Andalusia Wharf
In the days when Delaware River transportation was at its height, Andalusia Wharf [†] was a busy place. It stood about a mile from Andalusia, nearly opposite Delanco, New Jersey, and about fourteen miles from Philadelphia.
It was the first stop within Bucks County for northbound steamboats and sailing vessels. Through the trees, a few hundred yards below the landing, could be seen Andalusia, the country seat of the Biddles.
The wharf, its buildings, and the surrounding grounds were kept in excellent repair. Sloping green lawns, ornamental shrubs, and trees gave the place a refined appearance, and a paved driveway led down to the wharf.
Nearby was a picnic ground called Chestnut Grove, which was popular with schools, societies, and pleasure parties, many of them from Philadelphia. This made the area not only a transportation point but also a local recreation spot.
A pamphlet by David Scattergood, Delaware River (1878), included an engraving of the wharf and its approaches, with an inset showing the Andalusia mansion. The image captures the wharf as a lively river landing during the period when river travel was still an important part of regional commerce.
† Adapted from: Bucks County Historical Society, Place Names in Bucks County, 1942, George McReyolds, Doylestown.
Nearby Neighborhoods
Street Names
Station Avenue