Delving into the annals of Philadelphia’s transportation history reveals fascinating glimpses of bygone eras. For those familiar with the Fern Rock Transportation Center today, it might be surprising to learn about its predecessor: the OLD Fern Rock Station on Godfrey Ave. This station, a vibrant hub in its time, holds nostalgic memories for residents and offers a unique perspective on the evolution of fern rock transportation in the region.
One local resident, recalling his childhood in the Olney section of Philadelphia during the late 1930s and war years, vividly remembers the original Fern Rock Station. Located on Godfrey Ave., it was a prime spot to witness the powerful Camelback locomotives in action. These steam engines, hallmarks of the Reading Railroad, would thunder through the station en route to Jenkintown or Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal. This period was a significant chapter in fern rock transportation, as the railways played a crucial role in connecting communities and facilitating movement.
The strategic importance of fern rock transportation during the war years is also highlighted in these recollections. Just below the Fern Rock station, near Tabor Station on Tabor Rd., the Reading Railroad utilized sidings for storing passenger cars. This infrastructure was essential for troop movements, underscoring the vital role of rail in national efforts. Adding to the area’s industrial character was a coal siding on the northbound track between Fern Rock and Tabor Stations. A coal trestle facilitated the unloading of coal cars, supplying fuel for homes in the Olney neighborhood. This detail paints a picture of how fern rock transportation also supported local economies and domestic needs.
While the landscape has drastically changed with the modern SEPTA regional rail system, remnants of the past can still be discerned. Observant commuters can spot the location of the old Fern Rock station just north of today’s Fern Rock Transportation Center. Although physical photographs from the 1930s and 40s of the exact Fern Rock Godfrey Ave. station are scarce online, historical railway archives and local historical societies may hold valuable visual records. Websites dedicated to railway history, like the Blue Comet website showcasing Reading Railroad stations, offer further avenues for exploration into the rich heritage of fern rock transportation in Philadelphia. The memories shared and the available resources help piece together the story of a station that was once a vital part of the community and a key point in the network of fern rock transportation.
