Happy 250, America, from Independence Hall!

In honor of our 250th birthday, today’s post celebrates where it all happened: Independence Hall in Philadelphia. For those not in the know, the Declaration of Independence was adopted on this day in 1776 and marked the official separation of our country from the British Empire. Was it all smooth sailing after that day? Hell no! It rarely is, but here we are today, still able to celebrate. Originally known as the Pennsylvania State House, this brick building has become called Independence Hall in honor of that day 250 years ago. This vintage undated 1950s image was most likely taken at an event on Independence Day. Anyone out there know who the “dignitaries” are? You can see the Liberty Bell through the doorway.



In May 1967, the family made its first trek to Independence Hall after our move to Pennsylvania:



I’m the shortest one; in the large envelope my brother holds a souvenir copy of the Declaration of Independence:



I have photographed this historic place many times over the years including December 1983:



July 2009:



Even some interior shots of the Assembly Room where the signing occurred, circa November 2010:



If this desk and pen set could talk…



My most recent photos are from June 2014; I think I’m overdue for a return.



A November 2010 shot of the Liberty Bell, which no longer resides inside of Independence Hall, but rather across the street:



Nearby is the National Constitution Center, which I visited in June 2014. It includes 42 life-size bronze statues of the framers of the Constitution in a display titled, “Signers’ Hall Walk.” When I went, you could actually walk up to each statue and see every amazing detail.



From the website:

…relive the moment that launched a government ruled by “We the People.” One of the museum’s most popular and iconic attractions, Signers’ Hall invites you to walk among the framers who added their name to the Constitution—as well as those who dissented—on September 17, 1787. Signers’ Hall brings to life the final day of the Constitutional Convention in the Assembly Room of the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall. There are numerous famous faces in the room, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, and Alexander Hamilton. Pose beside your favorite framer for a great photo op. The statues in Signers’ Hall were created by artists at Studio EIS in Brooklyn, who used numerous historical sources, including portraits and written descriptions, to create the most accurate likenesses possible.





Benjamin Franklin:



See more Independence Hall photos at my main website.