With Independence Day coming up this weekend, I thought I would share a few interesting tidbits about the place where it all began.
The Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall is where America's freedom was born. The vital debates, the drafting of the documents, and ultimately the vote of in favor of independence took place in this historic building. Independence Hall is now listed a World Heritage site.
The Pennsylvania State House was undertaken in the spring of 1729 with a budget of 2,000 pounds, but it took until October of 1730 for them to begin purchasing lots on Chestnut Street. Andrew Hamilton was intricately involved in the site selection and construction of the building.
Andrew Hamilton and Dr. John Kearsley were the two men charged with the design of the building, but they could not agree on a design. Kearsley had designed other well known structures such as Christ Church and St. Peter's Church, so he was just sure his design was best. Hamilton didn't agree. The disputes escalated to the point that they brought their disagreement before the House of Representatives in 1732. The state house accepted Hamilton's design and location, and granted him full control of the project. Hamilton didn't waste any time. He broke ground on the project shortly after, but it took until 1753 to complete the project.
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| Assembly Hall CC Photo Credit: Antoine Taveneaux |
Hamilton designed the structure in the Georgian style. It is a beautiful red brick building with a bell tower and steeple. The highest point of the steeple is almost 170 feet high.
The Pennsylvania State House was the principle meeting place of the Second Continental Congress between 1775 thru 1783. Most of the meetings took place in the Assembly Hall, which was on the main level, but many of the committees met in the upstairs rooms, or the Supreme Court room across from the Assembly Hall.
Independence Hall has been honored on a US postage stamp, as well as on the half-dollar coin.
I was thoroughly intrigued by your little history lesson. I can't wait to share this with my hubby, b/c he's an even bigger history buff. Great giveaway, as well.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for stopping by, Tosado. I am so glad you enjoyed it. I had fun researching the location for the stories. :)
DeleteFabulous thank you.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mary! Best wishes in the giveaway.
DeleteThanks for your post. It brought back lots of good memories. My husband and I spent a couple of days in Philly during our honeymoon (long time ago!) and visited Independence Hall.
ReplyDeleteThat's awesome, Linda! We briefly visited a few of the sites in Philly once, but I was very young, so I don't remember a lot. I would love to go back --in person, rather than just online. ;)
DeleteThank you, Amber for your great post! Independence Hall is such a stately building and a visit there is wonderful.
ReplyDeleteYou're so blessed to have visited! I would love to physically stand in the room where so many patriots gathered. *sigh*
DeleteA great post, Amber. We have friends in Philadelphia and we love visiting Independence Hall and all the historical spots. Its awesome to stand in the room where they argued over the details in the Declaration. It certainly brings history to life.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Peggy. I'm sure it would! I want to visit Independence Hall in person someday. Pictures and online research just don't do justice. :)
DeleteInteresting post.. And my you have a very happy & safe Independence Day!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Deanna! I hope you do as well. :)
DeleteI love history! Thank You!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you enjoyed the post, Karen! Thanks for stopping by, and best wishes in the giveaway!!
DeleteThe book, "Declaration of Independence Anthology" would be a wonderful addition to our church library. Thanks for entering me in your giveaway.
ReplyDeleteJanet E.
von1janet(at)gmail(dot)com
Thanks for entering the giveaway Janet! I hope you can snag this one for your church library!
DeleteI believe that July 4th was the right choice. Thank you for this giveaway.
ReplyDeleteConnie