The destruction and rebuilding -- 1997-2001
This chronology reflects current
information. Research is ongoing.
1997
Historic Penn bank barn (Hay Barn) burns. All historic wood materials, roofing, timbers, windows, doors, were severely damaged. The adjacent sheep barn was also severely damaged. Fortunately, all the animals were saved by the resident farmers. This fire had long-reaching effects, impacting on the 16,000 to 18,000 people who come to the farm
yearly for educational purposes, festivals, and tours. With the cooperation and support of
the Fairmount Park Commission and the Philadelphia School District, the Friends of Fox Chase Farm begin community awareness and fund raising activities to help restore the barn.
2000
The Philadelphia School District, with some financial assistance from the Fairmount Park Commission and it's NLREEP grant, provides funding for rehabilitation of the barn. Work on the barn proceeds and a new educational building is added to the site in front of the original barn. The exterior of the barn conforms to its original appearance. The interior utilizes 21st century construction technology.
2001
Dedication of new barn October 20, 2001.
Historical Highlights
Click on a link below to find out more about the dates indicated.
| 1683-1692 | 1821-1863 | 1876-1901 | 1901-1917 | 1939-1969 | 1972-1980 | 1981-1994 | 1997-2001 |