Mr. Harmelin had a hand in creating the Barnes Foundation, the Convention Center, and the National Constitution Center, among other institutions.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, female reformers promoted the plantings for charity and to spur urban renewal. Then they took on a more political, activist meaning.

"Building Ghosts," a recent book from Temple University Press, suggests new ways to look at durable artifacts displayed on party walls across Philly.

For years, the vast Forked River Mountains Wilderness Area that caught fire recently had been abused by off-road-vehicle riders, partyers, and young people lighting bonfires.

As digital transactions have become the norm, partners who are splitting are getting more creative in how they hide assets.