Norwood, PA
County: Delaware
History
Norwood, Pennsylvania is a borough located in Delaware County, in the southeastern part of the state. It was originally part of Ridley Township until its incorporation as a separate borough on January 1, 1902. The history of Norwood dates back to the 19th century when it was primarily a rural area with a small population.
The area that is now Norwood was originally settled by Irish immigrants in the early 1800s. In the mid-1800s, the Pennsylvania Railroad constructed a line through the region, which brought increased economic development and population growth. The construction of the railroad helped transform Norwood into a more industrialized community.
The borough's name, Norwood, is believed to have been derived from the combination of two words, "north" and "woods." This was due to its location north of Ridley Creek and its heavily wooded areas. The plentiful availability of wood and proximity to transportation made Norwood an attractive area for industries such as lumber mills and ironworks.
By the late 1800s, Norwood had become home to several industrial establishments, including a cotton mill, a carpet mill, a paper mill, and a lumberyard. These industries provided significant employment opportunities for local residents and contributed to the growth of the borough.
In the early 20th century, Norwood witnessed further growth with the construction of residential developments to accommodate the increasing population. The borough also established various amenities and services, such as schools, churches, and recreational facilities.
Norwood's industrial base began to decline in the mid-20th century, reflecting a larger trend of deindustrialization in the region. Many of the factories and mills either closed down or relocated, leading to job losses and economic challenges for the borough.
Despite these challenges, Norwood has remained a close-knit community. The borough has seen revitalization efforts in recent years, with initiatives aimed at attracting new businesses and promoting community development. Today, Norwood is a residential suburb with a small-town feel, offering easy access to nearby urban centers like Philadelphia.
In summary, Norwood, Pennsylvania, has a rich history that connects to the growth of industrialization in the region. From its early days as a rural area to its transformation into a small industrial hub, the borough has seen significant changes while preserving its sense of community.
Attractions
Norwood Historical Society Museum
a museum that showcases the history and heritage of Norwood and its surrounding areas.
Norwood Swim Club
a community swimming pool with various amenities and activities for all ages.
Norwood West Park
a local park with playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and walking trails.
The Tin Bin
a specialty shop offering unique home decor, gifts, and antiques.
Norwood Borough Municipal Park
a scenic park with a playground, picnic pavilions, and walking paths.
Robert J. Kaiser Middle School Performing Arts Center
a venue that hosts various cultural and entertainment events throughout the year.
Gospel Crusade Tabernacle
a historic church known for its beautiful architecture and religious services.
Prospect Park Historical Society
a nearby organization that focuses on preserving the history and culture of Prospect Park, a neighboring community to Norwood.
Climate
Norwood, Pennsylvania, is located in the northeastern region of the United States and experiences a humid subtropical climate. The area exhibits all four distinct seasons throughout the year.
Summers in Norwood tend to be warm, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to low-30s Celsius). Humidity levels can be relatively high during this time, leading to occasional discomfort. Thunderstorms are also common in the summer months.
Fall in Norwood is characterized by gradually cooling temperatures. September and October typically have average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low-70s Fahrenheit (around 18-25 degrees Celsius). As the season progresses, temperatures continue to drop with November experiencing averages in the mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 13 degrees Celsius). Fall foliage is often stunning in this region.
Winters in Norwood are cold, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to low-40s Fahrenheit (around 1-5 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common during this time, although it can vary from year to year. Winter storms occasionally bring significant snow accumulation.
Spring in Norwood brings a gradual warming trend. March and April have average temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 7-13 degrees Celsius). May brings milder temperatures, often in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 18 degrees Celsius), with occasional showers.
Overall, Norwood experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal changes. It is important to note that these are general patterns, and specific weather conditions may vary from year to year.
Neighborhoods
Norwood, PA is a borough located in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. It is a small community with a population of around 5,800 people. While Norwood is not divided into different official neighborhoods, there are several distinct areas within the borough that have their own characteristics. Here are some notable areas within Norwood:
Downtown Norwood
This is the central area of the borough, where you'll find the main streets, shops, and local businesses. It is a bustling area with a small-town atmosphere and is often the hub of community events.
Rose Valley
Located on the eastern side of Norwood, Rose Valley is a residential neighborhood characterized by tree-lined streets, well-maintained houses, and a quiet atmosphere. It is a popular area for families and is home to several parks and recreational facilities.
Woodlyn
Situated in the southwestern part of Norwood, Woodlyn is adjacent to the borough and considered part of its broader community. It offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, including shopping centers, restaurants, and a variety of housing options.
Norwood Park
Located near the southern border of Norwood, this neighborhood is named after the large public park within its boundaries. Norwood Park offers recreational amenities, including athletic fields, playgrounds, and open green spaces. The area is predominantly residential, with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses.
Chester Pike Corridor
Norwood is connected to the bustling Chester Pike, which runs through many neighboring towns. This stretch of road features various businesses, commercial establishments, and convenience stores, making it a prominent artery for local commerce.
Overall, Norwood is predominantly a residential community with a mix of urban and suburban characteristics. It offers a small-town feel while still being close to larger nearby cities, such as Philadelphia, making it an attractive place for residents seeking a quieter lifestyle with easy city access.