The Grand Old '61 Grays: A Philly Bronze Buddy from the Civil War Era

The 1st Regiment Infantry National Guard of Philadelphia, aka the Spirit of '61, isn't just a heart-eyed emoji for art lovers. Placed on Broad Street, Center City, Philadelphia, this life-sized, life-like bronze gentleman in his Civil War-era soldier uniform, stands tall with history under his belt. Who's this dude, you might ask? Erected in 1911 by the First Regiment, Infantry of the National Guard of Pennsylvania, this bronze beauty honors their 50-year milestone.

And he's not just a pretty face! He represents an actual soldier from the First Regiment, Infantry of the National Guard of Pennsylvania and, following the Fall of Fort Sumter in mid-April 1861, they were called to action. You can learn this little tidbit from his official plaque which reads: 'First Regiment Infantry/National Guard of Pennsylvania/Grays Reserves/1861 April–1911. And in 1962, the Union League of Philadelphia took over his care, in celebration of their Centennial. So, whenever you're strolling around Broad Street, Philly, make sure to give this bronze buddy a friendly nod!

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons