WHEREAS, In 1862, The Union League was founded as a patriotic society to support the policies of President Abraham Lincoln and loyalty to the Union Cause during the American Civil War; and
WHEREAS, The Union League of Philadelphia was the first and is the oldest and most prominent of the Loyalty Leagues; and
WHEREAS, Its strikingly beautiful Second Empire building was designed by architect John Fraser, and was built during the years 1864 and 1865 with a brick and brownstone façade, and stately twin circular staircases leading to the main entrance at 140 South Broad Street, opening in 1865; and
WHEREAS, Major Beaux Arts-style additions designed by famed architect Horace Trumbauer were completed in 1910 and 1911; and
WHEREAS, The Union League of Philadelphia's motto The Love of Country Leads has inspired generations of influential Philadelphians in service to the City, the Commonwealth, and the Nation; and
WHEREAS, The Union League of Philadelphia has hosted United States Presidents, heads of state, industrialists, entertainers, and dignitaries from around the World; and
WHEREAS, The Membership of the Union League of Philadelphia still provides vision and leadership in the fields of business, education, religion, culture and the arts, which has greatly benefited our illustrious City and for which we are grateful; and
WHEREAS, The Union League of Philadelphian has evolved to meet the needs of its Membership through interior and exterior renovations, and reconstruction to recreate spaces as guest rooms, restaurants, a business center, and a fitness center; and
WHEREAS, The Union League of Philadelphia has organized three charitable institutions to carry out its important philanthropic missions: The Abraham Lincoln Foundation, The Youth Work Foundation, and The Scholarship Foundation; and
WHEREAS, In 2012, The Union League has been voted the Best City Club in the Country, bringing great honor and prestige to our City, and we wish it 150 more years of excellent service; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes and celebrates the 150th Anniversary of The Union League of Philadelphia.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to The Union League of Philadelphia as sincere sentiments of this legislative body.
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