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