Glen Foerd
| Glen Foerd on the Delaware | |
|---|---|
| Type | Historic estate / Cultural venue |
| Location | Torresdale (Delaware River) |
| Coordinates | 40.0820,-74.9930 |
| Area | 18 acres |
| Established | 1850s (estate); public since 1980s |
| Operated by | Glen Foerd Conservation Corporation |
| Features | Victorian mansion, Delaware River frontage, gardens, events |
| Hours | Grounds by appointment; events per schedule |
| Transit | SEPTA Regional Rail to Torresdale; bus 58 |
| Website | Official Site |
Glen Foerd on the Delaware is an 18-acre riverfront estate in the Torresdale section of Northeast Philadelphia, featuring a magnificent Victorian mansion with spectacular Delaware River views. The estate represents one of the few remaining "River Road" mansions that once lined the Delaware above the city, offering a glimpse of 19th-century country estate life along with cultural programming and event space.[1]
Glen Foerd preserves both architectural heritage and irreplaceable Delaware River frontage.
History[edit | edit source]
River Road Estates[edit | edit source]
The Delaware River above Philadelphia was once lined with estates:
- Wealthy Philadelphians' country retreats
- River transportation access
- Scenic and cooling in summer
- Most now demolished
Construction[edit | edit source]
Glen Foerd developed over time:
- 1850s: Original house built
- 1902-1903: Major expansion by Tonner family
- Victorian Gothic architecture
- Elaborate interiors
Charles Macalester Tonner[edit | edit source]
Charles Macalester Tonner transformed the estate:
- Textile manufacturer
- Major 1902-1903 renovation
- Current mansion appearance
- Lavish entertaining
Florence Tonner[edit | edit source]
Florence Tonner (1874-1973):
- Lived at Glen Foerd for decades
- Preserved the estate
- Planned for public use
- Died at age 98
Public Access[edit | edit source]
- 1980s: Estate became public
- Nonprofit conservation
- Cultural programming
- Preservation ongoing
Features[edit | edit source]
The Mansion[edit | edit source]
Victorian Gothic architecture:
- Elaborate exterior
- Period interiors
- Original furnishings
- Grand spaces
- Delaware River orientation
Delaware River Frontage[edit | edit source]
Rare waterfront access:
- Lawn to river's edge
- Dock and waterfront
- Spectacular views
- Unique Philadelphia setting
Gardens[edit | edit source]
- Historic landscape
- Mature trees
- Ornamental plantings
- River views
Carriage House[edit | edit source]
- Historic outbuilding
- Event space
- Support facilities
Programs[edit | edit source]
Cultural Events[edit | edit source]
Glen Foerd hosts:
- Concerts and performances
- Art exhibitions
- Lectures and programs
- Seasonal events
Private Events[edit | edit source]
- Weddings and receptions
- Corporate events
- Private parties
- Photo shoots
Tours[edit | edit source]
- Mansion tours (scheduled)
- Grounds tours
- Special access programs
Visiting[edit | edit source]
Access[edit | edit source]
- By appointment for tours
- Events per schedule
- Check website for programs
Getting There[edit | edit source]
Location: 5001 Grant Avenue, Torresdale
By Public Transit:
- SEPTA Regional Rail to Torresdale Station
- SEPTA Bus 58
By Car:
- Parking on grounds
- Near Grant Avenue
Tips[edit | edit source]
- Check website for tour and event schedule
- The riverfront is spectacular
- Events are the best way to experience the property
- Consider becoming a member
Significance[edit | edit source]
Glen Foerd matters because:
- Rare surviving River Road estate
- Delaware River frontage
- Victorian architecture preservation
- Cultural programming venue
- Irreplaceable historic resource
Nearby[edit | edit source]
- Torresdale — Surrounding neighborhood
- Delaware River — Waterfront
- Northeast Philadelphia — Area
- Pennypack on the Delaware — Nearby park
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ "Glen Foerd on the Delaware". Glen Foerd Conservation Corporation. Retrieved December 30, 2025