Today in Wheeling History: August 11--The character "Father Wheeling," symbolizing the city's resilience and spirit, made his debut in a newspaper political cartoon in the Wheeling Intelligencer, capturing the hearts of the community and becoming a beloved emblem of Wheeling (1906).
"Father Wheeling," also known as "Pa Wheeling," made his first appearance in a newspaper political cartoon on August 11, 1906. This character was presumably based on Ebenezer Zane, one of the founders of Wheeling, and became a popular symbol of the city during the Progressive Era. "Father Wheeling" was depicted as a long-suffering, yet resilient figure, representing the spirit and perseverance of the Wheeling community.
The character quickly gained popularity and was featured in various newspapers and magazines. "Father Wheeling" became a recurring figure in political cartoons, often used to comment on local and national issues. His portrayal as a wise and enduring character resonated with the people of Wheeling, making him a beloved symbol of the city. The character's popularity extended beyond the Progressive Era, and he continued to appear in cartoons and other media throughout the early 20th century.
During World War I, "Father Wheeling" was even used for recruitment purposes, reminding men to register for the draft. By the early 1930s, the Wheeling Chamber of Commerce adopted "Pa Wheeling" as a mascot for their "Forward Wheeling" publication, promoting progress and development in the city. The character's enduring appeal was evident during Wheeling's centennial celebration in 1936, where "Pa Wheeling" appeared in more modern attire alongside "Ma Wheeling".
The legacy of "Father Wheeling" continues to be celebrated in the city. His image serves as a reminder of Wheeling's rich history and the resilience of its people. The character's evolution over the years reflects the changing times and the enduring spirit of the Wheeling community.
To learn more: (https://shorturl.at/FHMpu) (https://shorturl.at/Yy7wI) (https://shorturl.at/uDwbR) (https://shorturl.at/ZA2lA)
Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV; Wheeling Intelligencer
"Father Wheeling," also known as "Pa Wheeling," made his first appearance in a newspaper political cartoon on August 11, 1906. This character was presumably based on Ebenezer Zane, one of the founders of Wheeling, and became a popular symbol of the city during the Progressive Era. "Father Wheeling" was depicted as a long-suffering, yet resilient figure, representing the spirit and perseverance of the Wheeling community.
The character quickly gained popularity and was featured in various newspapers and magazines. "Father Wheeling" became a recurring figure in political cartoons, often used to comment on local and national issues. His portrayal as a wise and enduring character resonated with the people of Wheeling, making him a beloved symbol of the city. The character's popularity extended beyond the Progressive Era, and he continued to appear in cartoons and other media throughout the early 20th century.
During World War I, "Father Wheeling" was even used for recruitment purposes, reminding men to register for the draft. By the early 1930s, the Wheeling Chamber of Commerce adopted "Pa Wheeling" as a mascot for their "Forward Wheeling" publication, promoting progress and development in the city. The character's enduring appeal was evident during Wheeling's centennial celebration in 1936, where "Pa Wheeling" appeared in more modern attire alongside "Ma Wheeling".
The legacy of "Father Wheeling" continues to be celebrated in the city. His image serves as a reminder of Wheeling's rich history and the resilience of its people. The character's evolution over the years reflects the changing times and the enduring spirit of the Wheeling community.
To learn more: (https://shorturl.at/FHMpu) (https://shorturl.at/Yy7wI) (https://shorturl.at/uDwbR) (https://shorturl.at/ZA2lA)
Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV; Wheeling Intelligencer
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