Philly Tales Blog

I woke up early this morning thinking about Jerry Blavat. May he rest in peace. Somehow, I don’t think he is resting but rather hosting rock and ro...

When you see a flying roach, what do you do? If you grew up in rural America, you’re used to seeing and interacting with a great number of God’s ...

A while ago, I bought an illustrated map of Kensington created by Jessie Husband. It’s a beautiful visual depiction of the area where I grew up...

It was a fantastic day. Puffy white clouds slowly drifted across the bright blue skies, and it was warm, but the breeze was cool. It was the kind...

Note: I chose some images that relate to this article. You can see the other 35 images, plus over 1200 other images of historic Philadelphia, at h...

By Harry HallmanAfter 78 years, you have a mixed bag of memories, and I try to draw on the one from my happy years of growing up in Philly. The oth...

It‘s hot, almost oppressively hot, in the crowded schoolroom. You wipe the sweat from your forehead as the teacher gives final information about ho...

Over the years, I have often written articles about memorial day. I believe it’s important to honor those who have sacrificed for America’s freedom...

Mommy, Maman, Mami, Anychi, Mamo, Mamai, Mammina, Me Oi, Mare, Mamman, Mamusia, Mamica. Whatever language you use, the word mommy can put a smile ...

Do you remember when gas stations only sold gas, oil, and auto repairs? The service person would pump your gas, and check your oil and tire pressur...

Easter is almost here (April 17, 2022,) and you are no doubt being tempted to buy jellybeans, chocolate bunnies, and coconut cream eggs early so yo...

When I grew up in Philly during the 1940s and 1950s, my family was not particularly religious. My dad was a nonpracticing Catholic, and my mom was ...