Soiree celebrates renewal of centuries-old gathering space

When folks came ’round to party in one of Philadelphia’s most famous parks this year, Franklin Square (FSP), it was a quintessential, almost summer, eve. Though not the most revered of William Penn’s well-thought out plots of property in the city, it has served its purpose and then some since 1682. Just ask those in attendance at its recent friend, fund and awareness raiser about exactly how special it is.

Originally considered to have a marsh like consistency to the land and therefore undesirable for many to live near or upon for a few centuries, the park has not only been recently resurrected but also reconstructed and certainly changed since its inception. It was the non-profit company Historic Philadelphia that picked the park up and restored it to more than its original “full and upright position” as one of Penn’s pride-filled places.

After being closed to the public for a lengthy period of time as its centerpiece fountain and family friendly atmosphere were spruced-up, along with the surrounding neighborhood, folks have returned to take advantage of its mini-golf course, carousel and exceptional gardens.

One of the ongoing events that’s attracted patrons for the last nine years has been a yearly fundraiser entitled “An Evening in Franklin Square”. Guests and luminaries turned out in fashion to stroll the pathways, watch good-natured betting on the carousel’s horses and engage at the mini golf course for a round of the sport before heading to a big-top tent for a gourmet dinner featuring Brulee Catering’s mouthwatering edibles and entertainment underwritten by Parx Casino.

Looking for a place that will entertain all members of the family, weather permitting? Explore no further. It resides between North 6th and 7th Streets, along with Race and Vine.

When next year’s soiree happens consider being there or being “square”, as the saying goes.

Kelly and Keith Jones await their turn on the famed carousel.

Philly tourism and culture guru Bill Gehrman, event services professional Leslie Kase, Mayor Jim Kinney and Chris Mullins are among the first to arrive at the Franklin Square Park party.

Main Liners who made a move to the city include Robert Nonemacker and the Casazzas, Crystal and Chris.

John Braun of Ambler meets up with Michael Starker of Bala Cynwyd and CBS radio VIP David Yadgaroff of Penn Valley.

Elizabeth Bradford and her husband, Kevin, a transplant to Philly from Narberth, admire the fountains at Franklin Square.

Jerry Wagner and Buzz Rizen find a bench from which to people watch.

Tom Caramanico of Haverford and Mary Beth Driscoll of Jenkintown take in the fountains and flowers adorning the park.

Eagles’ mascot “Swoop” zooms in for a merry-go-round trip with surprised riders.

Mike Fischette of Fairmount accompanies Newtown Square resident Tina Roberts-Lightcap to the most fun place of Philly’s five parks.