Cynthia Szoradi

Wayne - Listings

The town of Wayne, located in Radnor Township, is one of the oldest, and liveliest along the Main Line. Wayne was one of the nation’s first suburban developments to possess electricity, water and drainage utilities, an advantage that has attracted residents to Wayne for over 100 years. Wayne’s clean, beautifully landscaped town features rich historical buildings that indicate a long timeline of innovation.

The town of Wayne proper was first established when a wealthy banker named J. Henry Askin purchased a large amount for a large Victorian development, named Louella after his two daughters Louisa and Ella. The area evolved into a popular country escape for city dwellers, with the railroad making it possible for some of these wealthy businessmen to relocate permanently. The town soon changed its name from Louella to Wayne after the famous General Anthony Wayne. Although North and South Wayne initially developed as separate communities, they later came together to share the responsibilities of fire protection, street lighting and other community interests.

Wayne was deliberately chosen as a site on which to establish a residential development. It has a healthful elevation and now within its limits three train stations: St. David’s, Wayne and Eagle. The houses of North Wayne were built and designed by professional architects William L. and Frank L. Price. The Prices brought novel architectural styles to the area such as the Bruin Lodge, Flemish House, Pillar House and the Round End House. The neighborhood of South Wayne soon followed, building houses much grander than its northern counterpart. Renowned architects such as William Price and Horace Trumbauer designed many of the new homes of South Wayne, creating an extremely desirable neighborhood.

For over 100 years, Wayne has been considered one of the best suburbs west of Philadelphia in which to raise a family. In addition to low crime rate and high per capita income, Wayne boasts of excellent public schools and parochial schools, including the nearby Devereaux School, catering to children with educational difficulties. The town is also in the vicinity of Conestoga High School, declared “Best High School” in Philadelphia by Philadelphia Magazine’s October 2006 article, “The 50 Best Places to Live in Philadelphia.”

Wayne is only short distance from many golf courses, colleges, parks, libraries, shopping areas, restaurants and entertainment. The town remains one of the most popular shopping areas of the Main Line region due to its chic specialty stores. A local favorite of the Main Line, the Wayne Farmer’s Market does business three days a week. The Wayne community also supports many clubs and organizations such as The Radnor Historical Society, the Main Line Community Orchestra, the Wayne Art Center and the League of Women Voters. Houses in Wayne range from Colonial to Victorian, many with beautifully landscaped grounds on picturesque tree-lined streets.