Our History
More Than a Building. A Place That Continues to Evolve.
For more than 150 years, Oxford Mills has been a place of purpose. What began as one of Kensington's largest textile mills has transformed through generations of industry, innovation, and reinvention. Today, Oxford Mills honors that history while carrying its legacy forward into a new chapter.
Built On Craftsmanship
The story of Oxford Mills begins in 1873 with the Quaker City Dye Works, a cornerstone of Kensington's thriving textile industry. Built for craftsmanship and productivity, the campus produced dyed textiles, cotton and wool yarns, and silk goods for the garment industry. Its expansive windows, heavy timber framing, soaring ceilings, and durable brick construction created a purpose-built environment for skilled workers and industrial production.
In the 1970’s, 80’s, 90’s, and 2000’s Oxford Mills was home to Pieri Creations, one of America’s iconic lamp manufacturers before being converted into an education-focused mixed use redevelopment project by D3 Developer and Seawall Development.
Today, many of those original architectural elements remain, giving Oxford Mills a character that cannot be recreated. They stand as a lasting reminder of the craftsmanship and ingenuity that shaped both the building and the neighborhood.
Established in 1873
Originally established as Quaker City Dye Works, the campus grew into one of Kensington's most significant textile manufacturing centers before becoming what is known today as Oxford Mills.
Preserving What Matters
As Philadelphia's manufacturing economy changed, many historic industrial buildings were lost to time. Oxford Mills took a different path. Beginning in 2012, the property underwent an award-winning adaptive reuse and historic preservation effort that restored the former mill while creating a new mixed-use community.
The redevelopment preserved the building’s historic character while creating quality, affordable office space for education-focused nonprofits, including Teach For America.
National Register of Historic Places
Listed in 2012 in recognition of the property's architectural and historical significance.
A Legacy Of Community
For more than a century, people have come to this place to build something meaningful. Today, that legacy continues through a connected community of residents, businesses, neighborhood retail, and mission-driven organizations. Oxford Mills is a place where ideas grow, relationships flourish, and people feel at home.
Recognized nationally for thoughtful preservation and locally for its community impact, Oxford Mills remains rooted in the values that have defined it for generations: craftsmanship, connection, and purpose.
Recognized For Excellence
2015 National Association of Home Builders — Best Adaptive Reuse
2015 National Association of Home Builders — Best Project, North Atlantic Region
2015 Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia — Grand Jury Award