Yes, people in Philadelphia did used to meet at iconic landmarks like the eagle statue in the Wanamaker Building or the boot of the William Penn statue on top of City Hall. Both locations were well-known meeting points and part of the city’s rich history.
Meeting at the Boot of William Penn
Visitors could go to the top of City Hall and even step into the base of the William Penn statue, where his boot was located. The observation deck beneath the statue offered panoramic views of Philadelphia, making it a popular destination. The idea of meeting “at the boot†became a playful shorthand for a rendezvous at the top of the city.
However, this practice ended due to safety and maintenance concerns, as well as the logistics of managing public access. While the observation deck is still accessible today, people are no longer allowed to climb into the statue itself.
Meeting at the Eagle in the Wanamaker Building
The eagle statue in the Grand Court of the Wanamaker Building (now Macy’s) was another famous meeting spot. The large bronze eagle, originally part of the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904, became a beloved landmark for Philadelphians. People would often arrange to meet “under the eagle,†as it was centrally located and easy to recognize. This tradition continues even today for some.
Why Access to the Boot Stopped
Public access to the William Penn statue’s boot ended largely due to modernization and liability concerns. City Hall itself underwent significant renovations over the years, and ensuring safe public access to the statue’s interior became impractical. Today, the observation deck remains a popular spot, but stepping into the statue itself is a relic of the past.
These landmarks, especially the eagle, remain iconic symbols of Philadelphia’s history and culture, even as traditions around them have evolved.