white farmhouse.
Thomas Wistar Jr. was quite an active politician. During President Grant’s time, Wistar spent most of his time on Native American affairs and was frequently out west. His absence was understandable, as he strove for justice for Native Americans after the Civil War. For this reason, his son, Thomas Wistar III, often managed the farm.
But the farm didn’t get its “happily ever after” due to tragedy. In 1863, young Thomas III died prematurely. All his farming tools were put up for auction, and his father lived out his final years at his “Stanley” estate.
Wistar Jr. realized no one would be left to care for the property. So, in his will, he stipulated that his property and his son’s beloved farm be sold. The land totaled 102 acres. The buyer was Wistar Jr.’s neighbor, who opted not to directly manage the land but instead lease it. His own son became the tenant until 1888.
Between 1888 and 1901, the land had no fewer than four owners. It’s believed they were interested in large-scale development, but fortunately for the current owners, that idea never materialized.
An Asylum and a Gentleman’s Farm
In the early 1900s, the entire 102-acre property was acquired by an asylum. Surprisingly, the farm was exceptionally well-maintained and remained in ideal condition throughout this period. Workers employed the latest agricultural methods, and every animal on the property was well-fed and cared for.
The farm raised cows, leading to mass milk production. Over time, workers repaired the mansion and added attics. A well on the property was used to cool the milk.
The asylum’s ownership didn’t last long, as George Lorimer purchased the land in 1917.
Butler’s Gentleman’s Farm
The farm’s fate shifted once again in 1939 when Harold Butler acquired the same 102 acres. He decided to use the property as a gentleman’s farm. Two managers, Frank and Erwin, helped him maintain the estate. Frank left the farm in 1955, while Erwin, with his family’s help, managed to keep it afloat until 1983.
During Butler’s ownership, the farm housed Hereford cattle and Angora goats. Additionally, sheep lived in the old sheepfold. However, in 1969, the situation changed slightly as the owner’s heir sold 83 acres of the land. A New York company purchased the parcel. Yet, the entire Glensy family received permission to remain on the farm and continue maintaining it, just as they had for years.
Modern Day Destiny
The property has endured many transformations to reach its current state. In 1972, there were plans to develop 884 apartments on the site. A foundation for new townhouses was even laid behind the main homestead.
But fortunately, in 1981, the Saul Agricultural School leased the entire farm property. From that point on, the farm began to thrive again. It hosts farmer’s markets and seasonal festivals, a support group was founded, along with summer tours and workshops. In 1994, the property transferred to Abraham Lincoln High School, facilitated by a gardening and natural history program.
The “Friends of Fox Chase Farm” organization hired specialists in historical preservation. And in 2005, the farm was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making the area even more appealing to visitors.