On Saturday February 1st, the Civil War Round Table of Eastern PA was privileged to tour the UnionLeague Building on Broad St in Philadelphia.
The Union League of Philadelphia is a shining jewel of history in a city defined by such treasure. Founded in 1862 as a patriotic society to support the Union and the policies of President Abraham Lincoln, The Union League of Philadelphia laid the philosophical foundation of other Union Leagues across a nation torn by Civil War. The League has hosted US Presidents, heads of state, industrialists, entertainers and dignitaries from around the globe and has proudly supported the American military in each conflict since the Civil War. The Union League continues to be driven by its motto, “Amor Patriae Ducit” or Love of Country Leads.
The League House is representative of the classic French Renaissance style, with a brick and brownstone façade and dramatic twin circular staircases that lead to the main entrance on Broad Street. Built in 1865, the building was added to the National Historic Register in 1979. Inside the traditional décor is accented in rich leather, patinated wood and polished marble. The League’s distinguished collection of art and artifacts adorns the walls and hallways. The collection I s rich chronicle of Philadelphia’s unique imprint upon the American landscape from the 19th century to today and is recognized by historians and art experts as a valuable component of American history.
Thanks to Kay Bagenstose and Jim Duffy for the pictures.
Some notes about a few of the photos are as follows (not necessarily in order):
The American flag with incorrect number of stars was made by a Philadelphia woman to fly at her home for the passing of Lincoln’s body. She did not have enough white material for it and so had to cut her petticoat to finish it and hence the odd white in the strips.
The large painting is a compilation of all the wars fought, with the League on the right and Little Round Top in the background.
The framed flag of the “clover” is the one that Webb carried at Little Round Top
A picture is one of the armed forces stained glass windows… this one the Marine Corps
Painting with light above it, is of Henry Clay pointing to the western hemisphere, where the United States has a large footprint, thus the American flag covering the rest of the globe. At his feet are objects showing the industrial and agricultural might of the USA. But there is a shadow of black over his head that signifies slavery.
Photos from the Hall of Presidents are included.
