Paper Mill Run

Paper Mill Run is a tributary that flows through Mount Airy and Germantown neighborhoods in Philadelphia, running beneath Lincoln Drive before emerging near Johnson Street. The stream contains populations of trout and supports fishing activities for visitors throughout the year.

William Rittenhouse established the first paper mill in America along this stream in the late 1600s, marking the beginning of industrial activity in the area. This early use of the water for manufacturing made it a central location for colonial industry.

The creek carries the alternate name Monoshone Creek, linking the area's past to the valley and watershed that residents and visitors experience as they walk through nearby parks.

The stream is easiest to access during warmer months when water levels drop and banks are more approachable. Multiple access points near local streets make visits straightforward, but visitors should look for nearby parking and treat the surrounding area with care.

A wetlands restoration project at Saylor's Grove began in 2006 to create natural buffers that reduce water pollution. This ongoing work demonstrates how modern conservation efforts are improving the stream's health and restoring its local ecosystem.

GPS coordinates: 40.03077,-75.18847

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:24