Reading About Your Neighborhood

In my effort to learn more about La Mott, and my family of origin, I am led to various resources such as the newspaper "The Philadelphia Tribune," established in 1884. To view the previous issues of the newspaper online meant that I could read about garden parties where women wore large hats, La Mott Hall where dances were held, baby showers, wedding anniversaries and various other social events. By looking under the heading "La Mott Events"  I saw that there was quite a bit going on.

An "Apron and Necktie" dinner was hosted on Graham Lane in March 1942. (I have no idea what kind of event this is.)

In May 1943, The newspaper reported that the Moore-Triplett Post, No 451 of the American Legion Board of Commissioners wanted to honor the Colored Soldiers at Camp William Penn and on the corner of Willow and Sycamore Avenues you will see a monument placed to honor those soldiers.

A La Mott Center Open Membership Drive was held, according to the March 16, 1957 issue of the "Tribune."  The Board wanted to expand the Center's community activities and fellowship organizations.  Mr. Aaron Bass served as president of the Center and Mrs. Helen Olvis served as one of the Campaign assistants. 

The  La Mott Community Center hosted a Baby Clinic in March 1959 which was a health forum for local mothers.

These are just a few of the events that were held during a time when the residents worked together for the common good of the neighborhood. 

1897 Map of La Mott

Through the years various organizations have created maps. A.H. Mueller & Company's publish an Altas of Cheltenham, Abington and Springfield Townships, Montgomery County, Penna. I focused on the La Mott area naturally.

One of the reasons this atlas is so interesting is because of Walker Jones. He lived on Willow Avenue intersected by Cedar Lane. He had a plot of land that he divided so that two brick homes could be built and lived in by his two sons Alphonso and Leon. His daughter lived with him and his other two sons also lived on Willow Avenue on either side of School Lane.

I was wondering if there was a map showing the property before Walker Jones divided it and indeed there is. This 1897 atlas shows his property. One other thing that interested me is when he moved from Upper Dublin where he appeared with his family on the 1880 U.S. Census. The 1890 U.S. Census burned barely leaving any census information. So, when did he move. Best I can figure out at this time, he purchased his property on Willow Avenue sometime before this publication was completed. Another note to mention is the the atlas lists the owners of property all throughout La Mott, Cheltenham Township and so on.

The atlas can be found at the Old York Road Historical Society located in the Jenkintown Library on Old York Road.