Doesn’t that statue command respect? This is the John B. Kelly Statue. We stand before a tribute to an extraordinary man. John B. Kelly Sr. was more than just an athlete. He was a symbol of Irish American achievement.
The John B. Kelly Statue commemorates a life of gold medals and breaking barriers. Kelly was a triple Olympic champion in rowing. He secured his place in history. He won the single scull in 1920. He also won the double scull in 1920 and 1924.
This statue is on Kelly Drive. It shows Kelly in action. He powerfully pulls the oars. You can see his muscles flex. The John B. Kelly Statue is not just art. It embodies the spirit of a Philadelphian hero.
Kelly’s story is a classic American tale. His father emigrated from County Mayo. He embodies the Irish striving for success. The family settled in the East Falls area. They overlooked the Schuylkill River.
Here in Philadelphia, John B. Kelly began his bricklaying career. This would later cause controversy. It almost kept him out of the Henley Royal Regatta.
In 1920, the Henley Royal Regatta rejected Kelly. They cited his manual labor. Their rules excluded mechanics and laborers. This decision sparked outrage. Many felt it was unfair.
But Kelly didn’t back down. Instead, he sought redemption at the 1920 Olympics. He defeated Jack Beresford. Beresford was the Henley champion. This victory was sweet revenge.
Adding to his triumph, Kelly won the double sculls with his cousin Paul Costello. He achieved a feat unmatched in Olympic history. Legend says Kelly sent his racing cap to King George V. The note read “Greetings from a bricklayer.”
The John B. Kelly Statue reminds us of his achievements. It reminds us of his family’s legacy. His daughter Grace Kelly became Princess of Monaco. His son Jack Kelly Jr. was an Olympic medalist. He was also president of the U.S. Olympic Committee.
Harry Rosin created this bronze statue. It was erected in 1965. It captures Kelly’s strength and determination. The statue stands near the finish line of the Schuylkill River course. This is where Kelly rowed.
Every year, USRowing presents the Jack Kelly Award. This honors individuals who exemplify Kelly’s ideals. These include athletic achievement, service, and professional success.
Consider John B. Kelly’s impact beyond sports. He served as Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Revenue. He ran for mayor of Philadelphia. He chaired the Fairmount Park Commission. Kelly was even the National Physical Fitness Director during World War II.
The John B. Kelly Statue is more than bronze and granite. It is a testament to perseverance. It is a symbol of overcoming obstacles. It represents the spirit of Philadelphia. It embodies the American dream.