About Allentown

The Allentown Association traces its roots to the founding of the North Street Association in 1960, which sought to create an appreciation among neighborhood residents for the architectural treasures that exist on every Allentown street. The organization grew quickly to encompass the entire neighborhood and was incorporated in 1963 as the Allentown Association, Inc.

Over the years, the Association’s activities on behalf of the neighborhood have varied due to changing circumstances. The Association adopts itself to the shifts in federal and state urban policies, and to changing administrations in City Hall. At times, it has stressed cultural and social activities; at times it has acted as a conduit for low-interest public loans to property owners, other times it has purchased and renovated historic properties. Always it has been a forceful advocate of historic preservation and a vigorous voice for the neighborhood’s interests in the arenas of political power and private economic influence.