We had a most magical day in Philadelphia today. Learning about our nation’s history, namely the process of creating and signing the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. This is a place all Americans, young and old, should visit!

At Independence Hall, originally called the Pennsylvania State House, we had the best, most knowledgeable tour guide ever, named Maria Schaller. She gave us a fascinating, detailed account of how our founding fathers debated fighting for our independence, and how the Declaration of Independence was written. We stood in the very room where it all happened, heard accounts of the discussions that took place and the roles the delegates of the 13 original colonies played in obtaining freedom from the British. Thank you, Maria Schaller for knowing your stuff and presenting it in a most fascinating manner. Here are a few facts of the many I learned from her today:

  • The Declaration of Independence was not actually signed until Aug 2, 1776. The final document agreed upon by the delegates from the 13 colonies was finalized on July 4th, about 1 month prior to signing. That is why we celebrate July 4th rather than Aug 2nd as Independence Day.
  • The 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence were kept a secret until about 6 months after the signing to protect the men and their families. Despite this, many of the men and their families suffered hardships – some were captured by the British, others had their properties destroyed.
  • Thomas Jefferson wrote the draft of the Declaration in only 17 days, and more than 80 changes were subsequently made to his draft by the delegation to create the final document that we know.

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The symbol of freedom – Liberty Bell’s mysterious crack, first noticed in the mid 1800′s is a most intriguing sight to see. An attempt many years ago, to repair the crack, failed.

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The Liberty Bell’s original home was in the tower of Independence Hall. The tower is currently undergoing a repair. Now the Bell it is on display in a separate modern building for all to see.

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Old City Hall.

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Inside the Old City Hall. Thank you guide, Stewart Low for giving us insight into the courtroom in 1731.

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Maria Schaller giving a most informative group tour. You will be very fortunate if you get her on your tour!

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The very room where the Declaration was proposed, discussed, agreed upon and signed. The chair in the back of the room is the only original piece of furniture and is the chair George Washington actually sat in!

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Close-up of chair.

Some tips if you go. First you must get a free ticket at the Independence Visitors Center, run by The National Park Service. Tours are for specific times and can fill up fast. The Old City Hall is located next to Independence Hall and doesn’t require a ticket. The Liberty Bell is across the street from Independence Hall. There are many other historic sights to see in this area. Be sure to bring a camera.

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