Clifton Heights, PA
County: Delaware
History
Clifton Heights is a borough in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, located about ten miles west of the city of Philadelphia. The area was originally settled by Europeans in the late 17th century and was primarily a farming community. In the early 19th century, an influx of German immigrants began to arrive in the region.
The borough itself was officially incorporated in 1885. It was named after the Clifton House, a prominent hotel that once stood in the area. The hotel was a popular destination for vacationers and day-trippers from Philadelphia who would visit to enjoy the surrounding countryside.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Clifton Heights underwent significant development. The construction of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Line in the 1850s brought improved transportation to the area. This led to the establishment of numerous factories and businesses along the railroad corridor, bringing jobs and economic growth to Clifton Heights.
The borough witnessed a surge in population around the turn of the 20th century, fueled by the growth of manufacturing and the accessibility to Philadelphia. Many of the new residents were European immigrants, particularly Irish and Italian. The borough's population reached its peak in the 1920s and 1930s.
Throughout its history, Clifton Heights has been a closely-knit community with strong ties to its residents. It was primarily a residential area, with a downtown district that provided essential services and local businesses to cater to the needs of the population. The borough also had several schools, places of worship, and community organizations that played an important role in the development of its social fabric.
In recent times, Clifton Heights has faced some challenges as industries declined, and suburbanization led to the growth of neighboring communities. However, the borough has continued to maintain its unique identity and sense of community. Efforts have been made to revitalize the downtown area, encourage small businesses, and preserve the historical heritage of the borough.
Today, Clifton Heights remains a vibrant borough with a variety of residential, commercial, and recreational offerings. Its rich history, close proximity to Philadelphia, and strong community spirit make it an attractive place to live and visit.
Attractions
Clifton Heights Park
A local park with walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields.
Primos-Secane-Westbrook Park
Another nearby park with amenities such as basketball courts, baseball fields, and a playground.
The Tower Theater
Located just outside of Clifton Heights in Upper Darby, it is a historic music venue that hosts a variety of concerts and performances.
Strath Haven High School Stadium
A football stadium that hosts local sporting events and community activities.
Downtown Clifton Heights
The downtown area of Clifton Heights offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.
The Carousel at Stonehurst Hills
A classic carousel located nearby that offers rides for children and families.
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum
A short drive from Clifton Heights, this wildlife refuge is a great place for birdwatching, hiking, and enjoying nature.
Delaware County Veterans Memorial
Located in Newtown Square, it is dedicated to honoring local veterans from Delaware County.
Buley Library
A public library in Clifton Heights that offers a range of books, activities, and resources for residents.
Pittsburgh Ultra Arcade
An arcade and gaming center in Clifton Heights, providing an enjoyable experience for gamers of all ages.
Climate
Clifton Heights, PA, situated in Delaware County, experiences a humid subtropical climate. The region generally has warm summers and cold winters with moderate rainfall throughout the year.
Summers in Clifton Heights are typically warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to high 20s Celsius). July, the warmest month, has an average high temperature of around 87°F (31°C), while nights are moderately cooler. Thunderstorms are relatively common during summers, bringing heavy rainfall at times.
Winters in Clifton Heights are cold, with average temperatures ranging from the high 20s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (around -2 to 7°C). January is the coldest month, with average highs of around 40°F (4°C) and lows dipping into the mid-20s°F (around -4°C). Snowfall is common during winter, and the area receives approximately 22 inches (56 cm) of snow annually.
Spring and autumn tend to be mild with moderate temperatures. Spring brings gradual warming, and temperatures range from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit (around 4 to 18°C). Autumn temperatures start to cool down, ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit (around 4 to 18°C) once again, as the foliage begins to change colors.
Overall, Clifton Heights, PA experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, with warm and humid summers, cold winters with snowfall, and mild transitional seasons.
Neighborhoods
Clifton Heights is a borough located in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. It is a relatively small area with a population of approximately 6,700 residents. While it may not have as many distinct neighborhoods as larger cities, it still offers a unique character and a few notable areas. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Clifton Heights:
Downtown Clifton Heights
The heart of the borough, downtown Clifton Heights, is a commercial and cultural center. It features a mix of small businesses, shops, cafes, and restaurants. The downtown area has a vibrant atmosphere and is often bustling with locals and visitors.
Westbrook Park
Located in the eastern part of Clifton Heights, Westbrook Park is a residential neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and apartment buildings. It offers a quiet and family-friendly environment, with several community parks and playgrounds for recreation.
Primos
Situated in the western part of Clifton Heights, Primos is a suburban neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It is known for its tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and small shopping centers. The area offers a peaceful and tight-knit community feel.
University City
Though not officially a part of Clifton Heights, University City is situated nearby and is home to several educational institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. This bustling district is rich in cultural diversity, with numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Each neighborhood in Clifton Heights has its own distinct charm and appeal, making the borough an attractive place to live for people seeking a tight-knit community with convenient access to amenities and nearby urban areas.