Photograph

Historical Society of Pennsylvania photograph collection (Collection V59 box 65 folder 9)

In the 1800s and 1900s, the Mummers Parade was a staple of South Philadelphia Irish and Italian American culture. With roots that go back to the 1600s, it was also influenced by the traditions of ethnic groups that arrived in the area earlier, including Swedes and Germans. As seen here, the parade’s elaborate costumes have often included drag.

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