Happy 214th Birthday Charles Dickens!

The wreath is placed on Little Nell

Two weeks ago, community members gathered to celebrate Charles Dickens 214th Birthday Party! It may seem odd that our little corner of Philadelphia was celebrating a long-past English writer - but not when you realize that Clark Park is home to one of only three statues in the world of Charles Dickens! The story behind how Clark Park came to be home of such a rarity is a story for another time, however the story of what happened at Dickens' 214th Birthday Part is one for now!

Attendees were able to witness Cameron O'Grady portray a young Charles Dickens as well as hear reading from him and other speakers like a guest from the Friends of Dickens New York Branch, and local neighborhood actor Bill Burrison. After the readings, attendees were treated to a wonderful English Folk Dance by the Kingsessing Morris Men, whose incredible performance is an annual staple at Dickens' Day. The crowd then proceeded to the Charles Dickens' statue and wish him a happy birthday!

This time-honored Friends of Clark Park event is a fantastic way to learn about the rich history of Clark Park and the neighborhood. We can't wait to see everyone again next year! Happy Birthday Charles Dickens!

Dickens Day 2026 Celebration!

Join us for a festive Dickens celebration in the park!

We’ll gather at Elmwood Methodist Church for the main program, then walk together to the Dickens statue for a short ceremony and dancing—featuring the Kingsessing Morris Dancers.

Afterward, keep the celebration going with pizza at Clarkville, compliments of FoCP

Program: 2:00–3:30 P

Statue ceremony & dancing to follow

Clarkville gathering around 4:00–4:30 PM

Come celebrate community, tradition, and a little Dickensian joy—we’d love to see you there!

FoCP Cofounder, Barry Grossbach, has passed away at the age of 86.

Barry Grossbach during an interview in 2024

The Friends of Clark Park are sad to share that Barry Grossbach, one of The Friends’ cofounders, passed away on December 18^th, 2025. He was 86 years old. Barry was an invaluable member of the community who volunteered his time and donated his money to a variety of causes. Barry helped create the formation of University City District, served as a board member of Spruce Hill Community Association, and was a founding member of The Friends of Clark Park. He and his late husband, Mike Hardy, resided in Spruce Hill for over 50 years.

During his years with The Friends of Clark Park, Barry provided immense help to our organization by organizing efforts to improve Clark Park as much as possible. His early efforts laid a solid foundation for our organization to build upon and is the reason we are as strong as we are today.

Additionally, Barry generously contributed financially to the Friends of Clark Park. He donated 400,000 dollars of his own money to contribute to the Clark Park Plan and has provided funding to various organizations to improve greenery in the surrounding area. Barry also purchased property at the corner of 43^rd and Osage with the express purpose of turning into a community garden.

Community members like Barry are what make us – us. His legacy will be felt for decades through the incredible physical environment that he helped cultivate. Barry has been laid to rest at The Woodlands and will never be far from Clark Park. We will miss you, Barry. Thank you for everything you have done.