One Ridley Family Keeps Mummers Tradition Going for Generations

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Kelly Moran, center, of Ridley Township, is all smiles at last year’s Mummers Parade in Philadelphia, surrounded by her husband Joe Moran Jr., left, and her son Aidan Moran, right. Aidan is a junior at Ridley High School. He started marching in the parade at age 3 in 2005. Image via Daily Times.

The Mummers are part of the Moran family bloodline, writes Peg DeGrassa for the Daily Times.

Joe Moran marked his 36th year playing baritone sax with the South Philadelphia String Band on New Year’s Day. His father, Joe Moran Sr., has been marching with the band for 59 years.  Also joining them Jan. 1 was Joe Moran’s brother, Michael Moran; cousin Jimmy Moran, and other cousins.

Joe’s son, Aidan Moran, 17, a Ridley High junior, also geared up for his Broad Street strut.

The Ridley Township family’s connection to the South Philadelphia band started with Joe’s grandfather, James “Shoes” Moran, and great uncle, the late James Moran.

Then there’s Joe Moran’s wife.  Kelly Anderson Moran is affiliated with the Woodland String Band.

Her dad, David Anderson of Springfield, marched in the 2020 parade and was a former Woodland captain from 1994-2005.

Kelly Anderson’s grandfather, the late David Anderson Sr., was a former captain of the Woodland String Band

“Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I would not only marry a Mummer but have a son who adores it as much as my dad and husband do,” Kelly smiled. “It’s definitely in the blood!”

Read more about this Mummers family history here.

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