The History of West Oak Lane, PA

The following article showcasing the neighborhood’s history and highlights has been brought to you by the personal injury attorneys in West Oak Lane, PA, at Monheit Law.

West Oak Lane

The neighborhood of West Oak Lane is situated in the northwestern region of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Cheltenham Avenue, Broad Street, Washington Lane, and Stenton Avenue form the neighborhood’s borders. Nearby towns include East Germantown, Ongontz, Olney, and La Mott.

History

Development of the neighborhood began in the early 1920s continuing through the late 1930s. Many of the areas closest to Cedarbrook were built following World War II. During the 19th century, a tavern called the Cedar Park Inn was located at the corner of Washington Lane and Limekiln Pike. The historical inn was torn down around 1931.

The community hosted a jazz festival each June from 2003 until 2012. Many well-known artists performed during this event, including:

• Chaka Khan
• Teena Marie
• Jeffrey Osbourne
• Chrisette Michele

Historical Landmarks

The historical Philadelphia National Cemetery is within the community, located just off of Haines Street and Limekiln Pike. It was established in 1862, along with 14 other national cemeteries. The cemetery was entered in the National Register of Historic Places in 1997. Although the dedication date is unknown, the Mexican War Monument was erected to honor 38 men that died while serving. The Confederate Soldiers and Sailors Monument and the granite Revolutionary War Memorial can be found along the grounds. The Northwood Cemetery is also within the neighborhood and can be located on Haines Street.

Another historical landmark within the neighborhood is Ogontz Hall, located on Ogontz Avenue. This historical structure is a mix of residential and commercial use. It was built in 1929 using the Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style. It was constructed using limestone with a brick exterior and a terra cotta tile roof.

Neighborhood

The community offers its residents many dining options, such as:

• China House – 66th Avenue
• Family Spot Jamaican Restaurant – North Broad Street
• Moonlight Cuisine – Limekiln Pike
• Jamil’s Cafe – Ogontz Avenue

Demographics

The neighborhood was home to 42,390 residents in 2013, consisting of 18,298 men and 24,626 women. The population density was 24,517 people per square mile. As many as 6.2% of the residents were born outside of the country. Approximately 5.1% of the households speak French, while 92.2% speak English. Many of the residents identify their ethnicity or ancestry as the following:

• Sub-Saharan African (16.2%)
• African (14.6%)
• Haitian (10.4%)
• Jamaican (6.0%)
• Mexican (1.5%)

The community is a below-average income neighborhood.  Within its borders, 11.5% of the children live below the federal poverty line. Some of the working population is employed in the following professions:

• clerical, assistant, and tech support (31.1%)
• executive, management, and professional (29.9%)
• sales and service jobs (25.2%)
• manufacturing and laborer (13.8%)

Follow along: A Quick History of Cedarbrook, PA

Our Local Office

The West Oak Lane, PA, personal injury attorneys at Monheit Law proudly represent injured residents in the community and the surrounding areas. Our injury attorneys guide victims through the legal process to get the compensation they rightfully deserve. Call today for a free consultation.

Monheit Law
1368 Barrowdale Rd.
Jenkintown, PA 19046
(215) 866-2018