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Views of Narberth Past

Narberth Presbyterian church 1897

Image source: Collection of the Lower Merion Historical Society

Addresses in view: 111 Grayling Ave., 205 Grayling Ave., 204 Grayling Ave., 208 N. Narberth Ave., 214 N. Narberth Ave., 200 Grayling Ave.

modern view of the historical image seen from the same viewpoint

This church replaced a smaller 1891 frame building that was destroyed by fire in January 1896. It was designed by architect Joseph Cather Newsom (1858–1930) and built by church trustee and neighbor John K. Ketcham. Ketcham is likely the photographer, as well. All three images are shot from a similar viewpoint, possibly Ketcham's back yard at nearby 323 Haverford.

Photographed a couple of minutes earlier?
Photographed from a higher viewpoint, an upper story of Ketcham's house?

The church's Windsor and Hampden Avenue facades were rebuilt in 1925, to a design by local architect Osborn Graves. The steeple and front entrance were altered in 1955. Parts of the 1896 structure can still be discerned from the church parking lot on Grayling Ave.

black and white rendering of the proposed church redesign seen from Windsor avenue.
Our Town, March 14, 1925

Updated February 20, 2025.