For Our Gentle Friends

I am obsessed with water features. Fountains? Yes, please!

Facts:

• Philadelphia is filled with huge and impressive fountains, many of which were sponsored by the Philadelphia Fountain Society.  (Which may or may not be a mysterious cult, because I cannot find much online information about this society.)  
• Philadelphia's more popular fountains were large affairs designed by famous artists (like Calder and Lipchitz). 
• I do not have many more facts about this particular topic because I just really wanted to share with you the fountain below.

But what about the small humble fountains that we walk by everyday without paying any attention? Seriously, what about them?

3rd between South and Bainbridge

In the winter the fountain above is easy to miss, snow covered and weathered. But it has an endearing inscription: For Our Gentle Friends.

Which I guess to refers to non-rabid animals or simple-minded humans. But whatever the case, it's very nice. I couldn't find any information on this particular fountain so you'll just have to enjoy without knowing more. Or purchase this book - though there is no guarantee that this fountain is in it.

Extra Fact: 

• There are other small fountains spread throughout the city dedicated to animals. There is a horse trough on 3rd and Arch "Presented by a Lady" with the words, "Give Us Water That We May Drink" emblazoned on it.

Interview With Wilbur Vintage: Or where to go to buy awesome things

Me: Thanks for the interview. So tell me, how did you get the name Wilbur for your vintage store? Is it because you love Charlotte's Web?

Dan: Actually, I never saw that cartoon. In grade school through high school kids used to call me WILBUR THE PIG or they'd say WILLLLLLLLBURRRRRR like the horse, Mr. Ed, so I never felt the need to watch Charlotte's Web.

Me: Oh.

Dan: WILBUR is my last name. Crazy, right?


Me: Are you actually the heir to the Wilbur chocolate fortune? http://www.wilburchocolate.com/

Dan: If that were the case I wouldn't be selling my wares at WILBUR! I'd be painting the town in chocolate.


Me: Oh. Well, then. Thank you for your time... 
Me: Just kidding, though I don't deny that I'm disappointed. Anyway, I'm sure that you are constantly asked, "Where do you get your stuff?" So, where do you get your stuff?"

Dan: Little vintage elves stock my racks and shelves with goodies daily.


Me: Okay, I guess...
Me: I'm looking around your store and you have a very keen sense of style and taste. I've read your yelp reviews and they are very impressive. http://www.yelp.com/biz/wilbur-vintage-and-designer-clothing-philadelphia
What should I know about your store if I'm a first time customer?


Dan: Don't leave without spending at least $200.00.

Me: If people read this blog, and why wouldn't they, will you offer them any sort of discount for mentioning it when they buy something at Wilbur Vintage? And will I get a kick-back?

Dan: Sure, Gail, everyone who mentions your blog will get 15% off their first purchase. And, as for your kick-back, I promise to read and comment on your blog daily.


Me: Thanks, you're a prince among men.

Wilbur Vintage is located at 716 S 4th street 4th between Bainbridge and Monroe in the Queen Village section of Philadelphia.
How to get there:
Walk. Or take the bus (horrors). Or take the subway Market-Frankford line (shudder) to 2nd and Market and still end up walking.
Prices: It's not a thrift store, so don't expect to walk away with things for mere pennies. However, everything is very reasonably priced.

store photo by  Winston J. Alford-Hamburg

 
Do:

• Feel free to ask Dan for his opinion - he's always honest and will tell you if what you're wearing is flattering.
• Check out his window displays - they are fresh and original.
• Make sure to take your time while looking through his jewelry and accessories. If you're not careful you may just miss that owl necklace that you've been craving.

Don't:

• Leave the door open. What, were you raised in a barn?
• Bring in food - first it's rude. Unless you brought enough to share with everyone. Second - it's dirty. No one wants to touch where your grubby hands smudged. 
• Speaking of grubby hands - if you bring your children don't let them run amok.
• Speak loudly on your cell phone. You're not that interesting.
• Just enter without saying hello. It's a civil pleasant environment. Please keep it that way.

Read more about Wilbur Vintage on his blog: http://wilburvintage.blogspot.com/