Old Philadelphians are people who come from the oldest, most established families in Philadelphia, going back several generations. These families were usually very wealthy, and they had a lot of power and influence in the city.
Think of it this way: You know how some families in your school or neighborhood seem to be in charge of everything, like they're the bosses? Well, Old Philadelphians were like that for their city. They were involved in politics, business, high society, and other important areas of life.
These families often have a long history in Philadelphia, and they can trace their roots back to the earliest days of the city. They were some of the first settlers, or they may have arrived later but still became important figures over time.
Some famous Old Philadelphians you may have heard of include the Biddles, the Cadwaladers, the DuPonts, the Johnsons, the Lodges, and the Wideners. These families were known for their luxurious lifestyles, their elegant homes and estates, and their philanthropy and civic involvement.
Today, the term Old Philadelphian is still used to refer to people from these families, but it's not as common as it used to be. In many ways, the city has changed a lot since the heyday of the Old Philadelphians, and new families and cultures have emerged. But even today, there are still reminders of this important part of Philadelphia's history all around us.