Royersford Demolishes Old Ice Cream Factory, Upscale Apartments Coming

ROYERSFORD, PA — The borough of Royersford closed one chapter of its history and opened a new one recently as the historic Nelson Ice Cream Factory was demolished.

At the same time, officials held a groundbreaking ceremony on a massive new development that will bring an upscale apartment complex, office space, and commercial space to downtown.

Nelson's Factory on 610 Main Street has been a Royersford fixture since 1916, when its cows first began grazing along a pasture that would one day become Route 422. Nelson's transitioned to ice cream by 1935 and its factory has stood out as a monument of the area's early history for the better part of a century that has passed since.

Officials say the new development is the start of something exciting for Royersford.

"Five years ago, I was happy to help kickstart the revitalization of Main Street by opening my district office inside the old Lebow Furniture building," State Sen. Katie Muth said. "Not only has this had a positive impact on small businesses, but it also has added affordable housing options in newly renovated spaces which is something sorely needed in our community."

The coming apartment building will feature 78 units, organizers said. The ground floor will be open for commercial lease space.

Cres are also working to restore a historic Victorian house on the property, now known as Ivy House. The structure will hold office, retail, and "personal services" when complete.

An exact timeline for completion of the project is not yet known.

Nelson's, today headquartered in Plymouth Meeting, will continue to produce its famous scoops.