What’s Inside on the Lynn Miller, www.lynn-miller.net

f the COVID-19 may choose from on or near pandemic largely defined the holiday named for him. OUSE I HThe Newsletter of 2020, it’s little wonder that Our judge of elections, our new year is still domi- Hopkinson House • Winter 2021 Linda Ellsworth, tells us how nated by humanity’s hopes it went on November 3rd for overcoming this terrible when, for health and safety virus. Contributors to this Message from Council reasons, our polling place issue have explored a variety was moved to our lobby Theresa Kowalski of topics that encourage from the solarium. readers to expand their you largely have to thank horizons, sometimes in our Joseph Quinn provides a yourselves for wearing immediate neighborhood, fascinating look at our near masks, washing your hands, sometimes as far as imagi- neighbor on Locust Street, keeping your distance and nation will take them. Musical Fund Hall, which waiting in elevator lines. was a premier cultural But let’s also thank all of Council president Theresa outlet for Philadelphia our employees for working Kowalski makes note of throughout most of the on the Hopkinson House important revisions to 19th century. Martha Cornog frontline: those who did our governing documents, returns with a brain-teasing the interminable cleaning and explains how our long- exploration of words that and disinfecting, those at awaited HVAC project is don’t exist in the English the front door and desk about to roll out. She also f you are reading this, language, but ought to. Iyou’ve successfully lived who managed a lot of our urges interested residents contact with the outside to become involved in the My offering considers through 2020 and the worst epidemic since the flu world, the maintenance work of Council, either the current effort to make workers who showed by becoming candidates Washington Square an in 1918. Given the number of people who live and work up every day to deal with in our April election, or by accredited arboretum, by an increasing number of volunteering their expertise way of a little history about in Hopkinson House, we’ve been extremely fortunate in leaks from our soon-to-be for particular projects. the trees in our front yard. replaced HVAC system, Concha Alborg discusses the low number of people Our building manager and Stephanie in the front a brand new book whose here who have contracted Erica Alles provides updates continued on page 2 theme is the French the coronavirus. For that, on several matters related to presence in our city from the running of Hopkinson Occasional Photo by Bari Shor its founding to the present; House. She offers sugges- I happen to be one of its tions for minimizing the two authors. noise we make in our own apartments, which can Our new representative disturb other residents, to the Society Hill Civic especially now that so many Association, Ramona Johnson, of us are home all day. See urges readers to become also our thanks to residents active in this valuable who’ve volunteered for neighborhood organization. projects that enhance our In her Chef ’s Corner, Jane lives at Hopkinson House. Hickman serves up recipes for two hearty winter soups, Martha Cornog gives us a sure to contribute to your useful directory of the many good health. ways to honor Martin Luther King, Jr. She suggests Thanks to Robin Siddall appropriate eateries, films, of Parallel Design, Inc., for Here’s our front yard in the winter. Find photos of the Square’s books, and experiences you designing this issue. n other seasons, as well as a history of its trees, on Page 20. 2 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

Message from Council continued from page 1

office who found us an HVAC Design and possible contractors were development, knowledge inside source for cleaning Construction able and willing to start of contracts or employment products, disinfectants, Some thought it would work immediately. Actual law, work experience masks and gloves. And, never come, but the construction on the re- with non-profit boards of course, there are our revision of the HVAC placement HVAC project or councils, and, of course, general manager Erica and system is slated to begin is still on target to start accounting, budgeting, our building manager Tony. construction mid-2021 mid-summer. Each of the auditing or finance. The entire COVID-19 possible construction firms and activity is picking up. Development of a strategic response was developed identified communication The contractor for the work plan for Hopkinson House and coordinated by both, with homeowners as one surface in the mezzanine will be another emphasis, in addition to their normal of the most important has begun to set up and probably in the second half work, plus the added work issues to be addressed in will begin construction on of the year. Anyone with of the HVAC project, order to roll out a successful that piece in early January. solid experience in this area conducting virtual meetings work plan. There will be a Our phenomenal project would be very welcome. and town halls, and intro- dedicated person who will manager, Ronald Street from If you have any special ducing our first electronic coordinate with the home- Northstar, has kept every interest or skill that you election. Not once did you owners to advise them of piece of the project organ- think could benefit the hear either of them say “it’s when their unit is sched- ized and moving along at a community, feel free to evening,” or “it’s nighttime,” uled to be worked in, and clip. You met Ron and our make a case for it. And or “it’s the weekend, and I’m what will have to be done design engineers, Howard if you can’t serve full-time not on.” Thanks to them all. beforehand, what resources Alderson and Drew McFadden on Council, consider being will be available, and how At least we won’t have of Alderson Engineering, a volunteer “consultant.” the work will proceed. 2020 on the calendar any if you attended the Zoom It would be great to have more. Let’s look ahead to webinar Town Hall. Financing for the project a list of people to call on 2021 and some of the first The design engineers from is going through a formal just for project work. quarter milestones we’ll underwriting review, and Alderson have completed Regarding COVID-19 be dealing with. the next six months will their early, preliminary work precautions, things won’t be the period during which and will be ready to start magically change overnight. HHOA Governing the actual final number will drawing shortly, at the same We still have many months Documents Revision start to come together. It time that the contractors of it ahead of us. We’ll need is not anticipated that the It’s hard to believe, but are brought on. The two to keep being careful about assessment will be finally Hopkinson House govern- groups will be working in where we go, wear our masks, computed until then and ing documents have not what’s known as a design wash our hands and stay we don’t expect to begin had a complete revision assist project delivery home if we’re sick. The collecting the assessment and update since the con- method, in which the vaccine is coming, but fee for at least another year. dominium converted from HHOA hires both the dis tribution hasn’t gone apartments. The initial design engineers and the Elections and Volunteers as well as hoped. I’m still part of this project by our construction team to work hoping that as many as legal counsel and Council closely together during the It’s never too early to possible do their part to is almost completed, and design phase. Bringing the start thinking of council develop herd immunity. within the next month or construction team on early elections coming up in And at least we’re done two will be distributed to helps to reduce the cost and April. Since the next with 2020! the homeowners for review. time for construction and newsletter doesn’t come One of the major improve- improve constructability. out until then, I’ll give May you all have ments will be the ability to The steering committee and my plug for people to run a safe and happy vote electronically and hold the design engineers inter- now. We need people who 2021!! n electronic meetings which, viewed construction engi- are emotionally invested when used this past year in neers, and reviewed their in Hopkinson House, and an emergency because of proposals and presenta- are here enough of the time the pandemic contributed tions during the end of to know what’s going on. greatly to a higher turn-out December. A final selection It would be good to have and many homeowners will be made in early general management expressing great satisfaction. January, and all of the experience, business ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 3 Message from Management Erica Alles

winter displays in the front please evaluate whether The December 2021budget planters to carry us over or not you have carpeting meeting was well-attended, until spring. covering 80 percent of your and good questions were floors as required by HHOA. asked by the membership. In recognition of the Consider putting plastic or Thank you to the Council many residents who are felt pads on the bottom of and Finance Committee now home (working from furniture legs—that noise for working on the new home or otherwise home really does travel when fur- budget which carries a more often) I thought I niture slides on your floor. 2.75 percent increase. should include a request And, consider headphones Our Assistant Manager for some patience and or earbuds when listening Fred Deal has been busy reetings of a fresh new good will toward neighbors to devices, or when on that meeting—and supporting year to all Hopkinson specifically regarding noises. Zoom meeting. Noises G —residents and addressing House residents. I hope Since last spring, the man- travel easily through walls. any concerns. He also this little article finds you agement office has received Everyone should expect supports our Council and well. In December we went more calls than ever about to hear occasional noises, committees with various through the motions and noises (which people are though I believe that paying projects as needed. decorated for the winter now hearing because they attention to small actions season, and the building are home to hear them, (do my cabinets make a The capital projects slated appeared to be in holiday and because people are now noise when they close? for 2020 were completed spirit. Some beautiful snow home to make the noises). Should I put a mat under within the year, despite the outside helped create a cozy We are in a multi-family my exercise/medical equip- pandemic-induced restric- feeling inside. While we living situation and this is ment?) can make a huge tions, thanks to Tony Kelly missed out on traditional especially critical during difference for someone else. and his team with their gatherings of people and these sensitive times. If you Thank you in advance for flexibility and persistence. parties, I imagine that some have not done so recently, your consideration. The sealing of the courtyard individuals got a glimpse of fountain has been delayed the holiday lights and décor Reflections of Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa due to weather and will in the lobby and might have be completed this spring. experienced a moment of cheer or nostalgia. I did. Please be on the lookout for the 2021 HHOA Thank you toNancy Gross census form and please for lighting the menorah on fill it out and return it, the first night of Hanukkah so we can maintain the and to Bonnie Silverman most current contact for tending to the candles information for you. on the remaining nights. Thank you to the staff Remember, if you have (Oliver, Lloyd and Stephanie) a renovation or any work for decorating and lighting planned for your unit, the Christmas tree, and please complete the placing the Kwanzaa candles renovation packet (found and harvest items on display. on Building Link or on Hopkinson House collected paper at the Resident 500 toys for children for Services Desk) and return the Salvation Army— it to Tony Kelly in one congratulations! complete submission for approval. Tony’s email is Fortunately, that HHOA [email protected]. tradition of generosity and kindness was not impacted Thank you. Happy New Year. by the pandemic. The Please contact the manage- Landscape Committee ment office with questions arranged for the beautiful and concerns. n 4 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

COSMETICPenn

we don’t just adhere to urgery cutting-edge cosmeticS procedures— we define them. Penn Plastic Surgery is committed to high quality, individualized care to help you look and feel your best, in the safest way possible. Our offices provide enhanced safety measures to protect our patients and staff, including practicing social-distancing in our waiting rooms.

We offer: • Cosmetic procedures • Skin care treatments such as microneedling and laser skin resurfacing and rejuvenation • Non-invasive procedures including fillers, Botox,® Kybella,™ Silhouette InstaLift,® and much more...

SCHEDULE A VISIT 610.902.1828 PennMedicine.org/Cosmetics ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 5 Our Very Own Library

f Hopkinson House’s GaNun, with assistance from As is fitting for a community be left in the basket by Omany resources, Kuna Yankell, has volunteered such as ours, rules for the door. She sanitizes perhaps the quietest and her time to organize the borrowing books are nearly new books before shelving most modest is the little shelves so that their con- nonexistent. Diane has them. She estimates that library located at the back tents are clear and logical. observed that residents she devotes a couple of of the upper solarium. Most of what’s on offer is typically take the books hours a week to keeping It holds more than 2,000 fiction, wherein mysteries to their apartments and our library in good order. books, all of which have and espionage are separated eventually return them, We add our thanks to that been contributed over the from general fiction. Smaller often adding supplements of Erica Alles in the last years by residents for other sections include memoirs, from their own shelves. issue of on the House for residents to enjoy. In recent history, advice, poetry, She is happy to accept the good work by Diane months, our neighbor, Diane travel guides, and more. donations, which should and Kuna on our behalf. n

Residents Show Gratitude to Our Staff

hen the holidays efforts to keep us safe. W approach at the end More than 200 residents of each year, residents of showed their gratitude for Hopkinson House are the frequent sanitizing of Newsletter Committee asked to contribute to a our public spaces and other Nelly Childress, editor emerita fund to provide extra cash public health measures by Lynn Miller, editor and to all of our hard-working holiday party, along with a contributing a substantial Committee Chair and dedicated staff. That letter expressing our appre- amount to the COVID-19 Concha Alborg ciation for their hard work. Martha Cornog effort also requires dedicated Appreciation Fund Drive Jane Hickman volunteers from among Unusually, because of to benefit our staff. Some Theresa Kowalski our residents to collect the the ongoing COVID-19 residents added cards and Joseph Quinn money and distribute it to pandemic, this holiday notes, a digest of which Council Liaison those who serve us. Last collection was actually the accompanied the distribu- Theresa Kowalski December, those volunteers second such effort in our tions, which were made Graphic Design were Bari Shor and Janet building in 2020. During in August. We give hearty Parallel-Design.com Burnham. They report a the summer, other volun- thanks to all the volunteers Advertising collection of $53,365 from teers—Megan Helzner, responsible for these two Theresa Kowalski some 335 residents. Bari Betta Kolansky and Laura funding drives, and we salute Photography Erica Alles Sadtler and Janet apportioned and —stepped up to the all the members of our staff Lynn Miller distributed these fruits of task of collecting gift funds for their extraordinary Joseph Quinn the Holiday Fund Drive as a way of saying thanks effort in an extraordinarily Bari Shor to the staff at their annual to our staff for their extra difficult year! n Issue Contributors Concha Alborg Residents Corner Martha Cornog Linda Ellsworth Jane Hickman Residents wishing to make addressed to “Editor, will not be accepted. Ramona Johnson comments or observations on the House” and give the The editor reserves Lynn Miller on the current issue may envelope to the employee the right to reject Joseph Quinn send them to: “The Editor,” at the Resident Services opinions/comments, etc., Hopkinson House Council [email protected]. Desk. Your comments will if they are deemed [email protected] Those who do not have be published in the next inappropriate or can Website Find past issues of a computer can place their issue of the newsletter. involve the association on the House at comment in an envelope Anonymous comments in legal troubles. www.thehopkinsonhouse.com 6 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

AMONG THE TOP IN THE NATION #1 IN PENNSYLVANIA

The Hospitals of the University of Pennsylvania-Penn Presbyterian are proud to be named to U.S. News & World Report's 2020-21 Best Hospitals Honor Roll.

Our commitment to improving the health and lives of those in our communities and beyond is at the heart of what we do.

Discover more at PennMedicine.org ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 7 Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 18th with Munching, Media, and More Martha Cornog his year, honor Dr. King Black and Mobile, a multi-city Barracoon: The Story of Blanche on the Lam, T on or near his holiday black-owned food delivery the Last “Black Cargo” and sequels by sampling edibles from business that services many (book, 2020) (books, reprinted 2014-2015) black-owned restaurants other Philly restaurants. In 1927-1931, anthropologist Pennsylvania native Barbara and checking out black www.blackandmobile.com/ Zora Neale Hurston interviewed Neely penned this addictive media. Suggestions follow, Cudjo Lewis, the last living four-volume mystery series, Media African brought to the United starring a full-figured black plus links relating to MLK The Philadelphia Day of Service projects. All except States on a slave ship. Her domestic worker who Tribune and Woke are fascinating account records sometimes skirts the law Food in East Philly available from the Free the only oral testimony but solves the crime. Humor Always contact a restaurant Library of Philadelphia; ever provided from an and biting commentary actual victim of the about relationships, both in advance to confirm for how to request, see: Atlantic slave trade. black and white. current arrangements. https://libwww.freelibrary.org /about/coronavirus Hot Comb Angry Deekin Rib (graphic novel, 2019) 1019 Spring Garden Street The Philadelphia Tribune With wit and hard realism, “Philly-style” BBQ/soul food The oldest continuously Ebony Flowers drew on her Delivery: Uber Eats published U.S. black-run own life for these fictional- www.angrydeekinribsonline.c newspaper comes out three ized vignettes that testify om/ times each week on paper, plus daily online updates to black hair’s uniqueness Baby Buns and a free daily e-newsletter. and to the many ways it The Bourse https://www.phillytrib.com/ is experienced. Beef, pork, chicken, and veg- LaGuardia gie burgers and sliders; fries Woke (graphic novel, 2019) Delivery: Caviar (TV series: Hulu, 2020-) Nnedi Okorafor’s playful sci-fi https://baby-buns.business.site/ A laid-back black cartoonist gets racially profiled and now allegory marries evocative art Bower Café with a wild imagination that can’t avoid seeing what he Black Heroes of the Wild West 263 South 10th Street comes off as both sad and had refused to acknowledge (graphic novel, 2020) Coffee café with open-faced hopeful. A creative commen- before. Live-action comedy- The REAL wild west was much sandwiches featuring veggies tary on xenophobia and recent commentary with animated more racially diverse than and cured meats U.S. immigration bans. touches. commonly recognized. All Delivery: restaurant www.hulu.com/series/woke- ages will enjoy these profiles https://bower-cafe.com/ Experiences 034909c6-8c46-4cad-8d0d- of a stagecoach driver, a U.S. African American Museum Reef Restaurant 062574a9e5f1 marshal, and a cowboy, all in Philadelphia 605 South 3rd Street former slaves. Members can sample Caribbean shellfish, oxtail, Black Man in a White Coat exhibitions online through jerk BBQ ribs, plenty of sides (book, 2016) a “virtual campus” and learn Delivery: Grub Hub A black psychiatrist, Damon of local events relating to https://www.phillyreef.com/ Tweedy, relates stories from the 2021 MLK Weekend Sazon Restaurant & Cafe his upbringing, medical edu- Celebration. 941 Spring Garden Street John Lewis: Good Trouble cation, and practice. A read- https://www.aampmuseum.org/ Home-style Afro-Venezuelan (film, 2020) Documentary able and deeply empathic Greater Philadelphia Martin cuisine about the late congressman, account of challenges both Luther King Day of Service Delivery; cash only a civil rights activist for more doctors and patients face— (volunteerism) http://sazonphilly.com/ than sixty years. and sometimes overcome. http://mlkdayofservice.org Harriet (film, 2019) Additional Possibilities Dramatic action/adventure www.visitphilly.com/articles/philadelphia/black- biopic about abolitionist owned-restaurants-to-seek-out-in-philadelphia/ leader Harriet Tubman, who helped more than 70 people Philly 2021 MLK events Events will also appear here: escape from slavery through www.visitphilly.com/articles/philadelphia/dr-martin-luther- the Underground Railroad. king-jr-day-of-service-events-in-philadelphia/

8 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

FOR THESE AMAZING COVID COMPLIMENTS THANK YOU FROM OUR BUYERS AND SELLERS DURING THESE CRAZY TIMES

Johanna and Jody are extraordinary and the very best realtors ever! They are incredibly focused and know the market. We used them to sell a property and it felt like we were their only clients-although we were by far only one of many-because they were always available and accessible. Sometimes it felt like they had answered my emails or text before I pushed the send button. They are very smart, talented and capable. I would highly recommend Johanna and Jody without reservation!!! Sara and Elihu Goren I would highly recommend Johanna Loke and Jody Dimitruk if you are looking to buy or sell quality Real Estate in Philadelphia. Our father passed away at the very beginning of the Covid crisis, leaving us to deal with rental property he owned in downtown Philadelphia. In addition to Covid restrictions, we all live over an hour away making active management much more difficult. The condo had been occupied by the same tenant for 17 years and needed extensive renovation work in order to get it ready for sale. Johanna and Jody were amazing! They took over property management and coordinated every aspect; from tenant relations, to finding an outstanding contractor (who completed the work in record time and on-budget), they supervised the construction ,helped to redesign the kitchen and bathrooms, picked out the fixtures and finishes, arranged for a staging company, and then professionally marketed the property. The on-line video and photo array was viewed hundreds of times, and our property sold at a price above our prediction! They are amazingly easy to work with, extremely professional and responsive. This whole experience was emotional for us, but Johanna and Jody understood the dynamics, and were compassionate and sensitive to our needs. My only regret is that (because of Covid) I was not able to give them a big hug and thank them personally for the amazing job they did. If I ever need to buy or sell property in Philadelphia again, there is only one team I would ever call. Michael J. Leventhal

Johanna and Jodi were exceptional in assisting with my home purchase (in the Rittenhouse area.) Their knowledge of the area, experience with the market, and responsiveness to my inquiries made them an incredibly efficient team. We have been clients of Johanna and Jodi in the past and return to them whenever we have real estate needs. They have consistently provided us with the most current information and assisted us in making best choices. Their knowledge, extensive experience, and patience, make them an efficient and enjoyable team to work with. Lisa and Judy Washington

Jody and Johanna were a delight to work with. We used them to facilitate renting our center city apartment ---to three different renters---as well as to sell this property. They are extremely professional, responsive, and caring. They anticipated our every need and attended to all the myriad details. We will miss working with them. Best wishes for health and happiness in this crazy world Michael and Andy Rieder Johanna and Jody-they are the best. They responded very quickly to my questions/requests. They were very efficient and orderly. As a first time buyer, I felt comfortable and hope to work on my next one with them too. (Sometimes they worked too hard-day and night, weekdays and weekends). Hyeron Helen Jeon

What a great job Jody Dimitruk and Johanna Loke of BHHS Fox and Roach Realtor did selling our Dad’s apartment during the COVID shut down. We sold the apartment sight unseen, due to the excellent online presentation of the property. They also helped us get through the remote paperwork and needed repairs. They were very responsive and helped move the closing along. As an executor for my Dad’s estate and living in another state, I found them an excellent local presence. Susan Monteverde

It was a pleasurable and profitable experience working with Jody and Johanna. They assisted in every aspect of the rehab of a center-city condo which I purchased with the intent of reselling. They worked hand-in-hand with the contractor selecting materials and overseeing construction. They performed an outstanding job and were able to secure a buyer within a month of listing. If you're looking for a knowledgeable team who are dedicated and responsive to your needs, I highly recommend these ladies. Robert H Levitt Just wanted to send a note to say thank you for all of your help getting our condo in Independence Place sold in the midst of the COVID pandemic. Your help navigating all of the social distancing rules and coming up with creative new ways to market our home to potential buyers who were unable to visit in person was invaluable. You helped us determine the right price and made every step of the process easy. Most of all, I can't say enough about what a pleasure it is to work with both of you. Thanks for always being available and going the extra mile to make our sale a success! Chris and David Arenson

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY Fox & Roach Home Services 112 S. 19th Street Suite 200, Philadelphia, PA 19103 215-546-0550 ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 9 November Election Voting in the Hopkinson House Lobby Linda Ellsworth, Judge of Elections he polling place for residents of the Lippincott T Ward 5 Division 3 Building, 500 Walnut re turned to Hopkinson House Street, The Lyndon at the for the general election Curtis Center, Saint James on November 3rd, 2020. Court, and the 200 block

Concerns about COVID- of South 7th Street. Of by Lynn Miller Photo 19 and not enough poll the 675 division residents workers meant that the who voted, more than division polling place for 75 percent (510) cast their the primary election in ballots by mail. Only 168 May was consolidated individuals voted in person, with six other divisions an average of about 13 at Alexander McCall voters per hour. At 7 a.m., School. After consultation when the polls opened, 20 priate social distancing for on a rainy day is not a nice with Hopkinson House voters were in line—the their health and security. thought. Also, there is management and Council, longest line all day. In the However, the lobby location limited lighting in the patio it was decided that the last hour, from 7 until 8 is noisy, thanks to residents area, which hadn’t been polling place could return p.m., there was one voter! going in and out on the ele- anticipated. Hopkinson if it was located in the lobby vators, having conversations House staff had to set up Voting in the lobby required rather than the solarium, with other residents, and special lights, so that voters everyone (even Hopkinson as it had been for most past making requests of staff who came after sunset House residents) to enter elections. (Voting machines at the front desk. didn’t have to fumble their the polling place through were in the lobby several way to the entrance. the south patio. This meant Weather could have a years ago during renova- that non-residents were not significant impact on this Many residents have asked tions to the mail room.) using the elevators to reach arrangement. We were if voting will be in the lobby Election Day was quiet the solarium—a plus for fortunate that it was a clear, in the future. That decision and the voting process was building security and for crisp November day with will be made before the quick and efficient. Although limiting the possible spread no rain or snow. There isn’t primary election scheduled most voters are Hopkinson of COVID-19. The set-up much space for voters to for May 18th, 2021. But we House residents, the num- in the lobby also meant that line up after entering the definitely plan to have the ber of non-resident voters it was easier for the election south lobby, and a line of polling place in Hopkinson is increasing and includes workers to maintain appro- voters waiting in the patio House again. n

Advertise in

Standard ad From your Our designs or if file sizes computer changes are needed Full page 7.25 x 9.675” $250 $270 Half page7 x 4.75” $175 $190 Quarter page 3.5 x 4.75” $100 $110 Eighth page 3.5 x 2.25” $75 $83

For ad reservation and payment questions, please contact Terry Kowalski at [email protected]. 10 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

Out of the 38,000 condos we’ve sold over the past 40 plus years, How many were at The HopkinsonHouse? Well over a thousand.

Looking to buy or sell ahome here? Call us.We’re Hopkinson House specialists.

PHILADELPHIA’S LARGEST SELLING CONDOMINIUM REALTOR WE COOPERATE WITH ALL REALTORS 1845 Walnut St. Suite 2200 Philadelphia 215.545.1500 allandomb.com [email protected] ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 11 Musical Fund Hall Joseph Quinn alking west on president. Dayton was cho- WLocust Street sen over another candidate you may have glanced at for VP: Abraham Lincoln. number 810 and wondered The Democratic ticket of about the significance of Buchanan and Breckinridge the words inscribed over won the election.) the entrance: Musical It would be hard to under- Fund Hall. estimate the importance It’s a free-standing, and centrality of this three-story building (with building and its founding basement), symmetrical organization, the Musical in design, of buff-colored Fund Society, in the cultural brick with Corinthian and social life of our city pilasters and decorative during the 19th and early terra cotta embellishments. 20th centuries. It does not announce itself Judge John K. Kane, the ostentatiously, but claims Society’s first secretary, its space with quiet dignity. records that it was estab- It’s crowned with a copper lished in 1820 for “the relief pediment; a lyre displayed of decayed musicians and Exterior of the Musical Fund Hall showing the 1847 renovations on the tympanum is another their families, and the by Napoleon LeBrun. Gleason’s Pictorial Drawing Room signal that this address has Companion (1854). Courtesy of The Athenaeum of Philadelphia. cultivation of skill and some connection with the diffusion of taste in music.” musical arts. In his indispensable study, A plaque on the building Annals of Music in Phila- proclaims that “this was delphia and History of the the first dedicated concert Musical Fund Society hall in Philadelphia.” A (1896), Louis C. Madeira Pennsylvania historical maintains that an important marker documents its goal of the Society was importance in American “to advance music to the political history as the loca- highest point, and to tion of the first Republican present to the public the Party national convention finest compositions, both to nominate a slate of can- sacred and secular.” didates, held in June 1856. The main topic debated at Madeira’s colorful history that gathering was the ex- is filled with historical tension of slavery into new insight, as well as flashes territories, opposed by the of wit. He notes that re- Republicans. As reported garding concerts in public, This is what it looked like at the time of the Republican conven- by the Evening Bulletin, “a “there was still a goodly tion in 1856. The caption at the bottom of the sketch reads: more important convention remnant of old prejudice,” “Republican Convention--Announcement of the Nominations at than the one in question has and “a suspicious taint still Musical Fund Hall, Philadelphia.” Scharf & Westcott. Free Library not been assembled in our clung to the professional of Philadelphia Digital Collections. city, perhaps not the coun- musician,” especially, it try, since the days of 1776.” seems to female musicians, as the Society felt it neces- “To prevent an inconvenience… it is (Historical Note: The party sary to resolve “That no nominated John C. Frémont most respectfully requested that ladies female professional mem- of California for president bers be admitted without attending the concert will avoid wearing and William L. Dayton a written certificate from of New Jersey as vice large bonnets or high head-dresses.” continued on page 13 12 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

For Sale by Allan Domb Real Estate

604 S. WASHINGTON SQUARE

Deluxe One Bedroom One Bedroom on High Floor South‐facing One Bedroom Combination of two adjacent units to create Lovingly cared for 1 bedroom on high floor South‐facing and spacious 1 bedroom, a deluxe 1 bedroom plus home office, featuring private terrace with city views, up‐ 1 bathroom offering a private terrace, 2 bathroom overlooking Washington dated kitchen, modern bathroom and brand parquet wood floors, incredible natural Square; this home has endless potential. new carpeting. light and excellent closet space. 1,443 sf | Offered for $550,000 1,003 sf | Offered for $329,900 1,003 sf | Offered for $259,000

Allan Domb Real Estate has been selling homes at Hopkinson House for over 40 years, and in that time, has sold more homes in Hopkinson House than any other REALTOR®. If I can help you with the sale, rental or purchase of your Hopkinson House condominium, please call me directly at 215‐545‐1500 or email me at [email protected].

Sun‐soaked One Bedroom Light‐filled One Bedroom Spacious 1 bedroom with incredible natural Light‐filled 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom on high Thank you, light, a private balcony and parquet wood floor with large balcony, unobstructed floors. Leased through 8/31/21. southern city views and washer/dryer. 778 sf | Offered for $289,900 778 sf | Offered for $259,500

Allan Domb Real Estate PHILADELPHIA’S LARGEST SELLING CONDOMINIUM REALTOR® WE COOPERATE WITH ALL REALTORS® 1845 Walnut Street, Suite 2200, Philadelphia, PA 19103 Phone: 215.545.1500 allandomb.com [email protected] ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 13

Music Fund Hall continued from page 11

auditorium, or “grand saloon,” featured a balcony, and could accommodate up to 1,500 listeners. The total cost, including lot, building, furniture and incidentals, came to $23,547.08. Vintage prints and photographs show a shoe- box-shaped room adorned with subdued but tasteful décor. Straight rows of simple pew-like benches, oddly reminiscent of a Quaker meeting house, face an elevated stage at one end. During the 19th and early 20th centuries the hall was constantly in use for a wide range of social and artistic Sketch of the Interior of the Musical Fund Hall by John Skirving. Thomas Ustick Walter Collection. activities. Crowds flocked Courtesy of The Athenaeum of Philadelphia. to hear renowned speakers and authors, including some lady of established “represents an unusual gained notice in theatrical Dickens, Emerson, and character in this city.” cross-section of the circles with his design for Thackeray. Philadelphia community the Second Chestnut Street Nor did ladies in the that includes professional Theatre (1822), which Over time it became a audience escape scrutiny, and amateur musicians.” accommodated up to 2,000 neighborhood gathering per this request: “To theatergoers in three tiers place for political meetings, prevent an inconvenience Unfortunately, the of boxes arranged in a horse- pageants, weddings, that has formerly been COVID-19 pandemic shoe formation. He would commencements, and complained of, it is most forced the Society to curtail achieve greater recognition holiday celebrations by respectfully requested celebrations of its bicenten- and fame for designing two the city’s many ethnic clans. that ladies attending the nial anniversary in 2020. other buildings that still Depending on the occasion, concert will avoid wearing But since its founding it grace our historic district. it might be thronged by large bonnets or high has maintained a robust For the Second Bank of laborers at a union meeting head-dresses.” and influential presence the United States (1824), (during the 1920s it was Of interest to Hopkinson in the city’s cultural life Strickland drew inspiration headquarters of the Phila - House readers, he refers by promoting concerts, from no less than the delphia Labor Institute), or to an amusing exchange sponsoring emerging Parthenon. He would later resound to the city’s social of correspondence, filled artists, and commissioning employ a similar Classical elite dancing and supping with musical puns, between new compositions. Revival vocabulary for at a glittering assembly. the Society’s secretary and In 1824, the Society the Merchant’s Exchange In 1847 there was a two members-elect: James acquired the “dilapidated” Building (1834). flare-up of racial animosity Henderson and one Francis ruins (and graveyard) of the After the first concert in when, after a performance Hopkinson, likely the son of Fifth Presbyterian Church the new hall on December by the abolitionist our building’s namesake. and selected one of its own 29, 1824, a reviewer, Hutchinson Family singers, Today the Musical Fund founding members, William Madeira notes, praised Mayor John Swift declared Society of Philadelphia Strickland, to convert it into the space as simple, elegant that “no Anti-Slavery lecture describes itself as “the a space suitable for formal and “exceedingly neat in its shall be delivered” and “no oldest continuing musical concerts and other public decoration… and admirably colored person may form a organization in the United gatherings. Strickland, a calculated for the conveyance portion of any audience.” States.” Their membership former scene-painter, had of sound.” The second-floor continued on page 14 14 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

Musical Fund Hall continued from page 13

It’s not clear exactly what first of several appearances Surely a high point occurred laudatory review appeared effect the ban had or for at the hall, the eighteen- on February 8th, 1841, the following day, and how long it was enforced. year-old budding contralto, when the American premiere reported: “The singers We do know that it presented featured as a member of was given, in concert form were in excellent voice… no barrier to the appearance the African-American and in English, of Mozart’s the audience demanded in the 20th century of such People’s Chorus, sang The Magic Flute, drawing an encore from every one.” celebrated African Americans Saint-Saëns' “My Heart music lovers all the way The Society’s own Germania as civil rights activist W.E.B. at Thy Sweet Voice.” from New York and Boston. orchestra presented regular Du Bois, poet Paul Laurence The program for the event, Miss Anderson claimed concerts in the hall between Dunbar, and, in what may given for the benefit of her place in a long and 1856 and 1868, introducing have been her public St. John’s Orphan Asylum, distinguished line of listeners to works by debut, Philadelphia’s was printed that day in fabled soloists and singers Beethoven, Haydn, Mozart own Marian Anderson. The National Gazette and who had graced the Hall’s and other European masters. Literary Register. It boasted On June 23rd, 1915, the stage. Jenny Lind, Adelina that “no expense has been The opening of the Musical Fund Hall was the Patti, and Maria Malibran, spared securing the services Academy of Music in site of a “Popular Benefit who were the toast of of the most distinguished 1857 inevitably stole the Concert to assist in Musical opera houses worldwide, Vocal and Instrumental spotlight from the Musical Education of Miss Marion thrilled enthusiastic Performers.” A long, [sic] E. Anderson.” In the audiences. continued on page 15

Interior of the Musical Fund Hall showing 1847 renovations by Napoleon LeBrun. Courtesy of The Athenaeum of Philadelphia.

In 1891, Addison Hutton also made renovations to the exterior of the Musical Fund Hall. Note the third story addition. This is essentially the façade still in place today, which was incorporated Renovations to the interior of the Hall were made in 1891 by into the condominium makeover in 1982. Courtesy of Addison Hutton. Courtesy of The Athenaeum of Philadelphia. The Athenaeum of Philadelphia. ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 15

Musical Fund Hall continued from page 14

Fund Hall. Sentiment the Philadelphia Labor had been building among Institute. From 1937 to the city’s cultural elite in 1942 boxing matches and favor of a new facility. other athletic events were One commentator sniffed on the bill. And in 1946 that the “Musical Fund it was acquired by a cigar Hall… was not a suitable company and converted auditorium for anything into a tobacco warehouse like grand opera.” The by architect Howard Academy’s Proceedings Carter Hill. refer, with a certain patrician In 1964 it passed into hauteur, to “the confusion the jurisdiction of the & personal exposure which Philadelphia Redevelop- all of us have witnessed in ment Authority, and suf- the neighborhood of the fered its final indignity in Musical Fund Hall.” 1980 when, due to serious The alluring new Academy, structural deterioration, it modeled after Milan’s La was declared “imminently Scala, became the preferred dangerous.” venue for musical events, Soon thereafter it was especially elaborate pro- acquired by a developer, ductions of grand opera gutted, and in 1982 and the fancy cotillions converted into condo - and assembly balls miniums. In a win for favored by the wealthy historic preservation, and socially prominent. Addison Hutton’s The Society moved its The Music Fund Hall today. Photo by Joseph Quinn. impressive 1891 façade Germania Orchestra remains for us to admire. performances to the The building was desig- Academy in 1868, and it Addison Hutton’s impressive 1891 façade nated a National Historic became a core element of remains for us to admire. Landmark in 1974. But as the Philadelphia Orchestra, of Music. LeBrun extended By the early 20th century, part of the condominium which gave its first concert the front of the hall by the hall’s glory days as a conversion, historic elements on November, 16th, 1900. 16 feet, thereby lengthening musical showcase were such as the auditorium and The history of the Musical it to 122 feet, enlarged fading, and it became balcony were removed. Fund Hall is one of visible and repositioned the stage more of a community As a result, the designation changes both inside and from north to south, and and recreational center. was withdrawn in 1989. out and the evolution of redesigned the façade. This The Philadelphia Inquirer However, it still retains a activities that occupied is the version of the Hall published an article on position on the National the space. Evidence of the that hosted the 1856 March 27th, 1921, Register of Historic Places. various transformations Republican Convention. lamenting that the “Music The next time you walk has been preserved and Hall May Soon Disappear.” In 1891, Addison Hutton past 810 Locust, take a can be examined in archives It went on to describe the changed the appearance minute to admire the and public records, many neighborhood as “deterio- considerably by adding a gracious exterior. Look available online. rating badly,” and “as near third story. He also replaced up until you can discern real slums as Philadelphia As early as 1847, the hall the arched windows with the lyre on the copper [has] to offer.” received its first makeover square ones, and redecorated pediment. Try to imagine by none other than Napoleon the interior in “Victorian Unable to keep up with a time when the building LeBrun, who would later style.” Two years later he the costs of maintenance resounded with glorious design the building that completely rebuilt the and staff salaries, the music and played an indeli- would hasten the hall’s frontage, which is essentially Musical Fund Society ble role in Philadelphia’s eclipse—the Academy the one still in place today. sold the hall in 1924 to cultural history. n 16 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

SMART RESPONSIVE EXPERIENCED Bari Shor Real Estate MatchMaker

Whether you’re selling or buying a home in amazing Center City, Bari Shor cares and delivers for you. I am your neighbor, let me be your Realtor,® too!

215-287-5260 [email protected] 215-627-6005 ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 17 Loss for Words? Martha Cornog weetstorm, selfie, cosplay, ummer, another joke word, Bereaved parent just doesn’t deaths of two of his children. Tincel—these new words as in: “Mom, Dad, I’d like seem specific enough. (Composer Gustav Mahler popped up in the last few you to meet my—um, er...” Indeed, linguist Judith set five of the poems to decades. The scholarly Kaplan has described music.) In one poem appears The coy ladyfriend and journal American Speech an acquaintance who the phrase: “there we sat, gentleman caller conjure used to run a feature titled felt her very identity orphaned parents.” But earlier eras, but can still be “Among the New Words,” was challenged by the the expression wasn’t mobilized for a slightly racy and the Merriam-Webster absence of such a word. popularized until a 1978 effect. Companion implies dictionary folks post their English-language book by a subordinate, supportive own lists online each year. Kaplan’s acquaintance has Harriet Schiff, titled The role, not necessarily The English language numerous sympathizers, Bereaved Parent, appeared romantosexual. continues to expand, judging from Internet in German translation as reflecting our new ways Today, many people use exchanges among multi- Verwaiste Eltern. German of acting and thinking. simply partner, but that lingual speakers. Apparently, self-help groups welcomed can refer to a business only a few languages do have the idiom, and formed an But what’s interesting are relationship. Some duos words: Arabic, Hebrew, association: Das Bundes- the words that have NOT fall back on fiancé/fiancée Chinese, and German. ver band Verwaiste Eltern appeared in these features without intending to tie —Federal Association of or dictionaries, words or Arabic and Hebrew are the knot. Boyfriend and Orphaned Parents. expressions that could both Semitic languages, girlfriend are old standbys, help us nail down concepts so perhaps it is no surprise Concerned Internet but the terms don’t imply that we refer to all the time, that those words sound wordsters have proposed long-term and may not but not currently with apt somewhat similar. In Arabic, various English neologisms; appeal to older couples. or precise language. Let’s thakla is a mother whose kithlorn, mommow/daddow A waggish drinking buddy look at some of my favorite child has died, thakil (mom/dad/widow), mor- used to refer to his live-in words that don’t exist in a father. Hebrew uses phan/forphan (mother/- lady as “my future ex-wife.” American English... yet. adjectives: shakula to father/orphan), tethlimom Yes, they fought a good bit! describe such a mother, (based on a Greek word), I suppose mate isn’t bad, A word for one’s shakul for a father. and vilhomah (repurposed but it can imply male-male significant other from a Sanskrit word). collegiality. Mistress and The Chinese shīdú fùmǔ without marriage Perhaps following the lover have charm, but imply (“lose-only-[child]” parents) In the late 1970s, the U.S. German approach would the relationship is only came into use recently after Census Bureau decided to be easiest, but the field sexual. Better half seems the country’s former one- count couples cohabiting is certainly open to more both old-fashioned child policy left at least together, using the sanitized ideas. Reave-mom (“be- and derogatory. a million aging parents phrase, “person of opposite alone when that child died. reaved mom”), perhaps? sex sharing living quarters.” Concha Alborg tells me Shīdú parents get a modest A word for someone This acronymized to that Spanish uses mi pareja, government subsidy, POSSLQ (pronounced literally, “my couple,” but related through a but nothing replaces significant other when “poss-el-kyew”), which understood as the person the personal support drew jokes and giggles until coupled up with the speaker. “step-” or “in-law” of a daughter or son. A expressions don’t work the Bureau replaced it with As for English, would life reportedly common saying the blander, “unmarried partner work? What words in China: “the white-haired Once upon a time, nearly partner.” Now, POSSLQ or expressions have you ones see off the black- everybody married some- taken literally would also heard or used yourself? haired ones.” one of the opposite sex include housemates for life, and the words for keeping separate bedrooms A word for a parent The Germanverwaiste collateral relationships thus and separate love lives. whose child has died Eltern translates literally established have “in law” Moreover, not all significant I know a couple whose only as “orphaned parents.” after them. But spouses did others share domiciles. child passed away several The expression was coined die in childbirth (women) Certainly, neither POSSLQ years ago, and they both by 19th-century poet and war (men), and folks nor unmarried partner lament that no English Friedrich Rückert in his did remarry, so we’ve long attracted fans among word or expression parallels Kindertodtenlieder, over had step-father and step- English speakers. Nor has widow or widower. 400 poems mourning the continued on page 19 18 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

PA. H.I.C. Reg. #PA061648 ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 19

Loss for Words? continued from page 17

mother for the new parent, what words does the (like Momala), a parental [name], bio dad, step-sister/brother for the child use? The children word from another language, or a nickname. new sibling. of Kamala Harris’ husband (like the French maman), Now as for use Momala, a play on and simply using first Much more commonly in-law expres- Harris’ name plus a Yiddish names—more typical with today, living partnerships sions, different diminutive for mother. older children. But judging split and then reform with challenges Ye t in other families, it from Internet comments, new mates and their kids await. How becomes a struggle among bad feelings do bubble up. previously sired. And does one refer what the various parents Supposing, for example, sometimes there wasn’t to the ex-wife want and what the child the step-mom does more much partnership to begin of one’s life may want. Is one parent and better mothering than with. Hence, the new words partner? I mother and the other one the bio-mother, and wants babydaddy and babymama, used to refer to momma? No one likes to be called mother or meaning your child’s other Maria as “my stepmother. similar, but other adults in bio-parent whom you’ve sister-in-law,” the family won’t hear of it. never married and aren’t Four patterns seem to since “my late Letting the children choose partnered with. be emerging for the step- husband’s ex- the words has been widely But when parents repartner, parent term: a different wife” seemed recommended. and one or both have common word like momma like too much children, the search for vs. mother or mummy, a In gay families with same- information. words becomes creative combination of a common sex parents, similar patterns We became friends, you and sometimes contentious. word for “mother” or are emerging. Sometimes see. And it doesn’t seem like If there’s both a biological “ father” plus the person’s the sperm donor may also much more of a stretch mom and a stepmother, name or other word get a special name like uncle than widowed parents. n

Hi Tech. Hi Touch. A Winning Combination–in Person and on the Web!

JUST LISTED & JUST SOLD UNDER CONTRACT #2607 - $369K - Beautifully upgraded Deluxe 1 Bedrm/ #2004 - $199K- L-Shaped Studio (600 sq ft) 1 Bath (1,003 sq ft) with Balcony off Living Room, with Separate Sleeping Alcove and Separate Office Completely Upgraded Kitchen, Bath with Stall Shower, overlooking Washington Square – BRAND NEW Moldings throughout, all new Baseboards throughout, HARDWOOD FLOORS and Unit Freshly Painted. Wainscoting in Hall, Washer/Dryer. HOPKINSON HOUSE UNIT FOR RENT JUST REDUCED JUST LISTED #1204 - $1,425 - L-shaped studio #504 - $215K - L-Shaped Studio with Sleeping Alcove (600 sq ft) with sleeping alcove overlooking (600 sq ft) with BALCONY OVERLOOKING WASHINGTON Washington Square with Hardwood Floors, SQUARE! Upgraded Kitchen and Bath, Freshly Painted. Newer Kitchen and Bath - Available Immediately. Buying? Selling? Please call or email your neighbor,

Rosemary Fluehr Associate Broker, GRI

215-514-9884 – Cell [email protected] www.rosemaryfluehr.com – Direct 215-440-8195 530 Walnut Street, Suite 480 215-627-6005 – Office Philadelphia, PA 19106 20 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE The Glorious Trees of Washington Square Lynn Miller hen we residents Wof Hopkinson House have strolled through Washington Square recently, we must

have noticed that many of by Lynn Miller Photos the magnificent trees in our front yard sport new labels giving us their botanical and familiar names. The labeling is the work of a volunteer committee under the auspices of the Society Hill Civic Association and the National Park Service (NPS) to have our venerable park accredited as an official arboretum. That certification will place our square in a world-wide register of arboreta. Labeling the trees is one step in that process, as explained by Sherley Spring Young, the Society Hiller who is co-chair of that arboreta, the highest in long pits thirty feet deep selected by a prominent committee. She works with category. that were dug, first, along French botanist, François- officials at Independence Seventh and Walnut André Michaux. As a Although Washington National Historical Park Streets and, when those young man, he had traveled Square has been an open (INHP), which took charge filled up, on the south side. across the new nation with space from the day that of our square in 2005, to The last burials were in his father, the royal botanist Philadelphia was first secure accreditation. Only 1793, when the worst to King Louis XVI, who dreamed up by William some paperwork remains yellow fever pandemic in had sent him to America Penn in the 1680s, it was to complete the application. our history swept the city. to study native species of not always a beautifully In the next decades, the plants. Twenty years after Once that is done, manicured park. For a land took on the nickname Michaux fils planted our Washington Square should century and more after “Congo Square” when it front yard, the noted land- become a Level I Arboretum our founder designated became a gathering place scape architect, Andrew as designated by the ArbNet Southeast Square as one for Philadelphia’s African Jackson Dowling, wrote Arboretum Accreditation of the four he placed Americans, who often sang that Washington Square Program. That would in each quadrant of his and danced while visiting contained “more well- place our park in the same planned city—a fifth, at the graves of their friends. grown specimens of forest category as the arboreta the center, is where City trees than any similar space at the Philadelphia Navy Hall stands today—this In 1825, the city officially of ground in America.” An Yard, Germantown Friends land served as a burial named each of Penn’s arboretum in all but name School, and Chanticleer ground for paupers and squares after a prominent had been established. In Gardens in Wayne. Higher a public common where historical figure, giving 1915, a count was made levels of classification require sheep and cattle were Southeast Square the name of the number of trees the arboretum to maintain grazed. A stream, a gulch, of the nation’s first president. from that original planting a paid conservation staff or and two rough roads ran Turning it into a landscaped which still survived. to participate in scientific through it. During the park was the next step. activities regarding trees. American Revolution, By 1833, symmetrical walk- Approximately 104 In our area, Longwood as many as two thousand ways and trees were planted varieties remained. Gardens and the Morris British and American in a design we can still see Although the NPS has Arboretum are Level IV soldiers were buried today. The trees were continued on page 21 ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 21

twice a week by telephone during the growing season, and once a month when the beds are fallow. Their mutual goal, she says, is to establish three seasons- worth of interest, from spring through autumn, using only native plants. It’s a mammoth task, considering that the short- est of the park’s fifteen beds is 75 feet in length. But the results of our neighbors’ sweat equity are most impressive, as any of us can attest who’ve admired the changing blooms through- out the past year. The displays have been a far cry from the day, which some long-term residents will Summer remember, when our park was sadly neglected. Then a walk across Washington Square seldom drew your eye to its blossoms, which were few and far between. So, applause to the groundskeepers at INHP and especially to the Society Hill volunteers who are doing so much to maintain and improve our park. While it should soon be designated a world-class arboretum, Washington Square is already a world- class amenity for all of us who live around it. Never has that been clearer than in the past year when we’ve had to live with the COVID- 19 pandemic. Our park has been our haven and a peaceful refuge for many Autumn fellow-citizens, who have flocked to our outdoor liv- planted dozens of new These days, the volunteers beds that line the brick ing room for respite. Thank saplings in recent years, a who have been shepherding wall of the park’s perimeter. you, William Penn, and great many trees a century the arboretum project have Sherley Young and her co- thanks to all who are help- and more old still tower also supervised the planting chair, Fred Manfred, meet ing to make our park a overhead. and replanting of the flower with INHP staff members beautiful year-round oasis! n 22 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE Review: Lynn Miller and Therese Dolan, Salut! France Meets Philadelphia, a Tour de Force Concha Alborg, www.conchaalborg.com alut! France Meets influenced by French dear general, your SPhiladelphia (Temple philosophes from the start. respectful and University Press, 2020) by William Penn studied in sincere friend Lynn Miller and Therese France, where he became (p. 29). Dolan is a gorgeous book well acquainted with the For residents of about the French influence Protestant Reformation, historic Society in our city’s history and the Enlightenment and Hill, the refer- culture from its foundation the beliefs of the Society of ences to nearby to the present times. Friends, all crucial elements buildings, like Beautifully written and of Philadelphia’s history. our next door illustrated with countless Given the animosity between neighbor Holy photographs taken by Britain and France, due, Trinity Church, Lynn, it contains thirteen in part, to the French help Saint Joseph’s chapters, an introduction to the revolutionary cause, Church, and a conclusion, with copi- by the time Philadelphia Washington ous endnotes, an impressive became the capital of the Square, the bibliography and an index. new American nation— Athenaeum, between 1790 and 1800— Therese Dolan and Lynn the American 10 percent of its inhabi tants Miller decided to collaborate Philosophical were French. on this book when both Society and many twentieth century and served on the board of the Among the many historical more historical edifices inspired by the Champs- Alliance Française de Phila- figures examined in the are poignant and relevant. Elysées, and Logan Square, delphie. Given professor book, the Marquis de similar to the Place de la Not surprisingly, the Dolan’s expertise in arts Lafayette stands out due Concorde in Paris. Both architecture of the city was and architecture and pro- to his relationship of filial were designed by Paul highly influenced by French fessor Miller’s in political affection for President Philippe Cret. aesthetics. Napoleon Le science, their collaboration George Washington. Brun, for example, son of Cret, a native of Lyon, seemed like a perfect idea. The young Lafayette was Napoleon’s ambassador to joined the faculty of the And, indeed it was; Dolan an orphan and Washington the United States, was the University of Pennsylvania is the author, among other treated him like the son architect of the Cathedral in the early twentieth publications, of Manet, he never had. Lafayette, in of Saints Peter and Paul, century and was responsible Wagner, and the Musical turn, named his first-born the Academy of Music for the design of Rittenhouse Culture of Their Time son Georges Washington. and the Musical Fund Hall Square, the Philadelphia (Routledge, 2018) and All throughout the book, on nearby Locust and 7th. Zoo, the chemistry building Miller’s latest book is City I was impressed by the rele- Memorial Hall, built in at the University of Penn - in a Park: A History of vance of the textual quotes, 1876 to commemorate sylvania, the Benjamin Philadelphia’s Fairmount which brought the history one hundred years since the Franklin Bridge and the Park System (Temple alive. Take this example signing of the Declaration Henry Avenue Bridge University Press, 2015) from one of Lafayette’s last of Independence, was among over the Wissahickon. in collaboration with letters to Washington: the first in America in the Cret, with Jacques Gréber, James McClelland. The sails are just going to French Beaux-Arts style, another French native, The first five chapters be hoisted, my dear General, while Philadelphia’s City also planned several other of Salut! France Meets and I have but the time of Hall, from the same date, buildings in the French Philadelphia, deal with taking my last leave from belongs to the French Beaux-Arts style, such as the historical events that you… I hope your French Renaissance Revival. the Rodin Museum. In shaped the development of friend will ever be dear to But the most iconic of fact, as illustrated in Miller the new American nation you… and tell you myself all French-inspired archi- and Dolan’s book, the list from colonial times to its with what emotion I now tectural spaces remains of French-influenced foundation. Despite being leave the coast you inhabit, the Benjamin Franklin buildings and sculptures fundamentally a British and with what affection and Parkway, dating from in Philadelphia is endless. colony, Philadelphia was respect I’ll forever be, my the first decades of the continued on page 23 ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 23

Book Review continued from page 22

Think of the three Eakins studied at the to the photographs taken restaurant renaissance, generations of Calders: Pennsylvania Academy by Lynn Miller, there are which owes much to the eldest created the statue of Fine Arts, but like so numerous illustrations of French gastronomy led by of William Penn atop City many other American famous paintings housed famous chefs like Georges Hall; his son, Alexander artists, his studies in the in museums from around Perrier. Philadelphia may Stirling Calder, created French capital would the world and, more not be as French as New the Swann Fountain in modernize his style by importantly, many found Orleans or Quebec, but it’s Logan Square; and painting everyday occur- in private collections that rich with French traditions, grandson Sandy Calder’s rences en plein air, as did enrich our knowledge. culture and food, without mobile hangs in the grand his Parisian counterparts. forgetting the excellence A book about the hall of the Philadelphia He accomplished this and of many Francophiles. French artistic influence Museum of Art. much more in his famous And, after all, we have in Philadelphia would “Max Schmitt in a Single a Quebecois, Yannick Being an art lover myself, not be complete without Skull,” first exhibited at Nézet-Séguin, as the I found the detailed a chapter on the extensive the Union League in 1871. director of the Phila- descriptions of the paint- collections of the Phila - delphia Orchestra. ings and comparisons with The chapter dealing with delphia Museum of Art, their European models read Mary Cassatt and Henry the Rodin Museum and I would recommend Salut! like a museum tour with an Ossawa Tanner is also the Barnes Foundation. France Meets Philadelphia expert docent. See the por- memorable. Both of these The Barnes, originally to all lovers of our city— traits of the aforementioned artists considered themselves built by Paul Cret in our neighborhood in Lafayette and George Philadelphians but found Lower Merion, owns more particular—and of French Washington on page 55, their well-deserved fame Renoirs and Cézannes than culture in general. What for example. One of my in France where women are owned in all of France! an escape to read this book favorite chapters deals and people of color met The last chapter of the about cultural connections with Thomas Eakins. with less prejudice than book deals with present in the midst of these anx- A Philadelphia native, in America. In addition day Philadelphia and its ious and isolated times! n

You are invited to join Washington Square Citizens League Washington Square Citizens League is a nonprofit organization with more than 140 members. The vast majority of the members live in Hopkinson House. Activities include: Monday Afternoon Discussion Group Monthly Evening Programs Book Club Reel Discussion Theater Discussion Group Socials, including potlucks and dinners at La Buca Membership Fee: $10 per year. If you are not a member and would like to join, contact Susan Tomita at (215) 925-8464, or [email protected] or find a link to the membership form at https://thehopkinsonhouse.com/activities/ 24 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

711 Locust St | (215) 928–0556 Since 1980 Happy Hour Monday –Friday 4:30 – 6:30pm Hours of Operation Monday 4:30 – 10 p.m. Tuesday –Friday 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. Saturday 4:30 – 10 p.m. Sunday Closed Handicap Accessible ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 25 The Society Hill Civic Association Is Here for Hopkinson House Residents Ramona Johnson

am pleased to be the Here are just some of the The SHCA sponsors the IHopkinson House things that the Society Hill Washington Square Affair, community’s liaison to Civic Association does for a fund-raiser to help the the Society Hill Civic our quality of life: National Park Service to Association (SHCA), maintain the park and The SHCA pays the Center stepping into the role that preserve its rich beauty. City District to keep our Concha Alborg filled before sidewalks clean and spon- Visit the website at moving up to become the sors spring and fall neigh- http://societyhillcivic.org/ to board member now serving borhood clean-up days. learn more about the work on the SHCA board as a of the organization, and District Director for the SHCA contracts with a join me in supporting it northwest quadrant of graffiti removal expert to with your membership. Society Hill. keep our surrounding SHCA pays the Center City neighborhood free of District to sweep our side- There are several levels With my husband Curt, graffiti and stickers. walk debris on Mondays of membership, beginning I moved to the Hopkinson and Fridays. at the Senior/Student rate House in 2014 when we An active Tree Tenders of $40/year. downsized from our house group is part of SHCA. to local happenings. The newsletter has been espe- You can sign up via the in Queen Village where we There is a “Fix the Brix” cially useful to us during website with a credit card at had lived since 1975. As a program that offers a this pandemic because it https://societyhillcivic.org/. bonus, living at Hopkinson subsidy to maintain the includes an up-to-date list Or if you’d prefer, you can House kept us close enough safety of the picturesque of local restaurants offering send a check. The website to be able to keep our old sidewalks that we all use. friends as well as make new take-out and delivery. provides the address and a friends in our new home On a bi-monthly basis, This list alone justifies membership form that can here. The proximity to our SHCA publishes the the cost of membership. be completed and mailed. Society Hill Reporter and old neighborhood made it And of course, SHCA Please contact me, makes it available to all of us. a smooth transition, and it supports the maintenance [email protected], has been easy to settle into Welcome Baskets are and beautification of our if you have any issues or the Society Hill neighbor- delivered to new residents. favorite park, the historic concerns that you’d like to hood of which we are now If you are a new property Washington Square. pass along to the SHCA. n a part. For me, the Society owner, you’ll receive a basket Hill Civic Association is a of goodies including fresh vital part of the neighbor- foods, information and gift hood, and membership in cards for local places. the organization is a means of doing my part to support The weekly e-newsletter the work of enhancing and sent to all members is one preserving this extraordi- of my favorite benefits. nary place. It keeps us informed as

SHCA provides funds and volunteers to help keep Washington SHCA pays for immediate removal of graffiti on public spaces. Square beautiful for visitors and residents alike. 26 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE Winter Soups to Warm You Up Chefs’ Corner Jane Hickman

elow are two of my tritious turkey soup. If you and easy to make: Julia Note: If you have a favorite B favorite winter soups. don’t want to use turkey, Child’s leek and potato soup. recipe, we would love to test Both produce excellent left- you can substitute chicken, With a few ingredients and it and put it in this column. overs for a second dinner or ground turkey, or even a short cooking time, this Send your recipes or requests lunch, and both freeze well. beans for a vegetarian soup. soup can be made just to [email protected]. The first is a hearty and nu- The second soup is quick before dinner. n Thank you!

Turkey, Kale, and Brown Rice Soup After recipe by Giada Laurentiis Ingredients Directions 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Heat the oil in a large pot 5 to 6 large shallots, chopped over medium-high heat. 3 medium carrots, cut into ½-inch pieces (about 1⅓ cups) Add the shallots, carrots, and bell pepper and sauté, 1 red bell pepper, cut into ½-inch pieces (about 1 cup) stirring frequently, until the 8 ounces turkey meat, cut into small pieces (about 1 cup) vegetables begin to brown (Substitute chicken, ground turkey, or beans!) and soften slightly, 8 to 1 tablespoon Herbs de Provence 10 minutes. Add the turkey teaspoon salt and the 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, plus more as needed or chicken and stir until the freshly ground black (Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian soup.) meat begins to color very slightly around the edges, pepper. Reduce the heat 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes in juice, drained to medium-low. Cover and 1 cup cooked brown rice 5 to 7 minutes. (If using beans instead of meat, simmer until the vegetables 1 small bunch kale, coarsely chopped (about 4 packed cups) add them now.) Add the are tender, about 15 minutes. 1 teaspoon kosher salt Herbs de Provence and Season with the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt. ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper stir, 1 minute. Add 4 cups ¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley broth, tomatoes, and rice. Ladle the soup into bowls. ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan, optional Bring to a boil. Stir in the Sprinkle each serving with kale and season with ¾ parsley and Parmesan.

Leek and Potato Soup Directions bring to a simmer. When After recipe by Julia Child Melt the butter in a large, the liquid is smooth and heavy-bottomed 3- or 4- starts to thicken, stir in the Ingredients quart saucepan. Stir in rest of the water or broth, then add the potatoes and 2 tablespoons butter the leek and onion pieces to coat with butter, cover season with salt and pepper. 3 cups sliced leeks, white and palest green parts, trimmed, the pan, and reduce the Quickly heat the soup to a and carefully rinsed to remove dirt heat. Cook slowly, stirring gentle boil, cover the pan, 1½ cups sliced onions occasionally, for 10 to 15 and lower the heat. Simmer 2 tablespoons flour minutes, until the vegetables for about 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. 6 cups water (or chicken broth) are very soft but not colored. Uncover, sprinkle on the Mash, blend, or purée 4 cups peeled, diced potatoes, preferably russets, flour, stir to distribute it cut into 2-inch chunks (about 1 ½ pounds) the soup to the desired well, and cook for two consistency and adjust the 1½ teaspoons salt, or to taste minutes over moderate seasonings. If you are using ½ teaspoon pepper, or to taste heat. Remove from heat a blender, let the soup cool Optional garnish: chives or parsley and let cool for a moment. for a few minutes before Stirring continually, blending. Serve the soup. gradually pour in 1½ cups Optional garnish: chopped of the water or broth, and chives or parsley. ON THE HOUSE · WINTER 2021 · 27

Let’s plan to make your home 20+ Years Experience more beautiful!

Call your Hopkinson House neighbor Steven Aaron for a Free Estimate. Aaron Painting Owner-Operator Interior | Exterior | Decorative Finishes Custom Faux Finishes | Cabinet Refinishing

Professional | Reliable | Local | Insured

215-613-9711

28 · WINTER 2021 · ON THE HOUSE

Some of our most recent sales at Hopkinson House 2407 | 2515 | 513 | 2605 2707‐09 | 1517‐18 | 2710 | 1809 1315 | 1209 | 605 | 1513 Thinking about buying or selling a Hopkinson House condominium? Call us. We get the job done.

@AllanDombRealEstate @AllanDomb @AllanDomb Allan Domb Real Estate PHILADELPHIA’S LARGEST SELLING CONDOMINIUM REALTOR® WE COOPERATE WITH ALL REALTORS® 1845 Walnut Street, Suite 2200, Philadelphia, PA 19103 Phone: 215.545.1500 allandomb.com [email protected]