ABOUT WHITMAN

Whitman, named because of its close proximity to the Walt Whitman Bridge, is neighborhood in South Philadelphia. It extends from Bigler Street to Snyder Avenue and from 6th Street to Front Street. The neighborhood itself is easily lost within its adjacent neighborhoods, often being regarded as a part of Pennsport. While the area’s history is brief, it is full of controversy and struggle. Whitman Park, the proposed 1950’s low-income housing development, was at the center of the neighborhood's protest. Residents recall people lying in front of bulldozers to prevent the destruction of their neighborhood. In fact, the Whitman Council was established for the soul purpose of fighting off large-scale development. This area has seen minor developments since the Whitman Park “fiasco,” but for the most part has remained the same as it has always been. The area is also remembered for its resident, Joey Coyle, who stole 1.2 million dollars when it fell out of an armored truck. The story was later turned into the movie Money for Nothing.

RESOURCES

South Philly Review on Whitman

UPCOMING EVENTS IN WHITMAN

There are no upcoming events in this neighborhood. Feel free to contact us with your contributions.