John S. Trower (1849-1911)
Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
One of the wealthiest African Americans of his time, entrepreneur John Trower ran his prominent catering business here. He founded Downingtown Industrial & Agricultural School, a building and loan association for Black homeowners, and he generously donated to Baptist charities.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
John S. Trower built one of the most successful catering businesses of his day here in Philadelphia, becoming one of the wealthiest African Americans of the late nineteenth century. He turned his success into service, founding the Downingtown Industrial & Agricultural School and a building-and-loan association to help Black families become homeowners. A devout man, he gave generously to Baptist charities throughout his life.
Why it matters
Trower exemplifies the Black entrepreneurial and self-help tradition of the post-Emancipation era, using hard-won wealth to open doors in education and homeownership for others.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- African American Museum in Philadelphia5.8 mi away · 701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- National Constitution Center5.9 mi away · 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Independence Visitor Center6.0 mi away · 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Betsy Ross House6.0 mi away · 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Illadelph Glass Gallery6.1 mi away · 68 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Museum of Illusions Philadelphia6.1 mi away · 401 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
Attractions
- Discovery Center at East Park Reservoir3.8 mi away
- Pennsylvania Railroad, Connecting Railway Bridge4.3 mi away
- Harbison's Dairy Milk Bottle4.4 mi away
- Philadelphia Zoo4.6 mi away
- Rocky Steps4.9 mi away
- Philly Gun Range5.2 mi away · North Percy Street
Food & drink
- Independence Mall Cafe6.0 mi away · 50 North Independence Mall East, Philadelphia
- Burger King6.0 mi away
- Dunkin'6.0 mi away · 634 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- La Colombe Coffee Roasters6.0 mi away
- Philly Pretzel Factory6.1 mi away
- Time & Peace6.1 mi away · 36 South 7th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places to stay
- Days Inn Philadelphia Convention Center - Philadelphia5.6 mi away · 1227 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Four Points by Sheraton Philadelphia City Center5.6 mi away · 1201 Race Street, Philadelphia
- Clarion Suites Philadelphia5.7 mi away · 1010 Race Street, Philadelphia
- Sleep Inn Center City5.7 mi away · 1020 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia - Convention Center, PA5.7 mi away · 1200 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- The Notary Hotel5.8 mi away · 21 North Juniper Street, Philadelphia
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Related people
- · John S. Trower
Themes & tags
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