Merion Station, PA
County: Montgomery
History
Merion Station is an unincorporated community located in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. It is part of Lower Merion Township and is located about eight miles west of downtown Philadelphia. The history of Merion Station dates back to the late 17th century when William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, granted a large tract of land in the area to Welsh Quakers.
The Welsh settlers arrived in the late 1600s and established a farming community in what is now known as Lower Merion Township. They named the area "Merioneth" after the county in Wales they came from. Over time, the area developed into a prosperous agricultural region, with the main crops being corn, wheat, and potatoes.
In the late 19th century, the Pennsylvania Railroad established a train stop in the area, which eventually became known as "Merion Station." The railroad connection played a crucial role in the community's growth, as it made commuting to Philadelphia much easier and more convenient. This led to an influx of wealthy Philadelphians who built grand estates and summer homes in Merion Station.
During the early 20th century, Merion Station experienced significant development and became an affluent residential area. Many renowned architects, including Frank Lloyd Wright and Horace Trumbauer, designed homes in the community. Notable residents included notable figures such as publisher Cyrus Curtis, journalist Walter Lippmann, and actress Grace Kelly.
Today, Merion Station is known for its beautiful residential neighborhoods with a mix of historic homes and modern developments. It continues to be a sought-after location due to its proximity to Philadelphia and its charming suburban atmosphere. The community is also home to prestigious educational institutions such as Saint Joseph's University and the Haverford College Arboretum.
Overall, the history of Merion Station is deeply intertwined with the settlement of Welsh Quakers, the development of agriculture, and the expansion of transportation networks, ultimately contributing to its present-day character as an affluent and desirable community.
Attractions
Saint Joseph's University
A renowned university known for its academic programs and sports teams.
Merion Tribute House
A historic venue that hosts weddings, parties, and other events.
Merion Golf Club
A prestigious golf club that has hosted numerous major golf championships.
Ardmore Music Hall
A live music venue that features a variety of concerts and performances.
Barnes Foundation
An art museum that houses an extensive collection of impressionist, post-impressionist, and early modernist artwork.
Suburban Square
A vibrant shopping center with a mix of upscale stores, restaurants, and boutiques.
Haverford College
A liberal arts college known for its beautiful campus and top-notch education.
Philadelphia Cricket Club
One of the oldest cricket clubs in the United States, offering tennis, squash, and dining facilities.
Bryn Mawr Film Institute
A non-profit movie theater that showcases art-house, independent, and classic films.
The Barnes Arboretum
A 12-acre arboretum featuring various plant collections, gardens, and walking trails.
Climate
Merion Station, Pennsylvania, has a humid subtropical climate. It experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter.
In spring, temperatures in Merion Station range from mild to warm, with average highs in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15 to 25 degrees Celsius). However, it can still have cooler days with temperatures in the 50s Fahrenheit (10 to 15 degrees Celsius). Spring is generally a wet season with more frequent rainfall.
Summer in Merion Station is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (27 to 35 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves with temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) are not uncommon. The region also experiences occasional thunderstorms during the summer months.
Fall in Merion Station is characterized by mild temperatures and changing foliage. Average highs in the fall range from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15 to 25 degrees Celsius), while the nights tend to be cooler. This season is generally drier compared to spring and summer, with fewer rainfall events.
Winter in Merion Station brings chilly temperatures and occasional snowfall. The average highs during the winter months range from the 30s to 40s Fahrenheit (around 0 to 5 degrees Celsius), and overnight lows can drop below freezing. Snowfall varies each year, but on average, Merion Station receives around 20 inches (50 centimeters) of snow annually.
Overall, Merion Station experiences a moderate climate with relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. However, it is important to note that climate conditions can vary from year to year, so it is always advisable to check the current weather forecast for accurate information.
Neighborhoods
Merion Station, Pennsylvania is a small unincorporated community located in Montgomery County, just outside of Philadelphia. It is known for its rich history, beautiful residential areas, and close-knit community. While Merion Station itself is relatively small, there are several neighboring communities that contribute to the overall charm and appeal of the area.
Merion Station
The heart of the area, Merion Station is a peaceful and picturesque residential neighborhood. It features beautiful tree-lined streets, large historic homes, and a sense of community. The Merion Friends Meeting House, built in 1695, is one of the oldest structures in the community.
Merion
Adjacent to Merion Station is the neighborhood of Merion, which is slightly larger and more commercialized. It offers a mix of residential properties, shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Merion is also home to Merion Mercy Academy, a well-regarded all-girls Catholic high school.
Bala Cynwyd
Located to the south of Merion Station, Bala Cynwyd is a larger community that offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. It is known for its thriving business district, including Bala Cynwyd Shopping Center, which features a variety of stores, cafes, and restaurants. Bala Cynwyd is also home to the historic Bala Cynwyd Library.
Wynnewood
To the east of Merion Station, Wynnewood is a suburban neighborhood with a mix of residential areas and commercial developments. It is home to the popular Wynnewood Shopping Center, which offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Wynnewood is also known for its proximity to prestigious Lankenau Medical Center.
Ardmore
Just south of Merion Station, Ardmore is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood with a mix of residential, commercial, and retail properties. It has a thriving downtown area known as the Ardmore Business District, offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, theaters, and nightlife options. Ardmore is also home to Suburban Square, a historic outdoor shopping center.
Overall, the neighborhoods surrounding Merion Station offer residents a variety of amenities, including shopping centers, dining options, educational institutions, and recreational facilities. The area is well-connected to Philadelphia and other neighboring communities, making it a desirable place to live for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban conveniences.