Despite recent revitalization efforts, Kensington has often been referred to as one of the poorest, most crime-ridden areas in Philadelphia. Violence dates back to the mid-19th century, as ethnic communities with various economic, social, and religious backgrounds lived in crowded quarters amongst each other. Simultaneously, Kensington’s was undergoing a rapid, economic transformation, transitioning from an artisan-based economy to one centralized around manufacturing and factory labor. The influx of large industrial firms aroused new frustrations regarding social and working conditions. By the mid-20th century, Kensington would see these same manufacturing jobs dissolve: deindustrialization hit hard in the 1950s. Consequently, Kensington suffered from the population losses that often coincide with the exodus of jobs. The neighborhood had been sucked of any and all productive life, leaving behind poverty, crime, and dilapidation. More recently, the neighborhood has seen varying degrees of revitalization, particularly targeting the creative and artisan communities. Like many Philadelphia neighborhoods, however, these redevelopment efforts have facilitated gentrification, though unlike neighbors Northern Liberties and Fishtown, Kensington is changing at a much slower rate.
Kensington is often studied by scholars seeking to explain racial and ethnic differences, violence, educational patterns, and other elements that contribute to urban history and development. Many of these articles, stories, and depictions, as well as news briefs are documented on this website.
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