NEIGHBORHOOD HISTORY
Harding Middle School is located in the Frankford section of Philadelphia. Founded in 1684 by German settlers, Frankford took its name from the title of the Frankfurt Company. Frankford was historically a manufacturing center, beginning with a gristmill constructed in the 1660s. Frankford was also the site of a gunpowder mill that became famous because of its association with Oswald Eve and Paul Revere. In the 19th century, Frankford became a center for textile production. In 1922, the Frankford Elevated Line opened, which connected to the Market Street Elevated to provide rapid-transit access to Center City and West Philadelphia.
SCHOOL HISTORY
Construction on Harding Junior High School began in 1923. Completed in 1925, the project cost just over $1,000,000. On May 8, 1925, the nephew of President Warren G. Harding came to the opening ceremonies. Harding was designed to be a shining piece of architecture. The exterior, with its massive size and stone columns exuded a sense of strength to any passerby. The interior was just as impressive, especially given the historical period in which was built. The school's auditorium still boasts the impressive walnut stage and an upper tier balcony.
Harding Junior High School originally housed 1,900 7th, 8th, and 9th grade students. Built to provide a liberal arts education and basic skills, it also developed skills that could be useful once students entered the work force. Reading, math, social studies, science, wood shop, metal shop, sewing, cooking, drafting, choir, orchestra, and athletics were all considered important studies in 1925 and for much of Harding's history.
SCHOOL LEADERSHIP
Principal: Michael Calderone (email)
Assistant Superintendent: John Frangipani
The Philadelphia Wooden Boat Factory works with youth from the Frankford section of Philadelphia on boat building projects and other experiential learning opportunities. Students write about their experiences on the PWBF blog, providing a unique look into learning that goes on there. Read More.
