Swann Memorial Fountain
1924 by Alexander Stirling Calder
Description
The center of Logan Square belongs to a popular fountain sculpture by Alexander Stirling Calder, son of the City Hall artist.
Designed with architect Wilson Eyre, the work memorializes Dr. Wilson Cary Swann, founder of the Philadelphia Fountain Society.
Adapting the tradition of “river god” sculpture, Calder created large Native American figures to symbolize the area’s major local waterways: the Delaware River (a man), the Schuylkill River (a woman) and Wissahickon Creek (a girl).
Frogs, turtles, a fish and two swans — puns on the name of Dr. Wilson Cary Swann, the fountain’s namesake — complete the group.
Children love the playful frogs and turtles that spout water toward the 50-foot geyser in the center.
Details
19th Street and Logan Square
Logan Square
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Website
Neighborhood: Benjamin Franklin Parkway / Logan Square
Related Tags
In the neighborhood
Book online
Powered by TravelocityHotels
Flights
Car
Tix
Find us on Facebook
Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel
The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps
The Comcast Experience HD Video Wall – Comcast Center
The Liberty Bell Center
Terror Behind the Walls
Table 31
The Rittenhouse Hotel
Johnny Brenda’s
Merriam Theater
Lights of Liberty
Delaware Canal State Park
Feria del Barrio
Philadelphia Phillies