Scope and Contents From the Collection: The History Files collection contains research materials documenting parks, sites, structures, organizations, events, and individuals associated with the Fairmount Park System and Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. This collection compiles materials from diverse sources over time rather than representing the records of a single office or individual. Typical materials include correspondence, deeds, leases, newspaper clippings, photocopies of published articles and book excerpts, research...

Scope and Contents From the Collection: The History Files collection contains research materials documenting parks, sites, structures, organizations, events, and individuals associated with the Fairmount Park System and Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. This collection compiles materials from diverse sources over time rather than representing the records of a single office or individual. Typical materials include correspondence, deeds, leases, newspaper clippings, photocopies of published articles and book excerpts, research...

Scope and Contents

Correspondence from Eustace L. Blake, Chairman of the Richard Allen Statue Committee, and others requesting permission to erect a bronze statue in the park and documenting the Fairmount Park Commission's approval in principle, the recommendation and selection of sculptor Richmond Barthe, site selection, and early correspondence regarding the sketch model and pedestal design (1946-1947). No record of the statue's construction has been identified.

Scope and Contents A letter from J.B. Cox, Secretary of the Fairmount Park Art Association, clarifying that the Tam O'Shanter sculpture group remains the property of the Franklin Institute and requesting the Fairmount Park Commission amend its 1877 resolution of acceptance to reflect that the sculptures are held in trust (1878), a 1942 letter from Park Guard Superintendent William Long reporting damage caused by boys throwing stones, and correspondence documenting the sculptures' removal to storage near...

Scope and Contents Correspondence regarding site preparation, Art Jury approval, and inscription design for the statue, including a Fairmount Park Commission resolution approving the statue by sculptor Giuseppe Donato to be cast in bronze and an Art Jury specification that burnt sienna rather than coal dust be used to color the incised lettering (1941), and correspondence regarding Major J.H. Collins's offer to donate Irish ivy for planting around the base, including a site plan sketch by landscape gardener J....