Tommy Loughran (1902-1982)
Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
World Light Heavyweight Champion from 1927 to 1929. He boxed during the "Golden Age of Boxing" in many weight classes, besting 10 champs in his 18-year career. The "Philly Phantom" had a scientific style, built on precision and maneuverability rather than brute force. Considered a gentleman both in and out of the ring. In 1991 he was elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Loughran was devoted to his neighborhood and church here.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
Tommy Loughran rose to fame in the 1920s, boxing's 'Golden Age,' when the sport commanded the same national spotlight as baseball. The 'Philly Phantom' held the World Light Heavyweight title from 1927 to 1929 and won with brains rather than brawn, using footwork and precision to outmaneuver bigger, harder-hitting men. A gentleman inside the ring and out, he stayed devoted to the Philadelphia neighborhood and church that raised him.
Why it matters
Loughran typified the artful, scientific boxer of the interwar era and the deep roots that made Philadelphia one of America's great fight towns.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial2.1 mi away
- Hill-Physick House2.1 mi away · 321 South 4th Street
- Bridgette Mayer2.2 mi away · 709 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Powel House2.3 mi away · 244 South 3rd Street
- Congress Hall2.3 mi away · Philadelphia, PA
- Independence Hall2.3 mi away · 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Attractions
- Italian market1.5 mi away · Christian Street
- Commandant's Quarters1.7 mi away
- One Liberty Observation Deck2.2 mi away
- The Universal Sphere2.4 mi away
- Liberty Bell2.4 mi away · 526 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Second Bank of the United States2.4 mi away · 420 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Food & drink
- Talula's Garden2.1 mi away · 210 West Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA
- Talula's Daily2.2 mi away · 208 West Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA
- Fat Salmon2.2 mi away · 719 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Cafe Walnut2.2 mi away · 703 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Maya's Pizza & Grill2.2 mi away · 716 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Thank You Thank You Coffee Roasters2.2 mi away · 700 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places to stay
- Alexander Inn1.9 mi away · 301 301 South 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, Philadelphia, PA
- Fairfield Inn & Suites1.9 mi away · 261 South 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City1.9 mi away · 237 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Cambria Hotel Philadelphia Downtown - Center City2.0 mi away · 219 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Holiday Inn Express2.1 mi away · 1305-11 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Morris House Hotel2.1 mi away · 225 South 8th Street, Philadelphia, PA
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Related people
- · Tommy Loughran
Themes & tags
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