Street Note

Street Note:
Memories of South Philly in the 50's & 60's
by Dorette Ligons-Ham

​Re-PLACE-ing Philadelphia is building an expanded archive of cultural memory that includes multiple histories, re-place-ing the established with new narratives and understandings. Notes consider place via the street, sound, food, trees, and other portals. 

​What is the Philadelphia you remember? Dorette Ligons-Ham submitted this note reflecting on South Philly in the 50's and 60's.

 

Happy and carefree, hanging with the crew.

Basketball, baseball, and swimming too.

Marion Anderson playground, the YW and YMCA,

So much to choose from on any given day.

South Street, 9th Street, and Penn’s Landing

Mummer’s parade and old relics still standing

Diverse communities filled with unusual things,

Many still visit to enjoy the pleasure they bring.

Vets Stadium, Spectrum, the Navy Yard’s new plans,

Thrill Show, Football and Hockey with diehard fans,

Games on all levels in school yards and streets,

Crowds gathered in parks to witness these feats.

Faithful churches always giving a helping hand.

Model citizens serving wherever they can.

People living together for the common good,

South Philly is by far the best neighborhood.

 

Street Notes
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