The historic Alfred E. Burk House, located at 1500 N. Broad St., has a vibrant history and significant meaning to the North Philadelphia community.  

Temple acquired the building from the Burk family in 1971. Known as Burk Mansion, it has served as the location for multiple community initiatives—including education, workforce development, violence prevention and child welfare training programs—for the neighborhoods surrounding Main Campus and the Health Sciences Center. In April 2026, to further the site’s impact as a multi-use space for local resources and support, the university submitted a proposal to the Philadelphia Historical Commission with plans for extensive restorations and renovations. Once complete, it would serve as the foundation for and location of Temple’s community engagement initiatives in North Philadelphia. 

Envisioning the location’s future and impact 

In the proposal, Temple presented opportunities for what programs and spaces could be housed at Burk Mansion and continue to grow the university’s longstanding commitment to residents. 

• Computer labs, to support digital access and creative skills.  
• Open spaces, for a range of movement activities.
• A community garden, to promote food access and community connection.