What defines a Philadelphian? (Franklin, Liberty: house, neighborhoods, living in)

[Pine to Vine]

Since moving here from out of state a few short months ago, my general impression has been “What's not to like?” Not only the amenities and infrastructure, but I’ve really enjoyed the people I've been meeting. So far, I’ve confined myself mostly to Center City. This got me to wondering if there are traits I might find somewhat common among all Philadelphians, be they from Old City, Germantown, Fairmont, NE, Rittenhouse, South Philly or Poweltown? I’m not trying to stereotype; just wondering how folks who know the city well might describe a “Philadelphian.”

On first impressions, this is how I would describe Philadelphians:
• Pride in the city that doesn't cross over to arrogance
• Pride in individual neighborhoods
• Personally unpretentious
• Busy without being harried or stressed
• Courteous
• Fanatic about their sports teams (gosh, there are even some who are starting to believe in the 76ers!)
• Welcoming to outsiders

Time will tell how my impressions evolve. I also note the list is pretty positive (honeymoon period, ya know). While none of these individual traits are unique to Philadelphia, I believe the combination is.

If this thread has been exhausted already, please point me to the link(s) and I'll read away. If not, I’d be interested in your views.

[kidphilly]

Well I think you may still be a bit euphoric and enjoying the restaurants, give it some time...


I will say it is my home and I personally love it, warts and all

After living in DC, NYC, and SF I was happy to come home

[john_starks]

although its not my home. the only other city i spent a lot of time in was nyc.

and talk about a smooth transition when i moved here 6 yrs ago. that's why it reminds me of a borough
its got tons of hidden gems but you have to find them.

[Marius Pontmercy]

It's the City of Brotherly Love man. It means we look out for each other like family. Do you like everyone in your family? Hell no, but it doesn't mean you don't hold the door for them.

[alphamale]

Wiz wit, or wiz widout.

Yo, get me some wooder.

When you get out from under the fire plug, you need a tail.

Hey, jeet? No, jew?

Yo, ja see dat guy fall out dat winda?

It's a hoagie....not a sub....not a hero.

You've only seen the Liberty Bell once, on a 3rd grade class trip. Same with Independence Hall, Valley Forge, Betsy Ross's home and Ben Franklin's grave.

Once you understand and begin speaking like this, you're a Philadelphian.

[brthal]

Originally Posted by alphamale

Wiz wit, or wiz widout.

Yo, get me some wooder.

When you get out from under the fire plug, you need a tail.

Hey, jeet? No, jew?

Yo, ja see dat guy fall out dat winda?

It's a hoagie....not a sub....not a hero.

You've only seen the Liberty Bell once, on a 3rd grade class trip. Same with Independence Hall, Valley Forge, Betsy Ross's home and Ben Franklin's grave.

Once you understand and begin speaking like this, you're a Philadelphian.

This x100000. You nailed it on the head my friend (especially the last one).

[Marius Pontmercy]

Best friend last year used to live down on Tent n Taska.

[alphamale]

Wanna win some money?

Go into a bar in kensington and bet someone that there is no "F" 'n Allegheny.

[Clark Park]

If Philadelphia was a person he (Philly) would be a blue collar working class kinda guy. He would be a devoted sports fan who sometimes wears Eagles ("Birds") or Phillies ("Phils") or or Flyers ("Broad Street Bullies") jerseys and knows the Eagles Fight Song by heart. He's a guy who lives in a row house or a "Twin" at best but a good family man. He is not one dimensional, and actually has been to the Art Museum a couple of times. Philly knows that that real sandwich of The City Of Brotherly Love is not the cheesesteak but a pulled pork sandwich on a Sarcone's roll with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe. Philly is familiar not only with Chinese food but Thai, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese as well. He is a registered Democrat but once in a great while votes for Republicans. One of Philly's buddies is gay and that doesn't bother him. He likes to party in Atlantic City.

Philly likes to brag about his home and his family. But deep down inside he is insecure. The truth is, he suffers from low self esteem; sometimes in his heart he thinks he's a worthless piece of sh-t.

[Marius Pontmercy]

Philadelphia needs to be more optimistic.