Synopses & Reviews
Philadelphia is a city of icons. From its “City of Brotherly Love” motto to the symbols of American democracy, it is replete with images that resonate deeply in the psyche of its citizens, if not the country. And while some of its traditions have been exported far and wide, there is no doubt about what constitutes the “real thing.”
Philadelphia Icons illustrates the quintessential symbols that make the City of Brotherly Love fascinating and unique.
Profiled here are fifty classic symbols of this extraordinary city, revealing little-known facts, longtime secrets, and historical legends. From Betsy Ross to the Philadelphia Zoo, heres the inside story about the very things that give this city its character.
Did you know that the Philly cheesesteak was invented in 1930 by Pasquale “Pat” Olivieri, a hot-dog vendor who went on to dub himself the “King of Steaks”? That Chinatown had its start in 1860, when Lee Fong opened a Chinese laundry at the corner of Ninth and Race Streets? That City Hall, whose exterior is adorned with no less than 250 sculptures, was once called “the most disreputable and disrespected building in Philadelphia”? For Philadelphians and newcomers alike, Philadelphia Icons will be a treasured keepsake of this historic city.
Synopsis
Philadelphia Icons celebrates the City of Brotherly Love through photographs and essays highlighting 50 of the best places, inventions, foods, buildings, and institutions the city has to offer. From the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall to cheese steaks and world-champion baseball, this book showcases what makes Philly Philly.
Synopsis
The Best of Philadelphia What makes Philadelphia, Philadelphia? With this entertaining collection of photos, anecdotes, and little-known facts, find out the story behind fifty of the best known and beloved icons of the City of Brotherly Love.
30th Street Station
Art Museum
Benjamin Franklin
Cheesesteak
Independence Hall
Liberty Bell
Quakers
Reading Terminal Market
And much more!
Native Philadelphians and first-time visitors alike will cherish this timeless celebration of Philadelphias incomparable spirit.
About the Author
Karen Ivory, a former broadcast journalist in Philadelphia and New York, is a freelance writer happily based in the City of Brotherly Love.