Holme Crispin Park

A Piece of Colonial History

Found in Northeast Philadelphia, Holme Crispin Park offers a fascinating blend of historic charm and community recreation. Named after Thomas Holme, William Penn's surveyor general who mapped out Philadelphia's original layout in the late 1600s, this green space carries centuries of stories within its bounds.

The Ancient Resting Place

At the park's center, you'll come across the Holme-Crispin Cemetery - a small, fenced burial ground where Thomas Holme himself and members of the Crispin family (relatives of William Penn) are buried. Dating back to the late 1600s, this protected cemetery features weathered gravestones and a striking monument dedicated to Thomas Holme. It's a quiet reminder that you're standing on what was once part of Holme's personal estate - pretty remarkable when you think about it.

Play Ball and Beyond

Beyond its historical significance, the park boasts a well-kept baseball field that's become a neighborhood fixture. The versatile open spaces work equally well for impromptu football games, soccer matches, or just tossing a frisbee around. Local softball leagues call these fields home during their seasons, and you'll often spot youth sports practices happening throughout warmer months.

Community Green Space

The park extends well beyond the cemetery area, offering plenty of green space for picnics, casual strolls, or just lounging with a good book. It's where neighbors become friends during community events and family gatherings.

Note that seating is somewhat limited, so you might want to bring along portable chairs if you're planning to stay awhile. There are bathroom facilities on-site, however they aren't always open, so plan accordingly.

What makes Holme Crispin Park special is this unique intersection of Philadelphia's colonial past and present-day community life - a place where you can quite literally stand on historic ground while watching a Little League game unfold.