Abigail Vare School, Neoclassical school building in Pennsport, Philadelphia, US
Abigail Vare School is a three-story stone structure featuring Ionic columns, Palladian windows, and a central projecting pediment characteristic of Neoclassical design. The building sits across from Dickinson Square Park in the Pennsport neighborhood.
The school was constructed between 1903 and 1904 and earned recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. This designation reflects its importance as an example of early 20th century Neoclassical architecture in Philadelphia.
The school bears the name of Abigail Vare, mother of three influential Philadelphia politicians and contractors known as the Vare Brothers, who played major roles in shaping the city's development.
The building was purchased by Concordia Group in 2014 for redevelopment and renovation work continues on the property. Visitors should check ahead before visiting, as the site undergoes active transformation and public access may be limited.
The renovation project adds six new townhouses adjacent to the main building alongside 41 apartment units within the structure itself. This mixed-use transformation preserves the historical facade while creating modern residential spaces for contemporary use.
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