A History of Frankford Friends School

“Any School that intends to remain a vibrant learning place for children must also grow, adapting its educational program to the changing times. Frankford Friends has evolved from a small, one-room rural school that met on the second floor of the Meetinghouse to an urban campus with several buildings. Its mission has also changed from teaching Quaker children the rudiments of literacy and religion to providing a more comprehensive education to children from a variety of social and economic backgrounds. Over the years, the curriculum and the overall educational program have reflected the changing needs and interests of the students.

At the same time, however, FFS has always been committed to the development of the whole child, working hard to create an affirming, supportive atmosphere that will allow each child to develop a sense of self-worth. Curiosity, creativity and enjoyment of learning in an informal setting still characterizes the education today as it did in the past. Through a challenging academic curriculum and a variety of learning experiences, FFS has sought to provide its students with a thorough understanding of basic concepts, clear and logical thinking, and the ability to communicate ideas. The aim is to cultivate a life-long love of learning among students.”

William C.

In 1833, Frankford Monthly Meeting members purchased a large parcel of land spanning from what is now Orthodox Street to Leiper Avenue, for the sum of $1,777.07. A new Meetinghouse was built, with 20 Quaker students learning on the second floor. The School’s budget was $75, with $28.27 of that going towards scholarships.

As the School grew, classes were moved above the horse shed and eventually, a free standing, one-room schoolhouse was constructed in 1890.

A red brick schoolhouse was built in the late 19th century to accommodate the growing numbers of students in the post Civil War era and, under the guidance of Principal Reba Lammey, the School’s enrollment increased to 59. New additions were increasingly added over the next 40 years. A durable water line was also added, enabling “fifty children to all wash their hands for lunch - all at the same time!”

During the 1970’s, more changes were made to accommodate a fluctuating number of students. For example, when a particular grade required more space, a classroom was enlarged, or if the preschool program was discontinued for a period of time, the space where it met was converted for a different use. Most interesting to the students was the reading loft built into the fifth grade classroom.

Reba Lammey Principal from 19281969, believed that Meeting for Worship was central to the life of the school

Beginning in 2012, Frankford Friends School began a new and exciting period of campus growth. The construction of the Margaret Passmore Trickey building celebrated the end of a multi-year process of inquiry, consensus-building, and planning, led by Principal Penny Colgan-Davis (2005-2015) and the Frankford Monthly Meeting. 7th and 8th graders could now join other students on campus, providing leadership and example to the younger children.

In 2014, two properties were gifted to FFS, including a three-story house, the former parsonage, and a .4-acre vacant lot across the street from the school, where the city had torn down a deteriorating church.

Under the guidance of Terry Farley, who was FFS Principal from 1969-2004, Frankford Friends School implemented new programs in the arts, with the spirit of the school reflected in music. Mr. Farley himself conducted the choirs and handbell ensemble, and alumni fondly remember their holiday performances at Strawbridge and Clothiers. Plays and pageants were also an enormous part of the School’s culture. The School’s first Apple computer lab was also installed during that time.