Founded in the 1700’s, Fishtown was the home to Irish and Polish immigrant fishermen and shipbuilders who settled along the Delaware River. Generations of working class families lived, worked and prayed here with both Holy Name of Jesus and Saint Laurentius parishes serving as the spiritual and social hub of the community.
Named as one of the ‘Best Neighborhoods in Philadelphia,’ Fishtown is home today to an eclectic group of both life long and new residents. While history and neighborhood traditions live on, our community has seen an exciting infusion of new galleries, restaurants and businesses. Located in one Philadelphia’s largest arts hubs, Saint Laurentius’ STREAM programming is influenced by the creativity of our neighbors and friends.
Our students get involved in our community. You will see them with brooms in hand participating in neighborhood clean ups, packing turkeys into Thanksgiving baskets, gathering and distributing supplies to the homeless, and filling the night air in song at our neighborhood Christmas tree lighting. Participating in neighborhood events strengthens the students ties to the community while learning to serve others. They learn that they are a part of the greater good.
We have a strong school and parish community as reflected by our Halloween and Christmas parties, spaghetti dinners and annual 5K run. We believe that the bonds and friendships that are formed during these events are vital to the development of our children and their families.
The evolution of Fishtown is ongoing and Saint Laurentius School is an integral part of that evolution.
