William, Edward, & George Vare: The Dukes of South Philadelphia

Biographical Bytes from Bala #036: William, Edward & George Vare: The Dukes of South Philadelphia

The Vare brothers grew up unschooled, slopping hogs and hawking vegetables in "The Neck", the poorest section of Philadelphia.  They got into trash collection and within a few years were scooping up city contracts by the armful.  They grew rich and powerful along the way and eventually even collected a kickback from the mayor.  All three Vare brothers are interred at Laurel Hill West.

Historian, author, and fellow Laurel Hill Tour Guide Thomas Keels tells you their story.