WPA Structures in the Wissahickon with Debra Brackett and Pat Jacona, Part 2

Photo courtesy of the Free Library of Philadelphia
Meeting at Blue Bell Field Parking Lot
This hike is the second of a two-part series covering the WPA additions at the southern end of the park. Ever walk past a structure in the Wissahickon and observe a cornerstone with the initials WPA and a date? WPA is short for the Works Progress Administration, a federal New Deal program during the Great Depression that helped provide jobs for unemployed workers. Fairmount Park and the Wissahickon Valley were sites for multiple WPA projects and some controversy. Join us for a loop walk that includes stops at several structures built by WPA workers. We’ll share highlights, some history about the buildings, and the controversy about the scope of work in the Wissahickon.
The route includes some steep and rocky ascents and descents and is about 5 miles long. Children 12 years of age and older are welcome when accompanied by an adult; no dogs except for service animals, please.
Distance: 5 miles
Level: Difficult (many inclines and declines, uneven surfaces)
Registration is required for all hikes so that participants can be informed of weather or other emergency cancellations.
Unless otherwise specified, Trail Ambassador Walks may be on rocky, rugged trails that may be wet and slippery. Wear sturdy shoes or boots with socks. Walks are cancelled in heavy rain or icy conditions. Service animals are always welcome. For more information contact Marisa Miller at miller@fow.org. Visit www.fow.org for updates.
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