In many ways, the history of the neighborhood is reflected in the story of the historic Larkin-Belber building, located at 2200 Arch Street.
This 12-story industrial manufacturing building was built around 1912-13. It was originally occupied by the Larkin Company, a soap manufacturer. Shortly afterward, the Belber Trunk and Bag Company moved their operation into the building, and began manufacturing high-end luggage there. Several textile and garment manufacturers also operated out of the space. During this time period, this part of Logan Square was an industrial area and working class neighborhood.
Garment manufacturing continued after Belber relocated in the mid-twentieth century. (Other businesses rented space there as well, including the Philadelphia Daily News.) However, manufacturing activity halted by 1980. Arch Street's industrial phase was quietly coming to an end. The Larkin-Belber building stood empty for over two decades.
As "urban renewal" efforts transformed and gentrified the neighborhood, real estate prices began to rise. In 2004-2006, as the area was on its way to becoming more upscale, the building was remodeled and developed into high-priced lofts with a great deal of amenities--luxury living for people of means.
As "urban renewal" efforts transformed and gentrified the neighborhood, real estate prices began to rise. In 2004-2006, as the area was on its way to becoming more upscale, the building was remodeled and developed into high-priced lofts with a great deal of amenities--luxury living for people of means.
Above: The Larkin-Belber building as it looks today. The building is located across the street from SLA, and Arch Gourmet operates out of a space on the ground floor. It is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Photos:
top right: The Condo Shop, via Philadelphia Magazine,
top left: Trend, via Philadelphia Magazine
below left: Wikipedia
bottom: A. Cohen
top right: The Condo Shop, via Philadelphia Magazine,
top left: Trend, via Philadelphia Magazine
below left: Wikipedia
bottom: A. Cohen