Byberry, Philadelphia facts for kids

Byberry is a neighborhood in the far northeast part of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It used to be its own town, called the Township of Byberry. It was the most northeastern town in Philadelphia County.

In 1854, Philadelphia City and County joined together. After this, Byberry became part of the city. Today, the Byberry area is mostly known as the Somerton neighborhood. The two names often refer to the same place.

Byberry was important in the fight against slavery. It had many people who wanted to end slavery. It might have even been a stop on the Underground Railroad. This was a secret network that helped enslaved people find freedom.

Byberry's Early History

Byberry was a township in the very northeastern part of Philadelphia County. It shared borders with Bucks County and Montgomery County.

The area was first settled in the mid-1600s by people from Sweden. Later, in 1675, four brothers from England arrived. Their names were Nathaniel, Thomas, Daniel, and William Walton. They explored the land near the Delaware River. They chose to settle near the Poquessing Creek.

They named their new home Byberry. This was to honor their hometown in England, which was near Bristol. More families joined them later, starting in 1682.

Famous People from Byberry

Byberry is known as the birthplace of Benjamin Rush. He was a very important person in American history. Benjamin Rush was one of the people who signed the Declaration of Independence. This document declared America's freedom from Great Britain.

The township was officially created very early on, after William Penn arrived. At the time Philadelphia County joined with the city, Byberry was mostly countryside. It had very few small villages. The main villages were Byberry Crossroads (also called Plumbsock) and Knightsville.

Notable People from Byberry

• Harriet Forten Purvis: She was an important person who fought to end slavery. She also worked for women's right to vote.
• Robert Purvis: He was known as the "father of the Underground Railroad." He helped many enslaved people escape to freedom.
• Reverend Thomas Hall: He was a minister who moved back to England. He later became a chaplain in Italy.