WEST CHESTER — Friends of Marshall Square Park (FMSP), a West Chester community group, will rededicate the park’s historic fountain at 4PM Saturday, September 24. Removed in the early 1950s, the fountain is restored to working order and stands once again at the corner of East Marshall and North Franklin Streets. The fountain’s waters will rise high and be lighted in the evening.
The fountain will be named the “Jack R. Loew Memorial Fountain” in honor of the well-known West Chester developer. His widow, Patricia Burton Loew, principle benefactor for the restoration of the fountain, will be present for the ceremony.
The dedication ceremony includes an introduction by FMSP President Jeff Beitel, a history of the fountain by FMSP Vice President Jim Salvas, and the story of the recovery and restoration process by Fountain Committee Chair Anne Walters. West Chester Mayor Carolyn Comitta will accept the restored fountain for the Borough and its citizens.
Installed in 1889 at the opposite corner to the Civil War monument, the five-tiered fountain quickly became a hub of community activity. By the 1950s, the removal of most of this great fountain left behind only its basin and lowest tier. The upper portions were later found and saved from destruction by private owners who installed them at an East Bradford farm. Friends of Marshall Square Park recovered these sections in 2012, drew up plans for full restoration, and set about raising the needed funds.
According to FMSP President Jeff Beitel, “Our goal has been to create a welcoming space and gateway for our town.”
Anne Walters, Chair of the Fountain Committee, acknowledged that the fountain is restored, installed, and in full working order; but more money is needed to complete the fountain’s surroundings.
At a nearby private residence, a members-only fundraising party follows the dedication ceremony. Details about becoming a member, about the fundraising party, and other donor opportunities are available at marshallsquarepark.org.
