52 Weeks of Firsts In Philly

This summer, Philadelphia has been the epicenter of celebration throughout the country. Tourists have flocked to the city to celebrate the FIFA World Cup, the MLB All Star Game, and 250 years of America. As these celebrations overlap with the birthplace of the country, Philadelphia’s contribution to history does not stop at the birthplace of the country. 

52 Weeks of Firsts in Philadelphia has been celebrating the “first-ivals” of things, events, and people all who originated in the city of Philadelphia. Mural Arts in collaboration with 52 Weeks of Firsts and Once Upon a Nation’s performance players helped commemorate the history of Baseball in Philadelphia. 

David McShane is the artist who showcased baseball’s first organized Olympic team here in Philadelphia. McShane’s #1 sculpture that was exhibited outside of Citizens Bank Park a week before All Star Week came into Philadelphia.

The sculpture represents the foundations of Baseball. “Town Ball” became popular in Philadelphia as well as other locations in the tri-state area. While neighboring states like New York had baseball, it was in 1830 the first Olympic team formed in Philadelphia.  This team created a baseline of rules and expectations for play and has since evolved. McShane feels especially passionate about sculpting for baseball in particular. “I love the figure in motion and the poetry of athletics.” McShane said. 

On the statue, McShane wanted to make sure he highlighted three main components that make baseball unique: A batter, a pitcher, and a fielder. McShane wanted to emulate the spirit of the game with his sculpture. 

Once Upon a Nation and Phillies representatives helped celebrate the unveiling of this statue on July 11th with 52 weeks of Firsts. Ana Feliciano, from Brown Mills New Jersey has been following the 52 firsts closely since the beginning of programming in January. Feliciano and her mother are on week 28 of attending events held by 52 weeks of Firsts. 

“We’ve listened to the stories and seen the gorgeous sculptures from local artists. It’s been such a treat to learn so much about the city.” Feliciano said 

The goal of 52 weeks of Firsts is to tell stories creatively and highlight each of the pieces of history that have made Philadelphia the city we know it as today. 

Winnie Warfield, event producer of 52 Weeks of First said, “I think being from here and living here you forget things that everybody else takes advantage of.” Warfield continued, “I think 250 has really become an opportunity to be proud of this city.” 

52 Weeks of Firsts Continues in Philadelphia until the end of the year. Some of the firsts that have been showcased so far are the first balloon flight, the first volunteer fire company, and the first public girl scout cookie sale.