Independence National Historical Park

July 6, 2021

The Independence National Historical Park, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, represents the founding ideals of the United States of America ... and preserves national and international symbols of freedom and democracy ... including Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and the Liberty Bell.

Independence Hall
In 1776, the Second Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence here. Eleven years later, in the same room, delegates to the Constitutional Convention created and signed an enduring framework of government - the United States Constitution. Although known today as Independence Hall, the building was constructed to be the Pennsylvania State House. It once housed all three branches of Pennsylvania’s colonial government.

Congress Hall
From 1790 to 1800, Philadelphia served as the temporary capital of the U.S. During that time, the U.S. Congress met in Congress Hall. The House of Representatives met on the first floor while the Senate convened upstairs. Presidents George Washington (second term) and John Adams both took the oath of office in this building.

Liberty Bell
The Liberty Bell was originally made to hang in the Pennsylvania State House. Today that building is known as Independence Hall and can be seen through the window behind the bell.

Image created by USA Patriotism! from U.S. National Park Service photos.

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