Franklin Square

Franklin Square Fountain Renamed in Honor of Ed Rendell

The 185-year-old fountain was renamed in the former Philadelphia mayor and governor's honor after Rendell helped re-open the park in 2006

NBC Universal, Inc.

A famous Philadelphia fountain was renamed in honor of one of the most famous living Philadelphians.

On Wednesday, the fountain in the center of Franklin Square was dedicated and renamed to honor Ed Rendell, a former mayor of Philadelphia and former Pennsylvania governor.

The ceremony was held during a fundraising event hosted by Historic Philadelphia, Inc. -- the non-profit that manages and operates Franklin Square.

In his time as governor, Rendell worked with Historic Philadelphia Inc. in an effort to reopen Franklin Square in 2006.

In a statement, organizers said that Rendell's efforts helped turn Franklin Square from an "ignored and dilapidated public space to the important and beloved 7.5-acre green space that welcomes over 195,000 visitors annually."

Organizers noted that the 185-year-old Franklin Square Fountain is "the oldest refurbished and functioning fountain in the United States and is the longest surviving fountain in one of William Penn’s original five squares in Philadelphia."

The fountain was originally constructed in 1838, organizers said, noting that it was the centerpiece of Franklin Square in the late 19th century.

Contact Us