Philadelphia Designated Keith Haring Mural As Historic

The Philadelphia Historical Commission voted to preserve the 1987 We the Youth mural in the Point Breeze neighborhood.

Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Historical

Philadelphia Designated Keith Haring Mural As Historic

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The Philadelphia Historical Commission unanimously approved the historic designation for the Keith Haring mural titled We the Youth. Located at 2147 Ellsworth St., the artwork is now protected as a historic object.

Why it matters

The designation ensures the city maintains oversight regarding the treatment of the property and its preservation. The decision followed significant public support for protecting the unique piece of local history.

Created in 1987 to commemorate the U.S. Constitution bicentennial, the mural is one of only 70 works Haring completed in his lifetime. The site at 2147 Ellsworth St. houses the last remaining Haring outdoor mural in its original location.

The players

Philadelphia Historical Commission

This is the city agency responsible for identifying and protecting historic resources within Philadelphia.

Keith Haring

He was a globally recognized American artist known for his vibrant pop art and social activism.

The details

Commissioners moved to add the mural to the city's registry as a protected object during an official meeting. This status allows Philadelphia to influence how the party wall property is handled in future planning or development.

The mural was created in 1987.
The Philadelphia Historical Commission voted to designate the mural on October 9, 2026.

Culture Shift

This preservation effort reflects a shift toward protecting modern public art as essential cultural heritage. It highlights how communities are increasingly prioritizing the legacy of iconic 20th-century street art alongside traditional historical landmarks.

Residents in the Point Breeze neighborhood will see the mural protected under municipal oversight to prevent its removal or degradation. This change ensures the landmark remains a permanent fixture of the local aesthetic and historical identity.

The takeaway

Preserving street art through municipal registries safeguards works that are often vulnerable to urban development. Residents can support such efforts by participating in public comment periods when historic nominations are reviewed by city commissions.