Unexpected Sightings

Written By Jim Murphy

I spotted the Philadelphia Seal on the ground and in the air

I was amazed to see this marvelous Philadelphia Seal while walking in South Philly. Cianfrani Park is one of Philly’s continual surprises, providing greenery and comfort in the middle of the city. Billy Penn would be proud. Photo by Jim Murphy, author of “Real Philly History, Real Fast.”

You never know when you’ll unexpectedly come across Philadelphia history or important city symbols.

I learned this for myself recently as I walked by Cianfrani Park near 8th and Fitzwater Street in South Philadelphia. Suddenly, I saw the Seal of Philadelphia jutting out of the greenery.

Who did this and how did it get here, I wondered

Turns out that it’s one of very few remaining original city seals. During demolition of the Fante-Leone public pool on Montrose Street in 2012, US Construction salvaged the sculpture from the exterior and donated it to the Friends of Cianfrani Park.

Working with conservators, Parks and Recreation, Councilman Mark Squilla and others, the Friends were able to gather enough funding to get the seal installed and make many other essential park improvements.

The seal certainly makes Cianfrani Park unique.

Interesting Oddities

  • Cianfrani Park was developed in the late 1960s on the site of two former schools: The Ringgold Grammar School and the James Campbell Public School.

  • At least two sources say the park was named for Vincenza Nardello Cianfrani, the mother of Henry J. “Buddy” Cianfrani, a powerful state representative and later senator. Cianfrani, who died in 2002, was convicted on federal charges of racketeering and mail fraud in 1977 and served time in prison.

  • When the park deteriorated, neighbors in 1993 created the Friends of Cianfrani Park and brought it back to life. Numbering over 100 people, the Friends developed a master plan, greatly improved the park, and made it the pleasant, active place it is today.

This artwork of the Philadelphia Seal comes from Wikimedia.

Symbols on the Seal

Seal: Two female allegorical figures flank the shield: Left figure: Symbolizes Peace with an olive wreath on her head; also Hope with the anchor in her hand; Right figure with the cornucopia: Symbolizes Plenty or Prosperity.

Above the Seal: Scales of Justice

Inside the Seal: A plough (or plow) represents agriculture, and a sailing ship symbolizes the city’s port and maritime commercial trade.

Below the Seal: “Philadelphia Maneto,” which translates to: Let Brotherly Love Continue.

This Philly seal is on the south side of the Ben Franklin Bridge. I noticed it while walking on Race Street. Photo by Jim Murphy.

Jim Murphy
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