Because I find this fascinating

Fact:

• I'm a sucker for fountains. But even more so - for the stories behind them

On 9th near Spruce

• This particular fountain was in remembrance for Edward Wetherill who was born in Pennsylvania in February 1821 and who died October 2, 1908
• Even more interesting is that a census reports his occupation as Abolitionist
• He and his family were Quakers and lived at one point at 1413 Spruce street

The city really takes care of its fountains

•  He came from a long line of Philadelphia Quakers mentioned as far back as 1783

Do:

• Visit and peruse Edward's abolitionist letters and collections at the Pennsylvania Historical Society
• Read about other famous Philadelphia Wetherills

Don't:

• Get confused but read this short but fascinating excerpt from the New York Times December 26, 1905 edition about another Edward Wetherill
• Know anything about paint manufacturing? George Wetherill owner of George D Wetherill & Co  - was the first to manufacture white lead in 1804 - which later became Dutch Boy Paint

Things People have said to me on the Street

Fact:

• All sorts of crazy people accost me while I’m peaceably walking 
• This happens to me all over the city
• These are in no particular order or chronology
• It does not include people asking me for directions

 What was said:

• Damn! Anyone ever tell you that you’re built like a black woman? (said by man sitting in front of his low income housing)

• MMMMMMM you sure are juicy! (said by homeless man on bicycle)

• You retarded bitch! (said by mentally ill woman when I didn’t give her money)

• Don’t you know it’s Christmas? (said by homeless man asking me for money on January 4^th)

• SMACK! (no words, but me getting my ass slapped (hard) by Mexican guy on a bicycle)

• Cookie? (asked by homeless man holding a crumpled open box of girl scout cookies in exchange for money)

• Don’t go to North Philly! You’ll die in North Philly! (said by crazy homeless woman)

• MMM Looking good girl! (said by flamboyant queen)

• PUTA! (said by white frat guys in a car)