Because of a tight schedule for my 2018 College Football Pilgrimage, the Story of Franklin Field is being written from the Dream Home in Henderson, NV some TIME after my feet rested in the ‘Oldest College Football Stadium’ in the USA. Normally, the first two legs of the CFP are written on the road for freshness remains in the memory process. For the Yale Bowl Story and Harvard Stadium Story, check the Pilgrimage Section or College Sports/Football Section on the Homepage. Since an extra 8 days were added to visit with family and friends in Aliquippa, PA, writing was not on the agenda for that section of the CFP. TIME & Forces have now permitted, after a few days of resettling in, to put the Franklin Field Story into words. This is a Short Story format with about 10,600 words. It includes images and videos.
With two-thirds of my 2018 College Football Pilgrimage now in the books, a planned 5 ½-hour drive in the Red Rental Chariot from Framingham, MA to Springfield, PA was next for Franklin Field. After arriving Safely and in Good Health at my new campsite, my thanks were sent to God and My 2 Angels of INSANITY. For those of you unfamiliar with My 2 Angels of INSANITY, a short intro is needed. Angel Compassion has been part of the CFPs since 2014 and Angel Passion Chaffee joined in with the INSANITY in 2016. With 2 Angels of INSANITY, Protection, Guidance, Inspiration and Stimulation has been greatly increased.
Franklin Field is located about 10 miles from my campsite. Because of the CFP schedule, the history of Franklin Field needed to be investigated before Ritual Day. Unlike, the Yale Bowl and Harvard Stadium where much was discovered before Ritual Day, the history of Franklin Field was only skimmed for the highlights. As with the other two stories about the 2018 College Football Pilgrimage, a trip back into TIME will begin the story.
upenn.edu writes
Context: Early Football In America
When intercollegiate American football began on November 6, 1869, with a game played by Rutgers and Princeton in New Brunswick, New Jersey, football bore little resemblance to its modern-day descendant. Rules for the contest were adopted from those of the London Football Association, which themselves were similar to soccer — players could neither throw the ball nor run with it, though they could bat it about with open hand or fist. It was not until 1876 that formal rules were codified for football as a distinct sport with its own rules.
Earlier forms of football existed perhaps as early as the 1820’s, though strictly as informal affairs between unorganized participants, played by whatever rules the players that day decided to use. In essence, these were games in which players were divided between two teams with the goal of advancing a ball past the opposing teams. These were the only rules in common with later football antecedents; in some cases, these were the only rules at all. Calling these games ‘rough’ would be an understatement; the preferred adjective at the time was ‘brutal.’ Within the college context, these ball games were usually a rite of passage for newly enrolled freshmen. The teams were the classes, and the ball was only an excuse for a brawl. It was for this reason that, around 1860 or so, ‘football’ as it was then termed was banned outright at a number of colleges
Many students wanted the game brought back, and colleges sought to compromise by reintroducing football in a less violent form: in 1867, Princeton proposed formal rules modified from those of the London Football Association. These rules resulted in a game, which more closely resembled modern soccer than modern football. Over the next two years, these rules came into widespread usage. Although most schools made changes to suit their own needs, by 1869 football teams from different colleges were able to play each other with only small changes needed to bring each school’s rules in line with the others.
Even though we today trace the roots of football to 1869, those witnessing the Princeton-Rutgers game may not have thought they had seen the birth of anything of immediate importance. Princeton’s rules did not become popular right away, with two games played in 1870, none in 1871, and a scarce handful in 1872. Since differences in rules between schools may have still hampered competition, representatives from Yale, Columbia, Princeton, and Rutgers met in October of 1873 to establish a unified set of intercollegiate rules under which any college could play. The colleges decided on twelve rules. Among other things, they required that a round ball be used for all games, that the ball could not be carried or thrown, and that the game should not end until either six goals were scored or until the game was called; that is, that the game had no set length. All in all, the conference settled on a set of rules which resembled soccer, much as Princeton’s 1869 rules had.
Harvard was invited to the conference but did not attend because of a difference of opinion over what form football should take. It had drawn up its own set of rules in 1872, which loosely resembled rugby, with the twist that any player could catch or pick up the ball, but could only run with it if chased by an opponent. No other college adopted the Harvard rules; most favored those of the 1873 conference.
Because it did not agree to the rules adopted by the rules set up by the other colleges in 1873, Harvard was forced to leave the country to compete, engaging in a series of games with McGill college’s rugby team that alternated between being played under Harvard’s rules and the traditional rules of rugby, which Harvard’s players had never tried. Once they did, however, the players decided they preferred traditional rugby to their own rules, and began trying to convince other colleges to try them as well. It was not until 1875 that Harvard succeeded in this, convincing Yale to play a game of rugby, with Princeton students in attendance. The game convinced the other schools of rugby’s superiority, or at least novelty, and by 1876, both Yale and Princeton had abandoned their own rules in favor of modified rugby rules.
On November 23, 1876, Representatives from Harvard, Columbia, Princeton, and Yale, met at Massasoit House in Massachusetts to decide on new universal rules, an event later termed the “Massasoit Convention.” There, they adopted the Rugby Union rules in full, with slightly modified rules for scoring. These rules spread like wildfire among the colleges and athletic clubs of the country — among them, in that same year, the University of Pennsylvania.
Penn began playing intercollegiate football in 1876. Before this, Penn students had played football amongst themselves; but since the sport developed later than cricket, baseball and rowing, it did not have as consistent a campus presence as these other sports. The first football teams on campus were class teams, but these teams developed later than did the teams in cricket, baseball and rowing. The first student publication to mention football at Penn was the 1872 yearbook. The brief description of football contests between Penn classes in the fall of 1871 includes the comment that football had existed at the College before then, but not for a while. The next mention of football, in the 1874 yearbook, describes football contests between classes at the 1873 fall athletic games sponsored by the new University Athletic Association.
Then there is another gap before the inclusion in the 1876 yearbook of the members of the “Foot-ball Twenties” from the classes of 1877 and 1878. Penn’s first University team played Penn’s first intercollegiate game the following season, the fall of 1876. According to the University Magazine, Penn’s first student news publication, the Athletic Association was looking to pick “a twenty” to play a game of football against Columbia. This “twenty” never played Columbia, but did play twice against Princeton. (Pics of 1876 Unavailable)
These early games lasted half-again as long as modern games and were played under rules that emphasized kicking over tackling. Teams had twenty players to a side, nearly twice the modern eleven. No one wore helmets or protective padding, and a player who left the field could not return; consequently, substitutions were rare, and players often ignored injuries so they could remain on the field. This made football in 1876 a rougher, more injury-prone game than football today.
A brief hiatus in competition occurred the following year. Because of scheduling conflicts with Princeton and Columbia and a lack of organization on the part of the team itself, Penn played no games against other colleges. Instead, students played class games only. In 1878, the University of Pennsylvania began playing intercollegiate football on a regular basis. On November 11th of that year, Penn won its first football game against another college, defeating Swarthmore College by a score of nine goals and sixteen touchdowns to zero.
TO UNDERSTAND FULLY THE ROLE OF PENN UNIVERSITY WITH INTERCOLLEGIATE SPORTS, THE STORY CONTINUES BACK IN TIME.
upenn.edu writes
During the last fifteen years of the nineteenth century, first the alumni and then the University administration became more involved in student athletics. Students tried to address issues of organization and financing with the formation of Penn’s student Athletic Association in 1873, just a year after Penn’s move to West Philadelphia opened up new possibilities.
In its first years, the Athletic Association limited its membership to undergraduates and focused on the promotion of track and field. In 1879, however, alumni were also invited to join the membership, thus opening up a new source of financing and organizational leadership. At the same time, the Athletic Association was discussing the possibility of expanding oversight to include baseball, cricket, rowing and other sports. In November of 1882, when the Athletic Association officially reorganized its officers and board of directors, alumni were named to key positions. The involvement of alumni in the restructured Athletic Association soon brought very tangible results.
These alumni, led by John C. Sims, worked with Provost William Pepper and the University trustees to provide the land for an athletic field, the first involvement of the University in student athletics. In May of 1883, the trustees approved the use of the land between 36th and 37th, Pine and Spruce Streets for athletic purposes. The tangible results of the trustees’ commitment came in 1885. First, in January, the Trustees formally instituted a Department of Physical Education, with Professor J. William White, M.D. at its head. Then, on May 11, 1885 came the opening of Penn’s “New” Athletic Grounds, the later site of the Quadrangle dormitories. In December, a gymnasium was opened on the lower floor of College Hall. Within a decade, the “New” Athletic Grounds had become the “Old” Athletic Field; it would disappear completely with the completion of the Quadrangle dormitories on the site.
Intercollegiate athletics and the regulation of student athletes
Intercollegiate athletic events began in the 1860s and 1870s, but did not come to dominate the college sports scene until the late 1880s and early 1890s. Harvard, Princeton and Yale led the way in organizing early intercollegiate sports, but the 1894 completion of Franklin Field, in its first rendition, positioned Penn for a major role in the important intercollegiate athletic world that was emerging. As the 1890s progressed, student publications contained more and more articles about intercollegiate athletic events and organizations. Although the National College Athletic Association was not formed in New York City until 1906, Penn alumni and athletes already attended meetings of the influential intercollegiate Athletic Association in New York City. The Penn Athletic Association was also affiliated with the Pennsylvania Intercollegiate Athletic Association which was already in existence. Many at Penn also wanted to join the athletic association formed by Harvard, Yale and Princeton
These early attempts to standardize intercollegiate athletics were not without conflict, as can be seen in Penn’s actions in the controversy over player eligibility. In 1893, the Pennsylvania Intercollegiate Association passed the Swarthmore amendment which limited intercollegiate athletics to undergraduates only. The University of Pennsylvania, with its many professional schools, was the only institution in the state to object; Penn even withdrew from the state intercollegiate association as a protest to this regulation. As an alternative, Penn advocated following the rules proposed by Harvard. The Harvard proposal limited an individual’s intercollegiate participation to four years for any school, leaving open the participation of students in professional schools as well as those who attended more than one school.
As Franklin Field was being planned and built, the Penn faculty became seriously involved in the regulation of student athletics. In December of 1893 the Faculty conference Committee, led by Simon N. Patten and George Wharton Pepper, issued Rules Affecting Eligibility to Membership on Athletic Teams at the University of Pennsylvania.
These rules barred athletes from Penn varsity teams if they had profited financially from playing baseball. Athletes had to be enrolled full-time at Penn, could not play if they had to repeat an academic year, were required to pass a physical exam, and could not play for more than four years; transfer students could not be varsity athletes during their first year at Penn. No student could play on more than one varsity team in any academic year. The choice of team captains now had to be ratified by both the faculty committee and by the Athletic Association, and lists of team members had to be submitted to the deans of the various schools to ensure that players were on sound academic footing.
By the turn of the century, class teams still enjoyed their rivalries in most sports, but intercollegiate varsity teams had come into their own, with regular schedules of contests between Penn and other colleges. Professional coaches and playing facilities were now available, paid for and administered by the University. Both the University and the Intercollegiate Athletic Association were now setting the rules governing player eligibility and other issues formerly in the hands of the students.
FRANKLIN FIELD
www.archives.upenn.edu , Wikipedia, www.theclio.com, & classicizingphiladelphia.org contribute:
To understand the architecture of Franklin Field, it is necessary to understand its history. Franklin Field lies in Philadelphia at the eastern edge of the University of Pennsylvania’s campus, across the Schuylkill River from Center City. The stadium may not stand out right away compared to Philadelphia’s modern skyline, but its place in history makes up for its size. Franklin Field is located on South 33rd and Spruce Streets, Philadelphia PA, 19104. Quoted from the University’s website, “The U-shaped stadium is one of the University of Pennsylvania’s landmarks, occupying the entire block on which it sits, facing the main part of campus, on the banks of the Schuylkill River from center city.” It may not be as popular as other historical landmarks in the city of Philadelphia, but Franklin Field has a rich sports history that only adds to a historic city.
There is a rich history of teams that played at Franklin Field. The University of Pennsylvania Quakers are one of the original teams to introduce collegiate football. Penn football played on Franklin Field for the first time in 1895. The NCAA considers the Quakers one of the most historic programs and their home field is the oldest in the United States. To date, over 1,360 football games have been played on Franklin Field. Though ‘Famous’ for hosting various collegiate and professional sports, plus other events including concerts, the emphasis of this story will remain on Penn Football.
Franklin Field, in its first rendition, was built for use during the 1894-1895 sports season and was built for US$100,000 (equivalent to $2,941,600 in 2017). The first edition, with a field, track, and wooden stands, was completed for the first running of the Penn Relay Carnival and dedicated on April 20, 1895. Its playing field and wooden bleachers were surrounded by a plain wood fence. For $100,000, Penn had the most complete athletic field in the country at that time.
The Athletic Association balance sheet which survived from the year ending June 30th, 1896, provides insight into the financing of Penn varsity athletics at the end of the nineteenth century. Football receipts was the biggest source of income, supporting over half the cost for the entire varsity sports program. The combined receipts for all other sports contributed not even a third of what football brought in. The stadium was not a large financial burden to the people living in Philadelphia, as the University of Pennsylvania’s Athletic Association provided the understanding on how the financing for Franklin Field took place. Association Dues, contributions and building donations from wealthy alumni bridged the gap and lessened the overall cost. Permanent Franklin Field construction did not begin until after the turn of the century.
It took the University until 1904 to collect the roughly $500,000 needed to build the permanent grandstands to replace the wooden ones, and build both the training houses and Weightman Hall, the adjacent gymnasium. Weightman Hall and permanent grand stands were erected between 1903 thru 1905. Architect Frank Miles Day & Brother were chosen for the project. The field was 714 feet long and 443 feet wide. The site featured a ¼-mile track, a football field, and a baseball diamond. Beneath the stands were indoor tracks and indoor training facilities. With these improvements, roughly 20,000 spectators could be accommodated. Two years later the J. William White Training House was added alongside the north wing of Weightman Hall.
In 1916, the University of Pennsylvania chose to renovate Franklin Field with Frank Miles Day’s design. However, the renovations did not take place until the 1920’s for this brick horseshoe structure did not meet the demand from fans. The old wood stands were razed immediately following the Penn Relays in 1922 and the newly designed stadium by Day & Klauder at a cost of $725,000 began to take shape.
The foundations for a potential second tier was included. In 1922, Franklin Field was refurbished as a more permanent structure for the university and the new concrete lower tier seating for 50,000 was erected in 1922.
The popularity of college football along with the success of the Penn Football program called for a second tier to be built in 1925 at an additional cost of $500,000. Again, Day & Klauder were responsible for the design. The redesign included more of an ornamental exterior, consisting of high open arches and Italian style brick and mortar work. Internally, a two-tier seating arrangement was introduced, making it the first stadium with an upper deck of seats and the largest two-tiered stadium in the United States with a seating capacity of 78,000. This was all made possible by the exterior brick arches as it stands today.
The University needed to arcade the sidewalk on several sides to support the second tier. The architects needed to fit 78,000 seats in a small space, so they stretched over the sidewalk. The arcade of the second tier over the first is where the arches were built. In 1970, The Sunday Bulletin claimed that the arches in the arcade were intended to mimic Roman aqueducts, while George Thomas and David Brownlee say in their book on Penn’s history that the arches resemble the Colosseum. Both claims are valid insofar as they show that one ancient model or another came to mind when people looked at Franklin Field. If we continue to look at aspects of Franklin Field, more roads will lead to Rome.
This style connects Franklin Field to other buildings on Penn’s campus, such as the Archaeological Museum. The fact that these two buildings are similar is no surprise, since simplified classicism flourished as an architectural style in the 1920s. Weightman Hall was built in 1904, while the current structure of Franklin field was finished in 1925, so that explains the disparity. This design sub-plot which connected the east end of the campus involved broad mortar joints and paired bricks. These paired bricks were intended to imitate the characteristic long, thin bricks of Roman architecture. So-called “Roman” bricks were popularized by the classicizing New York architectural firm of McKim, Mead, and White in the early 20th century, just as Franklin Field was being designed. Some north Italian influence can also be noted on the Franklin field cornice. Apart from the architectural influence, the priorities of the people who designed the Colosseum aligned with those of the architects who designed Franklin Field in many ways.
First, the visibility from all seats was a top priority. The cantilever construction of Franklin Field, along with intelligently placed support posts, were the result of intentional decisions made by the architects in order not to block the view of any spectator. The Colosseum was similarly designed to allow for a good view, regardless of where the spectator sat. Another key was to be able to empty out the stands quickly. Franklin Field’s upper deck can supposedly be comfortably emptied in under ten minutes. Exit from the Colosseum was equally expedient, as the eighty exits allowed for the crowd of up to 80,000 (similar to the maximum capacity of Franklin Field) to be emptied in a few minutes.
GLADIATORIAL COMBAT AND COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Gladiatorial combat in Rome has much more in common with college football than first meets the eye. The first recorded gladiatorial combat in Rome took place at funeral games in 264 B.C.E. These games had modest beginnings as well and took place in the forum. The accommodations for spectators were temporary wooden bleachers. By 80 A.D., the Colosseum was built. Competitions which demanded that athletes put their lives on the line were clearly as popular in the ancient world as they were in the early 20th century. In the book Gladiators and Caesars, Eckhart Köhne, Cornelia Ewigleben and Ralph Jackson argue that while Formula 1 drivers are the modern equivalent of chariot racers, there is no modern athlete who can be compared to a gladiator. They must not have been familiar with early college football.
In Rome, gladiators served a similar purpose. Gladiatorial combat was not senseless slaughter. Two skilled fighters, either slaves or criminals, would compete in a show of skill and endurance and represented their masters and fans. Not only was this a way to provide entertainment while disposing of the socially unacceptable, this sort of combat modeled discipline and desire and showed the Romans how to face pain and death. As Cicero said, “when guilty men are compelled to fight, no better discipline against suffering and death can be represented to the eye.” The successful gladiators became celebrities, but these duels were not conducted for the benefit of the slaves and criminals. Gladiatorial combat was intended to harden the citizens for war. Just as football players represented the masculine ideal, gladiators exemplified a crucial Roman value: bravery in the face of death.
The gladiators who exhibited bravery and skill were spared after a defeat, while the ones who did not perform well were killed. The gladiatorial games in the Colosseum also served as a safety valve against social unrest. Under Augustus, there had been 150,000 idlers in Rome, and another 150,000 who finished work at noon. The emperors realized that bored people are likely to revolt, so they kept the people entertained. The emperors used the gladiators to disempower the people and lure them away from political engagement. As Juvenal famously said, “there was a time when the people bestowed every honor – the governance of provinces, civic leadership, military command – but now they hold themselves back, now two things only do they ardently desire: bread and games.”
The idea of using sports to draw out masculinity was by no means original. Back in the Renaissance, many intellectuals examined the value of aristocratic sports during the adoption of Greek ideas about athletics. What they discovered was that the most gentlemanly sports involved mimic combat. College football did not only mimic combat, it was combat. Since football was such a gentlemanly sport, it was used as an example of American values apart from masculinity as well. Frederick Winslow Taylor, the creator of the principles of scientific management, used football to model the training and teamwork necessary for a modern business to succeed.
Early college football at Penn was simply brutal. Diane Roberts characterizes college football as “savagery sanctioned by the very institutions of higher learning founded to civilize us.” Some formations allowed for several offensive linemen to launch attacks on defenders, and new rules had to be put in place starting in the 1903-1904 season to limit the number of lineman allowed. Penn, Harvard, Princeton, and Yale met to discuss taking these mass plays out of the game to minimize the barbarity. Penn and Harvard chose to adopt their own set of rules so that they could keep these plays, which were the reason for the success of their programs. In 1905 there were eighteen deaths from intercollegiate sports. A New York Times editorial on the brutality of these Penn, Princeton, Harvard, and Yale games said that “the record of French duels for the last dozen years fails to show such a list of casualties as this one game of football has produced.”
This game played by young men was raised to the level of an ultimate battle for dominance. With their massed formations, charges, and retreats, football games seemed to recreate the features of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century battle. After a West Point cadet was killed in a football match in 1909, military men debated the comparison. In The Independent for 1909, William Everett Hicks concluded that football had no value as military training. Others begged to differ, including Col. James Parker, who advised his Eleventh Cavalry Regiment that “football is calculated to bring out and develop the most valuable soldierly qualities—courage, ready obedience, and unflinching fortitude under pain and stress.”
Even the bands at football games mimicked their military counterparts in dress and purpose. It is ironic that a critic of football in 1905 invoked the same quotation from Horace, Odes 3.2, that Wilfred Owen would use for a grimmer combat in 1917: “Is not the atmosphere of Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori a little too intense on the modern football field?” (Paul van Dyke, “Athletics and Education,” Outlook 79 (1905) 392.)
A more potent and enduring comparison, though, has been with gladiatorial combat. A Google search for “football” and “gladiators” will turn up dozens of hits. One veteran NFL player, Takeo Spikes, made the comparison explicit in 2012: “We are so prideful in the way people view us as modern-day gladiators, how tough we are, how we can fight through anything and keep it all inside.” The mindset of college football players in the game’s early stages was similar to that of Roman gladiators. On October 30, 1897, the Red and Black newspaper said that the athletes competing in the game between the University of Georgia and the University of Virginia later that day realized “the fact that there [was] much at stake, and each one [entered] the game with a determination to win or die.”
The savagery of gladiatorial combat needs no explanation. If two skilled criminals or slaves had been forced to fight to the death for the entertainment of large crowds in the early 20th century, there would have been public outrage. However, when large groups of college students risked their lives to play a game, it was used as the example of good teamwork, dedicated training, and masculinity. Gladiatorial games were held for both entertainment and to get rid of the unwanted criminals and slaves and appealed to the Roman masses. However, these games did not go unopposed. Many ancient Roman intellectuals opposed this barbaric form of entertainment. Pliny the Younger called gladiatorial combat “so silly, so low, so uninteresting, so common an entertainment.” Apart from the sheer brutality, another similarity to college football is the music. In the Colosseum, music played during the interludes for lighter entertainment, and trumpets and the hydraulis or water organ punctuated the combats.
However, the one key difference is that while the gladiators were forced to fight, college football players chose to compete. The gladiators fought for the ultimate reward, the ability to live another day, while football players were not even paid.
BEFORE LEAVING FRANKLIN FIELD, A FEW REMAINING TIDBITS
It was the first stadium in the United States to have a functioning scoreboard. The first football radio broadcast originated from Franklin Field in 1922. It was carried by Philadelphia station WIP. This claim is pre-empted by an earlier live radio broadcast emanating from Forbes Field in Pittsburgh, on October 8, 1921, a full year before Franklin Field’s claim to fame. Harold W. Arlin announced the live broadcast of the Pitt-West Virginia football game on October 8, 1921, on radio station KDKA. The first commercial football television broadcast in 1939 also came from Franklin Field.
Franklin Field maintained a grass field until 1969, when it switched over to AstroTurf. It was the first National Football League stadium to use artificial turf. The stadium’s fifth AstroTurf surface was installed in 1993. The current Sprinturf field replaced the AstroTurf in 2004. Besides the minor changes to the surface of the quarter track, the layout has been the same around the grass field its whole existence. Today, Franklin Field named after Penn’s founder, Benjamin Franklin seats 52,958.
SHORT AERIAL VIDEO OF FRANKLIN FIELD
RITUAL DAY-THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2018
Unlike my Ritual Days to the Yale Bowl, and Harvard Stadium, the drive will have no freeways. My campsite is about 10 miles from Franklin Field. The most direct route has been chosen. It was not until the City of Philadelphia was in sight that Excitement awoke from the back seat in the Red Rental Chariot to join in the rest of the ride. As the view of the city appeared, so did the change in the landscaping and architect. Modern day trolley tracks marked the streets as they probably did at the TIME of the birth of Franklin Field. The ‘Row Houses’ along with small stores were planted many years ago forming a chute for vehicles, buses and trolleys heading to Philadelphia.
After passing the trolley station, the older tall buildings began to blend in with the newer, taller building. The sizes of the buildings prevented Franklin Field from my line of sight. An intersection appeared with Franklin Field on my right. A quick left found a space for the RR Chariot. The parking meters on the campus of Penn University were much kinder than the meters in Cambridge Square. The Cambridge Square meters would only accept an app on the cellphone and no cash. These meters at Penn provided both options. After depositing the cash fare, my Ritual Day began. The 1st Spirit to offer a Greeting was Ben Franklin.
When our conversation was completed, Ben wished my feet ‘Good Health’ & ‘Good Fortune’ during my Pilgrimage at Franklin Field. My feet then followed the trail that led to the next sign.
Without realizing the close proximity to Franklin Field, an opening between two buildings called out for the next pic.
TIME was spent Observing and Analyzing the entrance to Franklin Field. The small gate was unlocked and opened as a sign for an invitation for my feet. Since no warning sign was posted, my feet studied the next sign.
Though Penn University was not my feet’s Alma Mater, they did arrive, standing outside the gates of Franklin Field to pay their Pledge of Loyalty and Devotion to Franklin Field for the 2018 College Football Pilgrimage. While using ESPN, the choice for messaging with the Spirits of Football Past of Franklin Field, my feet accepted their invitation to venture inside and for the next pics.
After enjoying the AWE of Franklin Field for a few moments, the lack of other visitors caught my attention. Franklin Field was vacated, creating a Solemn Silence as a Blessing similar to ancient holy shrines. My feet then spotted others eating a meal at a table beyond the end zone perimeter. Greetings were exchanged along with my tale of the 2018 CFP, which included a plea for a cameraman. My plea was accepted resulting in the next two pics.
With pics now etched in Helen my camera, more talk with my photographer ensued. His name was Matt and a graduate of Penn State University. He was from the Philadelphia area and returned with a degree in Business and Telecommunications. Upon his return, he parlayed his degree with his contacts in the area and became a ‘Free Lancer’ working with and for major sports’ networks in the Philadelphia region. His primary duties involved in setting up the cables and lines for the TV telecast of the events and to provide support during game day. His current gig was with ESPN for the upcoming Battle on Friday night in Franklin Field. Next is a pic of Angel Matt plus the ‘Free Lancers’ in the area.
The Ritual Walk continued as my feet searched for the other great Spirits that roamed Franklin Field. The lack of others at Franklin Field contributed to the ‘Silence’. Outside vehicle traffic occasionally filtered in, but it did not affect the peaceful surroundings within Franklin Field. Next are pics of Spirits Past that roamed Franklin Field.
The playing surface and track was vacant as the Ritual Walk continued. My feet gingerly walked to the Battle Field to take a few pics to replicate the Pilgrimage at the Yale Bowl and Harvard Stadium.
Slight foot traffic started to pick-up as the Ritual Walk continued inside Franklin Field. One trafficker crossing the Battle Field was flagged down to assist with pics at the 50-yard line. Though he was on his way to practice, this Modern-Day Gladiator accepted my request for a few pics at mid-field.
My thanks were then given to this Gladiator along with another request for his pic so it could be included in the story. His name was Gladiator Justin and he was originally from Cleveland, Ohio. As a member of the St. Ignatius High School Gladiator Team, Gladiator Justin combined his Combat skills as a safety along with his ACT scores and joined to be a member of the Penn Gladiator Team. His status as a freshman included being tutored in the ‘Art of Combat’ to prepare him for future Battles. When asked of his ACT scores, Gladiator Justin replied 32 out of 36. Next is a pic Gladiator Justin.
Before parting ways, my thanks were extended to Gladiator Justin for his TIME and for permitting my feet to share his. With his Highly Intellectual Energy stored in my feet, the Ritual Walk continued around the Battle Field for more pics of Solitude.
Ben Franklin then invited my feet to experience the Solitude as a fan. The following pics of Solitude were snapped from Row 25 throughout different sections of Franklin Field.
Next is a pic of a supporting beam for the 2nd tier. The 2nd tier provided shelter for rows 12 to about rows 30 on the first level. Though the support beams were advertised to not to be an obstruction for the fans, my feet begged to differ.
With very little foot traffic to engage with, my Journey of Solitude continued though the concourse of Franklin Field that were documented with the next pics.
My feet wanted to plan out the menu for the Celebration of Pigskin. Signs pointed to the direction of items on the menu.
Underneath the structure of Franklin Field along the concourse are other rooms and facilities.
Menus were located
For the most part, my Ritual Walk was conducted in Solitude. There were sporadic cases of individuals playing on the field or a few ‘Free Lancers’ setting up their equipment. As my feet were leaving the interior of Franklin Field, more Gladiators began to arrive to prep for Friday’s Celebration of Pigskin. The Ritual Walk then moved to the exterior of Franklin Field. The noise of the traffic and other sounds turned off the Solitude. Next are pics of the Roman Arches.
Eventually, my feet discovered a Plaque honoring Henry Laussat Geyelin.
While walking the path around Franklin Field the skyline of Philadelphia came into view.
A map showed the overlay of Penn Park
Backside Roman Arches
My feet eventually made it back to where they started near the ticket office. Penn advertises that all of their seats are general admission for Franklin Field and the Celebration of Pigskin. The sales staff for Penn was very friendly and helpful, answering numerous questions, and for listening to my tales of the 2018 CFP. The ticket was for any seat in Franklin Field that did not have a cushion attached. The price was on par with the Yale Bowl, and Harvard Stadium. For all 3 Shrines, the grand total for all 3 Celebrations of Pigskin was less than $60. The tailgating sites were explained along with parking for the Celebration of Pigskin. After exchanging thanks, my feet exited back to RR Chariot.
After completing the Ritual Walk around the exterior of Franklin Field, one last pic was spotted. ENIAC and its creators J. Presper Eckert and John W. Mauchly were tossed a few thanks for making possible, this story on my website.
The proximity of the Penn bookstore provided the opportunity to gather a few mementos, souvenirs and Tokens for My 2 Angels of INSANITY, Angel Compassion and Angel Passion Chaffee. One final stop was made before boarding the RR Chariot for the return trip back to my campsite. My Gratitude was extended to Benjamin Franklin for his warm, Colonial Style, hospitality that were extended to my feet during Ritual Day. The Solitude was added as a dessert.
FRANKLIN FIELD-CELEBRATION OF PIGSKIN-FRIDAY OCTOBER 19, 2018
Plans were made to arrive at Franklin Field about three hours before the start of the Combat Battle. Ritual Day drive to Franklin Field took about 30 minutes for about 10 miles earlier in the day. Kick-off was scheduled around 7:10 pm. Since the departure would be later in the day, an hour was allocated for the drive. One of the KNOWINGS discovered during the 2018 CFP is that my CRCR Coffee, plus my bladder, and nervous Energy creates the signs that relief is calling. Most driving activities are programmed to meet the needs for relief. The slow drive to Franklin Field at near the 5-mile mark turned into a crawl. Around the one-hour mark and after sitting in the RR Chariot, relief started to send minor signals.
When relief is acknowledge, relief has a way of gaining more attention. The pressure began to build around the 1:10 mark and an executive decision had to be made concerning relief. The extremely heavy traffic crawled to a snail’s pace and Franklin Field could not be seen. My feet had two choices at the 1:15 mark; they could sit in a puddle as relief made a wet statement. Or, a bottle could be used to capture relief. Never in my IMAGINATION, has this scenario ever played out. The RR Chariot was positioned in the center lane pinned in by other Chariots of various sizes. The traffic inched along then it would stop for various lengths of TIME. Compounding the logjam were the additional pedestrians.
Since sitting in a puddle was not an option, locating a bottle was. Relief had 2 choices; a 32 oz. size bottle or a 16 oz. water bottle. The best choice would be the larger bottle for its wider opening. The best choice is not always the best choice, especially when the bottles are in the foam cooler at the back of the RR Chariot. Each TIME the traffic stopped, my feet would start to climb over the seat to the cooler only to have the traffic move ahead. This stopping and going finally created a sense of urgency for relief. Around the 1:20 mark, the nearby water bottle was grabbed and emptied out the window. With one hand one the wheel, the other hand slide down my garments. The crowd was no longer a factor, for if it was relief they had come to see, relief it would be. Partial relief was created and the area remained dry. Franklin Field was appearing on the right. Not only is Franklin Field the Oldest College Football Stadium in the USA, it is the 1st Stadium in the USA to entertain my feet with relief.
The RR Chariot crossed over the bridge as instructed by the Penn Ticket Staff. Down below to the left, campsites could be seen. While crossing over the bridge, what could not be seen was the road that led down to the campsites. There were plenty of choices to choose from; however, finding a campsite for the RR Chariot was now a priority for relief was not complete and was signaling again.
It is in these TIMES, and when in need, calls are sent to God and My 2 Angels of Insanity. The area of Franklin Field remained nearby and after making a u-shaped turn to the left, a small campsite appeared on the right. After a few maneuvers, the campsite was secured and relief followed while standing outside the passenger side. With relief now secured in the bottle, the sounds of rushing water could be heard from a street sewer across the road. Relief joined the rushing water and my bladder was ready for the first pics from the campsite.
Since the schedule was altered due to the unforeseen traffic, only a short TIME was spent at the campsite. Final preparations were made for the Road Not Taken to Franklin Field for the Celebration of Pigskin.
After taking that pic, a once distant figure was now in visible range. If our courses continued on the Road, ships passing in the daylight would be the result. Plans were put into action to flag down this ship and to ask for the most direct route to Franklin Field. A dog was a companion with the ship. As our two ships were in range to communicate, a flare was shot from my two feet. The female ship and her companion shot a flair back, which resulted in a quick stop. SMILES and greetings were exchanged. Words and pointing with the hands and fingers showed the Road Not Taken to Franklin Field. My thanks were tossed to the female ship as my feet led the way.
MORE PICS ON THE ROAD NOT TAKEN TO FRANKLIN FIELD
While crossing the bridge, the campsites could be seen down under across the bridge. A pause was in order to study the landscape in order to find a way down to the campsites. Up ahead on the same street side was a small cove that connected to a building. Since the walk way was heavily congested, this cove could be used to park my feet. After a few moments, a way down to the campsites did not reveal itself. The cove also provided an opportunity for a pic. My feet then began to scan the cove and the shipping lanes for a potential pic shooter. The ships were moving at a rapid pace, so the cove became the target. Ships were entering and leaving the building but at a slower speed. Then my feet spotted the potential pic shooter who was dressed in a uniform and was strapping his own shooter. The Guardian of Ships shot the next pic.
During our brief conversation, much info was shared as ‘olde faithful friends’. Tales of my College Football Pilgrimages were swapped along with a few personal tales from the Guardian of Ships. The Guardian confessed that he was somewhat protective of sharing his thoughts with others. He also said that his LIFE was not much of a story. My feet then begged to differ, for everyone had a Great Story to tell about their LIFE. With TIME playing as a factor, this is what the Guardian of Ships shared. His name was Mike and a life-long resident of Philadelphia. His first guard duty was with the Philadelphia Police Department. After 20 years of service to fulfill his pension requirements, Mike then shifted his valuable experience to the Penn University Police Department.
He then declared with excitement that after playing Guardian of Ships at Penn, in 9 months, he was going to hang up his shooter. When asked of future of plans, he said that his wife and him were going to retire to Florida. The word ‘retire’ in recent TIMES has been declared taboo by certain well-documented ships. Studies have indicated that the repetitive use of the word ‘retire’ sends mixed messages to the brain, as in ‘Let the dirt throwin begin’. It is suggested to use words that sends a message of growth to the brain, for as long as there is Growth, there will be ‘No Dirt Throwin’. Mike laughed when hit by a wave of ‘Growth’. When his laughter ceased, he said that other words would describe his lifestyle in his condominium in Baca Raton, Florida. Mike then revealed the short cut to the campsites beneath the bridge. My thanks were given to the Guardian of Ships and in return, he agreed to the pic.
The short cut was a couple flights of stairs down to the left of the front doors that led to the building. Finally, the campsites came into a clear view.
As usual, the Aliquippa Gear caught the eyes of the campsites as my feet enjoyed the sights, smells and sounds for the Celebration of Pigskin. Though the Ivy League pales in size with other campsites of other conferences, the same Energy, PASSION, COMPASSION, and Relationships are on display. In a short TIME, a volunteered stepped forward for the next two pics.
After explaining my College Football Pilgrimage and for the lack of TIME of not being able to accept the hospitality of the Penn Alumni Ships, my feet started to walk away only to be stopped from a voice by another female ship. My turn pointed into the direction of this ship with cargo. A complete stop occurred with the exchange of SMILES. This female ship brought souvenirs, Tokens, and memories for my CFP at the ‘Oldest College Football Stadium’ in the USA. The name of this ship was Angel Wendy. As a bonus, the Penn Coeds posed for the next pic.
More pics from the Penn Campsites.
The Road Not Taken then led my feet through Penn Park to the backside of Franklin Field. Eventually, the Road connected to the Ritual Walk on the day before. A slight buzz could be sensed as Franklin Field began to entertain for the Celebration of Pigskin. From a distance, a band could be heard. With the same entry gate planned as yesterday, my feet headed into the direction of the Sounds of the Band. The large vacant grass lot from yesterday was now converted into campsites. Vehicles were not permitted, but the area was set up for foot campsites. There was an increased Energy percolating from this campsite. As my feet arrived, the Penn Band concluded their warm-ups and began to disperse. Roman Arches provide the backdrop for the Penn Band.
A DJ then picked up the slack of no tunes and began to fill the air with his sounds. As more ships filled the area, more Waves of Energy were being created. The Penn Cheer Squad began their warm-ups.
After cooling down, some members of the Penn Cheer Squad agreed to the next pic with my feet. Unlike Yale and Harvard, a moment was arranged as a Gift and a Blessing.
Before leaving this large campsite, one final pic was shot. Penn Welcomed Fox Feather to Franklin Field for the Celebration of Pigskin at the ‘Oldest College Football Stadium in the USA’.
A few encounters with other ships occurred on the way to the entry gate to the Stadium. After being vetted by security, my feet were granted entrance into Franklin Field for the Celebration of Pigskin. The Energy inside was much greater than outside. Off to the side, my feet stood to appreciate the AWE of Franklin Field for the Celebration of Pigskin. My IMAGINATION soared back to the mid 1920’s with a Full House. With AWE now etched in my IMAGINATION, my feet moved forward to be greeted by another Souvenir from Franklin Field and the 1st pic.
As day began to turn into night and with the stadium lights now illuminating Franklin Field, my feet enjoyed the spectacle from the end zone area during the Ritual Walk. Helen, my trusted camera is always tested by the stadium lights. Yes, there are better cameras, but Helen has a zoom, a viewfinder for sunny days, shoots video, is very compact and has yet to be used at its full potential. It was decided that another pic shooter was needed to assist in a pic. Eventually, one volunteered for the next pic.
Not only did this Angel volunteer, she did so with a SMILE and exclaimed that ‘I would Love to do it, for this is what I do’. Dialogue was exchanged between this Angel and my feet after completing my request. Her name was Alex. She was very out going and asked if my Pilgrimage included the Palestra, a Holy Shrine of College Basketball. My feet confessed that during College Hoops Seasons, my Passion turns to College Hoops. However, since this was the season for the Celebration of Pigskins, my Passion reflected the season. Angel Alex was a student athlete at Penn. Her duties included the women’s basketball team and a student photographer for the football team. When asked for a picture of her for the story, she responded with a big SMILE, ‘Let’s do one with the both of us’. Not one to turn down an offer by an Angel, my feet found another pic shooter for a pic with a ‘Local Beauty’.
Angel Alex then departed with my thanks and my card. This new pic shooter then asked a few questions about my Aliquippa Gear. He wanted to know if my feet spent TIME in the ticket office yesterday. My feet then relayed the story about the wonderful experience they had yesterday in the ticket office. He said that Jen, one of the staff members, recognized my Aliquippa Gear and it brought a moment of delight to her day. Originally, Jen was from Mt Lebanon, a suburb of Pittsburgh, not far from Aliquippa. According to the new pic shooter, seeing my Quip Gear brought a SMILE to Jen’s face, for it is a rare sighting at Franklin Field. She shared her delight with others including the new pic shooter named Taylor.
Taylor went on to explain that he was the Ticket Sales Manager for Penn University. He too, was a Philadelphia resident with original ties to Temple University. While earning his undergraduate degree in Business and Sports Management, Taylor’s required internships earned him many contacts in the area. A majority of his internships included gigs with all the professional sport teams in Philadelphia. With a degree in his hand and a solid reputation for being a ‘Go Getter’, Taylor landed his first paying career with the Miami Dolphins. Four years later, Penn University was advertising for a Ticket Sales Manager for Athletics. His solid reputation as a ‘Go Getter’, a native of the area, plus his contacts, and his experience with the Dolphins convinced Penn to hire him. Taylor has now been in charge for one year.
With his pic for the story now etched in Helen, Taylor passed on his DREAMS to my feet for he was PLAYIN HIS DREAMS. He shared a story from sages past. A career as an Athletic Ticket Manager at a University such as Penn, though not as lucrative as a larger university or with a pro team, offers much more personal contact with the Ticket Buyers. Tents selling alcohol and food in the corners of Franklin Field have recently been established. Multiple promotions have been added to bring more teens and children from the neighboring schools for the Celebration of Pigskin.
Some have been more successful than others. An example for tonight’s Combat Battle was shared. A nearby elementary school without returning their invitation, showed up unannounced to perform the National Anthem. Growth was discussed and as long Growth was evident, Taylor will be able to PLAYIN HIS DREAMS as long he wants, desires and needs. When asked of future goals, Taylor said, ‘To get to know people in order to serve them better’. With that attitude, Taylor can position his status for a lengthy career with Penn Athletics. Before departing, thanks were exchanged and a question about my ticket was asked by Taylor. To ‘Serve My Feet Better’, Taylor offered my feet any seat in Franklin Field that was not occupied. He then placed his card in my hand and said to use it if needed. Taylor Forlano was applying his principles of ‘Getting to Know People Better’.
With so many options to choose from, my feet then made their way to the 50-yard line, 1st row, directly behind the benches of the Penn Gladiators. The 1st rows of Franklin Field seats are elevated from the field so obstructions by Gladiators in the bench area was minimal. The wide artificial track also separated the stands from the bench area and the field. Unlike the Yale Bowl and Harvard Stadium, the Smells of the Combat Battle and field would be mitigated. Plus, one-man acts of coaches would be further away. The Elementary School Choir performed the National Anthem.
MORE IMAGES OF PRE-BATTLE
THE COMBAT BATTLE WAS ABOUT TO COMMENCE
As the Combat Battle waged on, walking down the front aisle was Angel Wendy and a few members of her Penn Welcoming Committee. When she reached my feet, more pleasantries were exchanged along with talk about the selection of my seat. When told of Taylor’s offering for any unoccupied seat in Franklin Field, Angel Wendy identified Taylor as the Ticket Manager. She said that Taylor’s offering was ‘Vintage Taylor’. With breaks in the Battle, my seat provided the opportunity to give shout-outs to Angel Matt from Ritual day doing his duties for the ESPN camera operators and to Angel Alex as she shot pics from the sidelines.
A family sitting in my area caught the attention of my feet. Since first pics from my seat were yet to be snapped, a volunteer was requested. One of the daughters, honored my request with the next pics.
Eventually, a request for a pic of their family was asked, for they had a tale to tell. There was mom and dad and two daughters with the daughters separated by their seated parents. It became obvious about the organized separation of the two daughters. Each daughter was wearing different colors supporting each Gladiator Team. To prevent hostilities from breaking out between the 2 daughters, mom and dad decided on the seating arrangements. Originally, mom suggested only the two Combative Daughters for the pic. However, when asked who was footing the bills for these two Ivy Leaguers, dad agreed that the entire family should be in the pic. Questions were then asked about their choice of Universities. Abby wearing Yale colors and my pic shooter, said it was because of the Yale’s Chemical Engineering Department and programs. Jolie, in Penn Colors said that the Nursing Program and Degree at Penn was rated #1 in the world. Nuff said about the next pic.
Halftime was approaching as my feet went in search of Halftime Cuisine. Pics of Penn Faithful are next.
In order not be shut out for food as in Harvard Stadium, a quick tour was again conducted throughout the concourse. This tour eventually took my feet back to the end zone area when a familiar face showed. She was recognized as Taylor’s Assistant Manager from the visit at the Ticket Office on Ritual Day. After her engagement ended with another fan, my feet stepped in. SMILES were exchanged along with Taylor’s stories of my feet’s adventure in the Ticket Office. Jen said that she was a recent grad of Washington & Jefferson in Pennsylvania. With an impressive background and degree in her hand, she was hired by Taylor to be his Assistant Manager right out of college. Her career at Penn was in her second year.
Finally, Halftime Cuisine was purchased for the trek to the end zone for the halftime festivities and the 2nd half of the Combat Battle.
Mike the Lone Fan from Harvard Stadium was correct in his assessment for a seat in the vacated end zones. There are less fans, which equals more Solitude. Another view, changes the experience of the Celebration of Pigskin.
DURING THE 3RD QUARTER OF EACH HOME GAME, THE PENN FANS PARTICIPATE IN A RITUAL OF ‘THROWIN TOAST ‘. NEXT IS A SHORT VIDEO FROM ABOUT 10 YEARS AGO
The engagement with Cuisine of Franklin Field lasted through halftime and into parts of the 4th quarter. My feet finally conceded to the Cuisine.
For the rest of the 4th quarter, my feet joined the Yale Gladiator Faithful. A small hope trailed as my vision scanned the area for parents of the Yale Gladiators that shared their TIME at the Yale Bowl and the Celebration of Pigskin. A spotting was not the result.
Eventually the Combat Battle came to a conclusion. The Battle was raged with high levels of Emotions, Heart, Guile, Tenacity, Valor, and Honor and as usual did not end in a tie. The Yale Gladiators arrived to Franklin Field and according to the touts were an underdog. The final score said otherwise with the Yale Gladiators prevailing victorious in the Celebration of Pigskin at Franklin Field, the ‘Oldest College Football Stadium in the USA’.
FINAL THOUGHTS OF MY 2018 COLLEGE FOOTBALL PILGRIMAGE
One final ticket for a Combat Battle between the Temple Gladiators and the Gladiators of Cincinnati went unused on Saturday, October 20, 2018. After being showered with Blessings and Gifts from 3 of the Oldest College Football Stadiums in the USA, plus a chance to retrace the steps of my feet at Alumni Stadium in Boston College, my mouth and other senses did not want pollution to leave a sour taste for my 2018 CFP. Years ago a pledge was made by my feet, to not ever again sit in Heinz Field, another pro stadium, for a Pitt Gladiator Combat Battle and the Celebration of Pigskin. Not ever in the history of NCAA football championships has a College Gladiator Team sharing a pro stadium ever won a NCAA Gladiator Title. By following that same pledge, my feet decided that the same should apply to Lincoln Financial Field, home turf for the Eagles and the Temple Owls. Instead of ‘Pollution’ being the last taste of my 2018 CFP, my feet wanted to savior the FANTASTIC TASTE of Franklin Field along with the Yale Bowl, Harvard Stadium and Alumni Stadium.
Franklin Field matched and in a few cases exceeded the Blessings & Gifts from the other Gladiator Shrines during my 2018 CFP. Pics with the Penn Cheer Squad and a ‘Local Beauty’ from Penn were additional Blessings and Gifts that kept a current streak alive heading into the 2019 CFP. Though the crowds were not as large as the top 10 Largest College Football Stadiums and other stadiums in the USA, the ‘Oldest College Football Stadiums’ demonstrated their place in TIME with their Hospitality, Generosity, Accommodations, and the chance to ‘Walk Among the Spirits’ that assisted in the Birth of College Football that has morphed into today’s Combat Battles of Gladiators and the Celebration of Pigskin.
My feet were embraced by others as tales of PLAYIN YOUR DREAMS were shared between my feet and others during the 2018 CFP. Our short embraces will be carried to other College Football Pilgrimages and beyond in order to share them with others in need of Blessings & Gifts. Now that the 2018 CFP is in the books, plans are formulating for the 2019 CFP. If TIME & Forces permit, my feet will be at Mississippi University, Mississippi St. University, and Georgia Tech University.
Always remember to Promote and Share the DREAMS of others including your own. Above all, remember to PROTECT your DREAMS. If not, other Dream Stompers will take your DREAMS and have you playin their dreams. For more Tales of INSANITY, visit our Homepage and explore the Sections posted. If your DREAMS spot My 2 Angels of INSANITY, Angel Compassion & Angel Passion, please inform them that the Tokens from the 2018 CFP in the last pic remained securely stored in the Dream Home for pick-up.
Fox Feather
