What was once created to be competitive with other cities, with the creation of the Erie Canal and various railroads in other states, Pennsylvania’s train system from Philadelphia to Lancaster was integral to increasing trade and impact outside of Philadelphia. Originally dubbed "Philadelphia and Columbia Railway”, this railroad was the first in the world to be built by the government. A deep dive into the train line’s history provides a fascinating story of development, growth, and expansion.
As time went on, the state was no longer able to fund the railroad and the Pennsylvania Railroad Company purchased the Main Line section of railroad, adding stops almost every two minutes, eventually growing from three stops to the 17 we see today. The railroad existed to transport not only cargo but commuters, out to the sprawling, green landscape of today’s Main Line. The Main Line grew to be both understated - and extravagant - and remains so today. Many of Philadelphia's elite had residences in the city - and larger “country homes” in today’s Main Line.
The development of Wayne’s train station, as one example, led to building 150 homes, boasting “the second town in America to have electricity in every home". In the late 1800’s, improvements were made to the existing Lincoln Highway (now known as Lancaster Ave.), increasing accessibility to the Main Line, through to Paoli. The Main Line continued to grow as “a center for social and cultural living.” According to the Lower Merion Historical Society, towards the late 1880’s, development started targeting the middle class. In 1913, the Pennsylvania Railroad had a promotional brochure that touted “The charm of this suburban life, with its pure air, pure water and healthful surroundings, combined with the educational advantages provided, churches, stores, and excellent transit facilities to and from the city, is manifest.” Much of that description remains true today. Passenger service continued past the end of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and today the R5 line, consisting of the original Main Line route, is SEPTA’s busiest commuter route.
The Main Line boasts a rich history of culture, food, horses, activity and prestigious academics. Filmiamo has been lucky to capture much of this culture in our local area. With our headquarters located right near the Devon Horse Show, we’re well positioned to capture content for the various businesses, events, and nonprofit organizations along the Main Line and in Philadelphia.
When we’re not producing content for companies and nonprofits throughout the country, we have the privilege of exploring all that our area has to offer! We recently visited Chanticleer Garden on a beautiful spring day - and marveled at the blooms and appreciated the simple joys of children rolling down the grassy hills. We love visiting the shops and restaurants in Downtown Wayne, and are particularly excited for the revival of the Anthony Wayne Theatre. The arts are aplenty on the Main Line, with The Ardmore Music Hall hosting concerts, People's Light presenting spectacular shows, and Bryn Mawr Film Institute showing movies old and new. While our entire team loves to travel, it’s a pleasure to return home to the Philadelphia suburbs and enjoy all this area has to offer!
Our home on the Main Line positions us well to capture and create content for nonprofits and businesses in the Greater Philadelphia region. Connect with us today to discuss how we can uniquely promote your organization!
