The largest Neo-Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral in America, St. Patrick’s, sits on 5th Avenue, directly across from Rockefeller’s Atlas statue. Filling one city block and able to accommodate 3000 people, St. Patrick’s is the seat of the Archdiocese of New York.

The land on which the Cathedral is built was originally bought in 1810 by the Jesuits, who built a college on the site, along with a chapel dedicated to St. Ignatius (founder of the Jesuit order). Four years later, the college closed and the property was sold to the diocese ( which had designed plans for a cemetery on the site, along with a “modest” framed parish church dedicated to St. John the Evangelist). Unfortunately, increasing financial problems forced these plans to be abandoned. The property was then sold at auction in 1844. An old college hall became a temporary church while fund-raising efforts were developed to buy back the property. The debt was finally paid off in 1853. Since the congregation was growing rapidly, the need for a larger church was seen, specifically a Cathedral to replace an older St. Patrick’s in lower Manhattan. At that time, the property, in what is now known as mid-town, was three miles north of the populated area of New York City. Construction of the new Cathedral began in 1858, but was put on hold during the American Civil War. Resuming in 1865, construction was completed in 1878. An archbishop’s house and a rectory were added in 1880. In 1882, a school was added (but this no longer exists). The 329 foot six inch spires were added in 1888, making the Cathedral the tallest structure in New York at the time, and the second tallest in North America. [Having grown up in the Boston area, we were pleased to learn of a connection with St. Patrick’s; i.e. marble quarried in Massachusetts and stained glass panels used in the windows, both came from Boston; in addition, Boston-born Robert Kennedy’s wake and funeral were held in this Cathedral].

In the crypt under the main altar are the remains of nine former cardinals, as well as that of television personality, Bishop Fulton J. Sheen. Beginning in 2012, a three year extensive renovation project was undertaken.

This largest Roman Catholic Cathedral in the United States, which was named after the patron saint of Ireland because of the increasing numbers of Irish immigrants in the city, has 21 altars and 19 bells ( each of which is named after a different saint). St. Patrick’s hosts 18 worship services per day and up to 150 weddings per year. It has been featured n numerous films and novels. Visited by nearly five million people per year, St. Patrick’s was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015. This was truly an interesting church to visit.

Located along New York City’s 5th Avenue, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic archdiocese of New York. The large police presence in front is an unfortunate part of the tenure of today’s society.

It is directly opposite Rockefeller Center’s famous Atlas statue.

The workmanship that went into every part of the construction process is evident everywhere.

Even the massive main doors are amazing!

At the beginning of our journey, we were advised to explore any religious structure, regardless of denomination, because we would find them equally beautiful...

...that certainly is true here.

What a gorgeous rose window!

Some of the most stunning stained glass windows are here.

The pulpit, from which daily sermons are offered, is a work of art on its own.

Everywhere we looked, the splendor of the Cathedral was evident to us.

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the 843 acre Central Park in New York City was created in 1857. With construction beginning in 1858 ( on the original 778 acre site), and continuing through the American Civil War, it was eventually expanded to its current size in 1873.

Between 1821 and 1855, New York City saw a four-fold growth in its population. As a result, people expressed a desire for a green space to get away from the noise and chaos of urban life. They had expressed their need for a public park as early as 1844. Nine years later, the New York City Council settled on a 700+ acre piece of land to serve this need. Prior to this time, the land had been occupied for fifty years by Irish immigrants and free blacks who had purchased lots to raise livestock, build churches and cemeteries, as well as to construct shanty towns. So, this area had to be cleared of these inhabitants (around 1600), under the “Eminent Domain Eviction Rule,” before construction could begin. A design competition for the new Park was established in 1857, which was won by Olmsted and Vaux. Their design was influenced, in part, by the Cambridge, Massachusetts Mount Auburn landscaped Cemetery, and included thirty-two bridges (no two alike). Olmsted and the New York Park Commission battled many times over the construction process, resulting in Olmsted’s removal several times as Central Park’s superintendent (he was always brought back). By 1873, most of the construction was completed, with approximately four million trees, shrubs, and plants (representing 1500 species) being transplanted into the park. [While doing my research on the history of Central Park, I learned one bit of trivia; more gunpowder was used to clear the land than was used at the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War]. When the Park was opened to the public, there originally were 18 entrance gates that were named to represent the range of New York Trades involved in the park’s construction. From the 1860’s until 1934, sheep grazed in the “Sheep Meadow” until they were moved to a park in Brooklyn. Later renovations to Central Park added 18 playgrounds, as well as a dozen ballparks and handball courts. The “Shakespeare in the Park Festival” began its Central Park performances in 1960. By 1980, the “Dairy” (which was originally slated to be a refreshment stand) was transformed into the park’s first Visitors Center.

Today, the Park is operated and maintained by the Central Park Conservancy, which, in 2012, received a $100 million gift ( the largest donation to the New York Park system) from financier John Paulson for continued maintenance and renovations. In addition to being one of New York City’s top attractions (with nearly four million visitors per year), Central Park is one of the most filmed locations in the world. There are many park’s throughout New York City and we visited, and enjoyed, a number of them (some of which will be posted about later on) during our stay. With that being said, Central Park was our favorite respite spot, making a number of visits here in our three weeks stay.

Bounded by 5th Ave on the East, 8th Avenue on the West (also known as Central Park West), 58th Street in the South, and 110th Street in the North, Central Park is a green space respite in the middle of New York city...

...and is frequented by locals and tourists daily.

There are 29 sculptures throughout the park, like this one named “Balto” which is dedicated to the dogsled teams that delivered medicine, through a snow storm, for a diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska.

One of the more popular sculptures is the “Alice in Wonderland Statue” (just north of the Conservatory Water) created by José de Creet under the commission of George Delacort.

If you are into remote controlled model sail boating, the “Conservatory Water” pond is the place to go...

...or you can simply walk the dogs...

...or take a horse and carriage ride.

One of the more beautiful spots is the Shakespeare Garden...

...but a close second is the Belvedere Castle (originally built in 1869 and renovated in 1983, to now serve as the Henry Luce Nature Center).

Originally designed as a refreshment stand, “The Dairy” is now the park’s Visitor Center.

In an area known as “Turtle Bay” ( once the site of slaughter houses and tenament buildings), along the East River portion of Mid-Town New York City, is the International headquarters of the United Nations (approximately 200 yards from the front door of our apartment building). It was created on June 26, 1945 as a replacement for what many felt was an ineffective League of Nations. The UN has been described as an “Intergovernmental Organization tasked to promote international cooperation and to create and maintain international order” (quoted from its mission statement). Fifty-one member states comprised the original beginnings of the UN. There now are 193 member states. During its early years, adhering to the goals of its mission statement was complicated by the “Cold War” between the United States and the Soviet Union (two of the five permanent member states, which also included France, The United Kingdom, and the Republic of China -also known as Taiwan; however, in 1971, this was changed to the People’s Republic of China - otherwise known as mainland China). The 18 acre headquarters site is considered to be “International Territory” with its own security force (The New York Police Department patrols the outside perimeter, but has no jurisdiction within the grounds of the property).

Prior to the establishment of the UN, several international treaty organizations tried to regulate conflicts around the world; these included the International Committee of the Red Cross, The Hague Conventions of 1899 and 1907, the Paris Peace Conference, and the League of Nations (with varying degrees of success -although critics of the UN say the same thing about its efforts). Six languages have been identified as the official means of communication at the UN; i.e. Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish. Administratively, it is organized into six departments; (1) General Assembly, (2) Security Council, (3) Economic and Social Council, (4) Secretariate, (5) International Court of Justice (centered at The Hague ), and (6) UN Trusteeship Council (which has been inactive since 1994). In its 73 year history of existence, the United Nations has been involved in attempting to regulate a number of major events, including the partitioning of Palestine which created the State of Israel, the Korean Conflict, the Suez Crisis, the Congo Civil War, and peacekeeping in Cyprus ( one of the UN’s longest peacekeeping missions).

The largest gathering of world leaders in history took place during the “2000 Millennium Summit” in order to look at the UN’s role in the 21st century. This resulted in the formation of the “Millennium Development Goals” of focusing on poverty reduction, public health, and gender equality.

Tours of the United Nation’s headquarters are available, with tickets being obtainable in the Visitors Center across the street from the main entrance. We found this one hour tour to be quite informative.

Perhaps the most recognizable image of the United Nations. One interesting fact we learned was that if it is raining at 8:00 am, none of the flags are put up for the entire day(even if the rain is short lived).

Even though it is physically located in New York City, the UN is considered to be International Territory with its own security force.

Just inside the main gate is the “Knotted Gun” sculpture by Carl Fredrick Reutersward, symbolising the UN’s peacekeeping mission.

Panoramic view of the General Assembly, where the 193 member states meet to adopt resolutions that would affect them all.

Along the side walls are the simultaneous translation booths.

The one area of the UN we recognize the most is the Security Council Chamber, where conflicts around the world are addressed.

Two new potential delegates?

The 54 member Economic and Social Council coordinates the work of 15 specialized agencies (including the Commission on Human Rights and the Commission on the Status of Women).

While the Trusteeship Council was made inactive in 1994, its chamber is used for special meetings.

Norman Rockwell’s “The Golden Rule” (created in 1961) was gifted to the UN by the United States and the Thanksgiving Foundation in 1985.

We’ve mentioned this a number of times in the past (and I’m sure will do so again in the future), one of the fun aspects of our travels is to come across an unanticipated happenstance while on our way to a planned destination. Well..., as we were heading to explore New York’s Central Park, we came upon barricades along 5th Avenue. It seems that we had arrived just at the start of the “Israel 70th Independence Day Parade.” This, apparently, was a big event. Organized by the Israeli Ministry of Culture, New York’s Israeli Consulate, and the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, this turned out to be a five hour Parade. With at least a dozen marching bands, nearly three dozen floats and other vehicles, and too many marching groups to count, this was huge! Among the special guests in the parade was Miri Regu, the Israeli Minister of Culture, along with a delegation from the government of Israel; New York Governor Andrew Cuomo; New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio; as well as numerous State Senators/Assemblymen and New York City Council members (and thanks to the signs that told us who everyone was). The atmosphere was absolutely electrified with enthusiasm and excitement. We had a great time! Central Park will have to wait for another day.

Isreal celebrates its 70th Independence Day and New York City helped with a parade.

Andrew Cuomo (man with the white sash on the left center of the picture), the New York Governor was part of the Parade...

As was NYC Mayor, Bill de Blasio...

...and even Dr. Ruth.

There were marching bands...

...floats...

...dancers...

...even clowns...

...and more marching bands.

Not everyone was happy with the parade...

...a group of Palestinians and ultra-Orthodox Jews (who oppose secular Zionism) tried to make their views heard.

Inspite of the small protest, the celebration of Isreal’s Independance Day was fun.

We found it enjoyable.

Undoubtedly one of the top tourist attractions in New York City, with over four million visitors per year, is the Empire State Building. This art Deco American icon has been featured in more than 250 television shows and movies and has been named “One of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World” by the American Society of Civil Engineers. It is so large, the building was assigned its own zip code (i.e. 10118).
The site on which the Empire State Building was erected, was originally part of the 18th century John and Mary Murray farm. The property passed through a number different owners over the years until financier John Jacob Astor bought it in 1826. Records do not indicate what Astor did with the property. However, in 1893, his grandson, William Waldorf Astor opened the Waldorf hotel on the property. Four years later, the Astor hotel was opened on an adjacent property by cousin John Jacob Astor V. When the two hotels merged, they became the largest in the world at the time with 1300 bedrooms. By the 1920’s, the family felt the hotel was outdated, so they decided to build a replacement further uptown. The property was then sold to the Bethlehem Engineering Corporation, which closed the hotel in May of 1829, with plans to convert it into a 25 story office building. Unfortunately, they defaulted on the loan and the property was sold to the Empire State Inc. This business venture group planned to construct a 50 story office building. After fifteen revisions and the Great Depression, it turned into an 86 story office building. Further revisions later on brought it up to 102 stories, standing at 1454 feet. Opening on May 1, 1831, the Empire State Building became the world’s tallest building and remained so for 40 years.
Perhaps in an omen of things to come, on July 28, 1945, a B-25 Mitchell bomber, flying in thick fog, crashed into the 79th and 80th floors, killing 17 and doing more than a million dollars worth of damage to the building. Following this accident, the Federal Aviation Administration required strict new rules about flying in New York City.
The Empire State Building has been the residence for a number of famous tenants, including former New York Governor and presidential candidate Al Smith, the Greater New York City Council of the Boy Scouts of America, NBC television, Air China, and LinkedIn , among others. Today, there are five television stations and nineteen radio stations that call the building home. In 1986, the Empire State Building was designated a National Historic Landmark.

Aerial view of the Empire State Building (“borrowed” from a promotional exhibit and obviously not one I took).

A street view does not quite capture the whole building.

In the lobby is this relief sculpture of the building.

Archival photo of the building’s construction (that is the Chrysler building in the background).

At the observation deck near the top of the building. This was NOT one of my favorite places (heights and I do not get along very well).

I do have to admit that the views from the top are spectacular!

In July of 1945, a B-25 Mitchell bomber crashed into the 79th/80th floors.

Killing 17 and causing around $1,000,000 worth of damage.

One of the world’s most visited tourist attractions (with an estimated 22 million visitors - not just passengers -per year) was just two blocks from our New York City apartment. Officially known as “Grand Central Terminal,” but somewhat affectionately called “Grand Central Station” ( but purests claim this latter name should more properly refer to the U.S. Post Office down the street) has been described by the BBC’s David Cannadine (February of 2013) as “... one of the more majestic buildings of the 20th century.” Covering 48 acres and with 44 platforms (more than any other railroad station in the world), the Terminal was built and named by the New York Central Railroad, which, at the time, was controlled by Cornelius Vanderbilt. The hall named for Vanderbilt, facing Pershing Square on 42nd Street, was the original main waiting room ( now it is used for the annual Christmas market, special events, and rentals for private social occasions). The center piece of Grand Central Terminal is its main concourse; covering 88,000 square feet, its 12 story tall ceiling is painted with 2500 stars and zodiac constellations. Facing 42nd Street on the outside of the Terminal is the 13 foot facade clock containing the world’s largest example of Tiffany glass, surrounded by a sculpture representing Minerva, Hercules, and Mercury.

Three buildings, serving the same function, have actually existed on this site; (1) The Grand Central Depot, financed by Cornelius Vanderbilt, opened in 1871 following the merger of the Hudson River and New York Central Railroads; (2) During the period between 1899 and 1900, the building was extensively renovated and expanded from three to six stories, which then became known as Grand Central Station; (3) Between 1903 and 1913, the entire building was demolished in stages and eventually replaced by the current Grand Central Terminal (opening on February 2, 1913 as the biggest Terminal in the world).

The construction of Grand Central Terminal created a mini-city, known as the “Grand Central Zone,” stretching from 42nd Street to 51st Street. This includes eight hotels, along with numerous office buildings and luxury apartments (truly prime real estate). From 1939 until 1964, CBS television occupied a large portion of the building above the main waiting room. From their studios here, WCBS-TV televised shows such as “Douglas Edwards with the News,” Edward R. Murrow’s “See It Now,” and “What’s My Line?” CBS moved to its new headquarters in 1966 and the Grand Central Terminal’s studios were converted into the Vanderbilt Tennis Club. This area is now occupied by a Conductor Lounge and a smaller sports facility. Facing bankruptcy in 1968, the New York Central Railroad merged with the Pennsylvania Railroad, forming the Penn Central Railroad. In 1975, the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark the following year. Having seen this structure in several movies and documentaries, we were thrilled at having the opportunity to explore it in person. It is huge, somewhat confusing, but a delight to visit.

Grand Central Terminal as viewed from 42nd Street (that is the MetLife Insurance building in the background).

At 13 feet in diameter, this facade clock facing 42nd street has the largest example of Tiffany glass in the world.

A promotional photo showing part of clock’s mechanism and looking through the backside of the Tiffany glass.

From one of the two staircases at either end, we got this magnificent view of the main concourse. The ramps leading to the various platforms and tracks all radiate from this area.

Synced to the atomic clock at the U.S. Naval Observatory, the four faces of the clock above the information booth in the main concourse are made from very valuable opal and is estimated to be worth $20 million. Many folks trying to get together here often say “Meet me at the clock,” meaning this one (and not the Tiffany clock out on 42nd Street).

Old photo of the original train shed in the Grand Central Depot.

Vanderbilt Hall was the original waiting room for the terminal. Nowadays, it is only used for special events.

During the Cold War, right after the Soviet Union had launched Sputnik, NASA placed a Restone rocket in the Terminal “...trying to raise awareness and support for America’s space program.”

In another promotional effort to raise awareness of Grand Central Terminal’s services, postcards, such as this one depicting a 1912 entrance ramp to one of the subway platforms, were issued

While you can still buy a ticket at a booth, many of the original booths have been closed in favor of vending machines (personally, I prefer to deal with a live person rather than an impersonal vending machine).

We’ve been hanging around North America a bit longer than usual because our granddaughter, Lucy, was going to sing in Carnegie Hall with the Columbus, Ohio Children’s Choir ( known as the New World Singers). At the completion of our visit to Philadelphia, we traveled to New York by bus for a whopping twelve dollars for the two of us (“What a deal!”).

Covering 302.6 square miles, New York’s five boroughs make it the largest metropolitan area in the world by urban land mass, as well as the most populous city in America.

Prior to the arrival of the Europeans, this area was inhabited by the Algonquin Native Americans, including the Lenape. The first documentation of a visit by a European was in 1524 by Giovanni da Verrazano. By 1609, English explorer Henry Hudson traveled 150 miles up the Hudson River while searching for the Northwest passage to the Orient. Hudson claimed the area for the Dutch East India Company. Five years later, the Netherlands had claimed the whole area from Cape Cod to the Delaware Bay (naming it “New Netherlands”). It would be another ten years before the first permanent settlement was established (“New Amsterdam”). In 1626, Dutch Colonial Director-General Peter Minuit purchased the island of Manhattan from the Lenape for 60 Guilders - about $1000 (and not the legendary $24 worth of glass beads). To promote the growth of the new settlement, any Dutchman who brought at least 50 colonists to the area would receive a parcel of land. In 1647, Peter Stuyvesant became the last Director-General of New Netherlands and oversaw a four-fold growth in population. Stuyvesant surrendered the area, in 1664, to the English, who renamed it “New York” after the Duke of York (who later became King James II). During the Yellow Fever epidemics of the early 1700’s, New York lost about 10% of its population. By 1730, the city had grown into an important trade center, including slaves (one report said 42% of all New York households had slaves). During the lead up to the American Revolution, a group known as the “Sons of Liberty” skirmished with British troops garrisoned in New York (between 1765 and 1775). The Battle of Long Island in August of 1776 was the largest of the American Revolutionary War. The Americans lost and the British made New York their military and political base of operations in North America. When the war ended in 1783, the British evacuated from the city. Following this, the Congress of Confederation made New York the temporary capital of the United States (the last Capital under the Articles of Confederation and the first capital under the newly developed Constitution of the United States). Throughout the 19th century, the city blossomed as a trade center. With the completion of the Erie Canal in 1883, this Port on the Atlantic Ocean was connected to the agricultural markets of interior North America. The consolidation of the five boroughs in 1898 created the modern city of New York. Throughout the first half of the 20th century, New York became a world center for industry, commerce, and communication, establishing it as the most populous urbanized area in the world.

For many immigrants coming to America, this is their first image of their new country.

A wonderful view of the city skyline from “Liberty Island.”

Sketch of Peter Minuit buying Manhattan Island for 60 Gilders (about $1000 and not the often reported $24 of glass beads).

Probably one of the most recognizable parts of the city is Times Square.

Even seen from the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building stands out.

Another icon of the city is the Flat-Iron building.

Brooklyn’s oldest neighborhoods sport the famous row houses, many of which were built between 1800 and 1925.

No visit to New York City would be complete without a stop in Central Park.

This famous picture entitled “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper” (depicting Irish Immigrants working on the 69th floor of Rockefeller Center) has a special relationship with us; the men on each end of this grouping are Lorraine’s great uncles (confirmed by a Public Broadcasting System documentary...

...and a National Georgraphic magazine article.

During the previous dozen-and-a-half postings , we’ve discussed some of the major highlights of our visit to Philadelphia. This city is a history buff’s dream, especially regarding America’s evolution into independence. There are a ton of things to see/do here and we’ve covered only some of the major attractions. In order to do a really adequate job of presenting Philadelphia to our followers, we would need a whole blog-website just devoted to this city. Since that is not going to happen, permit us to present a quick encapsulation of some of the other things we saw here. We hope you enjoy this!

Sculptor Robert Indiana first placed his “Love” piece (created in 1965) in John F. Kennedy Plaza (opposite City Hall) in 1976. This wonderful photo spot became so popular that folks began calling it “Love Park.”

William Penn overlooks Philadelphia from on top of City Hall.

During Pope Francis’ 2015 visit to the city, Philadelphia’s Museum of Art and the Association of Public Art installed Robert Indiana’s “AMOR” sculpture atop the Museum’s steps overlooking the location of the Papal Mass. Afterwards, it was moved to its present location in Sister Cities Park, opposite the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul.

Independence National Historic Park is devoted to America’s moves towards its break from England. One of the central figures in that process was George Washington, Commander-in-Chief of the Colonial Army and the first U.S. President. This statue of Washington sits outside of Independence Hall.

Artist rendition of a typical workman’s house during the late 1700’s.

Near Boathouse Row, Randolph Roger’s 1871 Abraham Lincoln’s Memorial statue...

...was visited by a Civil War reenactor and a Naval veteran while we were there.

Street art is everywhere and comes in many forms.

An interesting exhibit at the Acadamy of Natural Science Museum is the butterfly room.

As part of the Independence National Historic Park, the Constitution Center focuses on the development and evolution of the U.S. Constitution. It has a couple of very interesting live performances.

Sitting on the eastern side of Logan Square (opposite the Franklin Institute) is the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul (the head church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Philadelphia). Built between 1846 and 1864, it is the largest Catholic Church in Pennsylvania. Tradition states that it took so long to build because the Bishop at the time did not want it to run into debt. Because it’s completion was only two years after the anti-Catholicism riots in Philadelphia, the Cathedral was constructed with high “clerestory” (above eye level) windows so as to inhibit vandalism (some documents of the time reported that the architects stood outside the buildings and threw rocks at the side to determine how high up the widows should be).

The first Catholic Church built in Philadelphia was St. Joseph’s in 1733. As the congregation grew, a new, larger church, St. Mary’s, was built in 1763. By 1810, this became Philadelphia’s first Cathedral. Twenty-eight years later, even this was replaced by a newer Cathedral, known as St.John’s. In June of 1846, plans for a newer and grander Cathedral, modeled after the Lombard Church of St. Charles (San Carlo al Corso) in Rome were developed.

Saints Peter’s and Paul’s Cathedral has been the site of two recent Papal masses; (1) with Pope John Paul II in 1979, and (2) with Pope Francis in 2015. Most of the Bishops and Archbishops of Philadelphia have their final resting places in the crypt below the main Altar and these are viewable by the public. The Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. We’ve had the opportunity to visit various denominational religious structures during our travels, with each one being as beautiful as the others, and this one certainly ranks well amongst them all.

Viewed from the Franklin Institute, the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul sits on the eastern side of Philadelphia’s Logan Square.

A closer look at the beautiful sculpturing of Pennsylvania’s largest Catholic Church.

The Cathedral’s design was modeled after that of the Lombard Church of St. Charles in Rome.

Its “Italian Renaissance” style is reflected by the canopy over the main altar (as well as over three of its eight side altars).

What a magnificent dome!

An 1864 sketch of the Cathedral during a service.

While the stained glass windows are outstanding...

...the artwork is at its own level of brilliance.

Absolutely stunning!

Not the most elaborately decorated pulpit we’ve encountered in our travels, but still quite elegant.

Founded in 1824 by Samuel Vaughn Merrick and William H. Keating, the Franklin Institute (named in honor of Benjamin Franklin) was created for “...the promotion of Mechanic Arts.” It began with an investigation into steam engines and water power, but quickly evolved into one of America’s most celebrated museums, as well as a leader in science/technology education and research. Originally located on South 7th Street (now the Atwater Kent Museum), the Institute building eventually became too small and moved to its present location on Benjamin Franklin Parkway. From the beginning, the design plans called for the Institute to be a completely square building surrounding a memorial statue of Benjamin Franklin. Only two of the four planned wings were ever built. From September 2, to October 11, 1884, the Institute hosted the “International Electrical Exhibition of 1884” - the first great electrical exhibition in America. In the late 20th century, the Institute began educating the public through its many programs. As we passed by the Institute every day on our way into downtown Philadelphia, we immediately recognized its most notable feature, the Science Museum. We just had to stop in for a visit.

Philadelphia’s Franklin Institute is America’s leading science and technology museum, as well as a center for education and research.

Outside the main entrance, the Budd BB1 Pioneer ( a 1930 ‘s experimental flying boat) is the feature that helped us to recognize the building as the Franklin Institute.

The original Franklin Institute building on South 7th Street (now the Atwater Kent museum) eventually became too small to house all of the collections of the museum.

A memorial to the Institute’s namesake, Benjamin Franklin, sits just inside the entrance under a massive dome.

It is a wonderful tribute to one of America’s greatest scientists, inventors, and politicians.

One of the Institute’s first investigations was an exploration into the workings of the steam engine.

Created in1953 as a “ six month temporary exhibit”, the Great Heart became so popular, it was turned into a permanent attraction.

Among children, and those of us young at heart, the “Neural Climber” (part of the “Your Brain” exhibit) is a fascinating exploration of the interconnected pathways of the brain.

There is just so much to see here...

...you could spend days just exploring this one attraction..

...which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

While spending a warm and sunny day exploring our surrounding neighborhood, we quite unexpectedly happened upon one of Philadelphia’s more unique tourist attractions. Along the east bank of the Schuylkill River (just north of the Philadelphia Museum of Art) are 15 boathouses that play host to private social and rowing clubs, including storage spaces for their racing shells. All are at least 100 years old, with some being 150 years old, and each has its own history. Houses numbering #2 through #14, comprise a group that is known as the “Schuylkill Navy” (more about this later), while #1(Lloyd Hall) is the only public facility on the Row, and #15 (the Sedgeley Club operates the Turtle Rock Lighthouse (built in 1887 to facilitate traffic along the river).

The history of the Row dates back to the construction of the Philadelphia Water Works (1815) and the Fairmount Dam (1821). The dam was constructed to keep the brackish tidal waters from entering the city’s water supply. One of the benefits was that the dam made the water in this section of the river so calm it was perfect for rowing (and ice skating in the winter). However, the major drawback of such calm waters was the creation of a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. This one issue eventually led to the wealthy being driven from their riverside residences. The city of Philadelphia bought the abandoned estates, with plans to demolish them. When rowing became a popular sport, established private clubs bought the houses and rebuilt, or renovated, them for their boathouses. The clubs also began to regulate the sport against “...unscrupulous practices and fixed races.” In 1835, thirteen of the social rowing clubs formed an informal group known as the “Schuylkill Navy” to further promote the sport of rowing. This simple act ostensibly turned a professional sport into a major amateur one. This was the same year that the clubs held their first formal regatta.

Today, Boathouse Row hosts several racing regattas during the year and is seen as the center of rowing around the country. In 1987, Boathouse Row was designated as a National Historic Landmark and placed on the National Register of Historic places.

This is one of the reasons we love about the way we travel; finding these unexpected gems and learning their history.

Part of Boathouse Row taken from across the river (that is one of those tethered hot air balloon rides just over the tree line).

And up it goes (at least for a little bit)!

Nicholas Santoleri’s painting of Boathouse Row.

Locals getting some practice in.

In 1835, thirteen of the rowing clubs formed the “Schuylkill Navy” to promote their sport.

The last boathouse in the Row (#15) is the Sedgeley Club which operates and maintains the Turtle Rock Lighthouse in the background...

...and a 1902 photo of the Sedgeley Club from the other side of the river.

All stacked up and ready to go.

These are gorgeous buildings!

To further promote Boathouse Row as a tourist attraction, the clubs outline the buildings with LED lighting for this dazzling nighttime display (Archival photo).

Our knowledge and understanding of the Quakers has been minimal. So,when we came across this building, we thought this would be a good opportunity to learn more.
Quakers, also known as the “Religous Society of Friends,” first appeared in the mid-1700’s as a religous group that expressed views in opposition to those of the established Protestant groups, such as the Church of England. They were pacifists and “...would not take up arms,pay War taxes, or take an Oath of Allegiance.” As a group, Quakers came to America to seek religious freedom. During the American Revolution, a schism developed among the Pennsylvania Quakers. One group of around 50 men and women, including Betsy Ross, rejected pacifism and supported the Revolution. They called themselves “Free” Quakers. After being shunned by the mainstream group, the Free Quakers established their own place of worship in 1781. Two years later, they had constructed the current red brick building, on the corner of 5th and Arch streets, in which to hold their services. The 2.5 story structure served this purpose until 1836. By that time, the differences between the two Quaker groups had decreased and the “Free” Meeting House no longer was used as a place of worship. The building was then used by the Apprentice Library of Philadelphia (the nation’s first free circulating library). Today, the building is operated by “Once Upon A Nation” and is part of the Independence National Historic Park.

Situated at the corner of 5th and Arch Streets, the Free Quaker Meeting House served as a place of worship from 1783 until 1836.

1703 watercolor sketch of the mainstream Quaker Meeting House in Front Street.

Worship services were generally of two kinds; formal, pre-planned presentations based upon bible passages (notice the curved wall in the background to promote better acoustics)...

...and smaller rooms for private and quiet worship.

There is even a sitting room where members could discuss topics of daily interest.

A Yellow fever epidemic in 1793 killed 1/10 of Philadelphia’s population. The Free Quakers formed the “Female Society for the Relief and Employment of the Poor.” The House of Industry branch of the Society spun wool and sewed fabric, such as this quilt which was put together and signed by 76 of the Society’s members, to help those impacted by the epidemic.

Even the grounds around the building are plain and simple. To us, there is elegance in this type of simplicity.

Thirteen years after the city of Philadelphia was founded (i.e. 1695), local members of the Church of England established Christ Church. It’s congregation would eventually include many famous American Revolutionary War participants, such as George Washington and fifteen signers of the Declaration of Independence. By 1696, they had constructed a small wooden church. Twenty years later, the congregation had outgrown this edifice, so they made plans to build “...the most sumptuous (new church) in the colonies.” Construction began in 1727 and concluded by 1744 - with the steeple being added by 1754. From 1754 until 1810, the church’s 196 foot tall tower and steeple was considered the tallest structure in North America. This building is now regarded as one of the nation’s most beautiful surviving 18th century structures. While some might say that this church lacks the luster of some of the more elegantly decorated churchs we’ve visited, to us, the simplicity of the interior was awesome!

In the early days of the Church, it’s members were buried in the churchyard, as was the Christian European custom. Once this location was filled, the congregation, in 1719, purchased two acres at the corner of 5th and Arch streets (now opposite the Philadelphia Mint which we will explore in another posting). This became one of America’s most unique Colonial and Revolutionary War graveyards. Over 4000 members of the congregation have this as their final resting place, including such notables as Benjamin Franklin and his wife Deborah, Commodore William Bainbridge (Captain of the U.S.S. Constitution - “Old Ironsides”), and Michael Hillegas, the first U.S. Treasurer. With over 100,000 visitors per year, this is one of Philadelphia’s top tourist attractions. With all of the history contained within, we found it hard to resist exploring this archive of America’s past.

Constructed between 1727 and 1744, Christ Church is considered to be one of the most beautiful surviving 18th century structures in the United States.

We loved the decorative simplicity of the interior! It reminded us the Old North Church in Boston.

During the early years, many of the congregation were famous participants of the American Revolution and had their own family pews...

...including this one belonging to George Washington.

Old painting depicting George Washington outside of Christ Church on Easter Sunday, 1795.

Just a couple of blocks away is the two acre Christ Church Burial Grounds...

...which includes the final resting places of many notables from the American Revolutionary War years...

...such as Benjamin Rush, M.D., signer of the Declaration of Independence...

...and of Benjamin Franklin and his wife Deborah. The placing of pennies on his grave is a Philadelphia tradition honoring his famous words “A penny saved is a penny earned,”

Originally opened in 1893 as one of the first indoor markets in Philadelphia, the Reading Terminal Market was located under the elevated train shed of the Reading Railroad (which owned and operated the market until 1976). Open air markets had been plentiful in town since the founding of Philadelphia. The city’s growth demanded more and more markets, resulting in a string of them from the Delaware River for six blocks. This prompted the renaming of the main street to “Market Street” in 1858. Soon, the open-air concept was viewed as dirty and unhealthy. In 1859, the city dismantled all of them, while creating two “indoor” markets; the Franklin Market and the Farmers’ Market. Later, these would become the foundation for Reading Terminal Market. By 1891, Reading Railroad Terminal was designed and opened two years later. That same year, a state-of-the-art refrigeration storage area was built in the basement of the terminal, allowing for seasonal products to be stocked all year. During those early years, there were over 380 merchants selling their wares here. The Great Depression of the 1930’s saw a decline in the market, but it still survived. With suburbanization and the decline of the railroads during the 1950’s and 1960’s, the market suffered again. Reading Railroad Company finally filed for bankruptcy in 1971 and ended business in 1976. Ownership of the market changed to the Pennsylvania Convention Center in 1990. The ground floor market space now boasts over 100 merchants selling fresh produce, meats, fish, cheese, groceries, ice cream, etc. with two of these current vendors as descendants of the original ones. Today, the Reading Terminal Market is listed as a tourist attraction and has been featured in a number of motion pictures, e.g. “Trading Places” and “National Treasure.”

Opened in 1893 under the Reading Railroad’s elevated train shed, the Reading Terminal Market began life as the “Franklin Market” and the “Farmers’ Market”. The city of Philadelphia had created these first indoor markets after dismantling a city block area of “open air markets” because of complaints that they were dirty and unhealthy.

Off the main entrance of the market is this mural of the Reading Railroad Company’s terminal (showing the old locomotive with the new) located above the market area.

1859 photograph of the Market Street “shambles” (overhanging timber-framed buildings) before the city dismantled them in favor of an indoor arena.

Archival photo of the Reading Terminal Market at the turn of the century.

Over 100 vendors now offer fresh produce...

...pastries...

...and other sundries.

While shopping, you can pick up breakfast or lunch. A number of the restaurant vendors are Amish (Pennsylvania Dutch/Germans of Swiss German Anabaptist origins) and we happened to find a particularly wonderful lunch counter where we have a delicious Amish style lunch

Reading Terminal Market’s official mascot is “Philbert the Pig.”

Elizabeth Griscom “Betsy” Ross (1752 - 1836) is the acknowledged creator of the first American flag. One of Philadelphia’s most visited sites is her home on Arch street where she “reportedly” lived from 1776 until 1789. “Reportedly” because her residence in this particular building was by oral tradition from her two grandsons, William and George Canby. The best archival evidence indicates that she “might” have actually lived next door. As the eighth of seventeen siblings (of which only nine survived childhood), Betsy grew up in a Quaker household in which plain dress and strict discipline ruled her life. She learned to sew from her great aunt, Sarah Elizabeth Ann Griscom. Soon afterwards, her father apprenticed Betsy to upholsterer William Webster, where she met her future husband, John Ross. They eloped and got married in 1773. Because John was Episcopal, this created a lot of conflict within the Griscom family, resulting in Betsy’s expulsion from the Quaker congregation. Betsy and John soon afterwards began their own upholstery business and joined Christ Church. Following the death of her husband, Betsy continued to run the shop, repairing uniforms, making tents and blankets, as well as stuffed paper cartridges for American muskets. In June of 1777, she married her second husband, seaman Joseph Ashburn. He was later captured by the British Navy and died in jail. Betsy married her third husband, John Claypoole in 1783 and continued to run the shop for another ten years. At the time of her death in 1836 (at the age of 84), Betsy was totally blind.

The front part of Betsy’s house was constructed in 1740, with the stair hall and rear section added about ten years (or more) later. The main story about Betsy Ross states that, in 1776, Commander-In-Chief of the Continental Army, General George Washington asked her to make the first American Flag. Betsy convinced him to change the shape of the stars he had sketched from six points to five points, as it would be faster to cut and easier to make. While she also made flags for the Pennsylvania Navy during the American Revolutionary War, Betsy’s main occupation remained upholstery. In 1937, local radio personality, A. Atwater Kent purchased the property and began restoration efforts. Kent donated the property to the city in 1941 and its is currently managed by Historic Philadelphia, Inc. During January of 1952, the United States Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp on the 200th anniversary of Betsy’s birth.

The house on Arch Street, Philadelphia where Betsy Ross “reportedly” lived and worked.

A archival photo of how the building looked in 1909.

Actor explaining the workings of Betsy Ross’s upholstery shop.

Revolutionary War sketch of Betsy Ross.

While she is best known for her creation of the first American flag, her main business was upholstering.

On the lower level of the building was the very small kitchen.

The story told to us is that Betsy made the American Flag in the privacy of her bedroom rather, than in her shop downstairs, In case any patrons loyal to Britain came in to commission her services.

Jean Leon Gerome Ferris’s painting (ca. 1920) of Beaty presenting the completed flag to George Washington.

While now used as a resting area and a place to enjoy snacks, the courtyard next to the house served as a garden, in addition to containing a well for water...

...and it is along one edge of the courtyard that she is now buried.

The 1952 U.S. Postal Service stamp commemorating the 200th anniversary of her birth.

Situated next to the Rodin Museum in Philadelphia, the Barnes Foundation is home to one of the world’s greatest collections of Impressionistic, Post-Impressionistic and Modernistic paintings. Founded in 1922 by American chemist, Albert C. Barnes (who had made his fortune in the development of a compound to treat inflammations of the eyes, ears, nose and throat - and other issues), its primary mission was “...promoting appreciation of art and horticulture.” Barnes began his collection of art in 1902 but did not get really serious about it until ten years later. He purchased property in Marion, Pennsylvania (which had already contained an arboretum since 1880) and began constructing a complex for his museum. By December of 1922, Barnes had received a charter from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the establishment of the Barnes Foundation as an educational institution. Barnes had also constructed his personal residence next door by the time of the official opening of the complex in 1925. The idea of the foundation as a school rather than just a typical museum developed out of his relationship with American Psychologist and Philosopher John Dewey, whom he had met at Columbia University. Barnes, a savvy businessman, was able to sell off his chemical company just months prior to the 1929 stock market crash. The Barnes Foundation collections now contain over 4000 objects, including more than 900 paintings (of which 181 are by Pierre Auguste Renoir) and is estimated to be worth over $25 billion. Barnes designed his collection to be displayed as “wall ensembles,” i.e. paintings alongside hand wrought-iron, antique furniture, jewelry, and sculptures. In 2012, facing financial problems, the administrators of the foundation sought to break the Barnes Trust by moving the collections to Philadelphia so that more of the public could view it. Following lengthy court battles, it was finally able to move to its current location along Benjamin Franklin Parkway, while the 12 acre arboretum remained on the original Marion property.

Sitting next to the Rodin Museum on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia’s Barnes Foundation is home to one of the greatest collections of Impressionistic, Post-Impressionistic, and Modernistic art in the world.

Its creator was American chemist, Albert C. Barnes.

Its original location was on property in Merion, Pennsylvania (shown in this archival photo).

Pierre Auguste Renoir’s 1883 portrait “Jeune garçon sur la plage d’yport” is one of the 181 paintings by this master in the Foundation’s collection.

Another of Renoir’s paintings in the collection is this one entitled “Noirmoutier” (1892).

While the largest number of paintings in the collection are by Renoir, other masters are also included, such as Claude Monet’s 1875 “Camille au Metier” seen here...

...Paul Cezanne’s “Portrait of Madame Cezanne” (1885-1887)...

...Vincent Van Gogh’s “The Smoker” (1888).

...as well as Picasso’s “Acrobat and Young Harlequin” (1905).

Barnes created the display design known as “wall ensembles” in which paintings are hung alongside hand wrought-iron pieces, jewelry, etc.

Wealthy and influential movie-theater businessman, Jules Mastbaum, began collecting Auguste Rodin’s works in 1913. His original intention had always been to create a Museum for the city. Within three years, he had amassed the largest collection of the master sculpturer’s works outside of Paris. By 1926, Mastbaum had commissioned the design of a building and gardens to house his collection. Unfortunately, he died before construction was completed. His widow, Etta Wedell Mastbaum, took over and and saw the completion of his dream, opening the museum in 1929. Many of Rodin’s sculptures are displayed outside in the elegant formal gardens or near the reflecting pool. We had the pleasure of visiting the Rodin museum in Paris during our travels there in 2016, and now this one in Philadelphia. What a joy to have experienced both!

Located not far from Philadelphia’s Museum of Art (which also manages this one), The Rodin Museum is one of the top attractions in the city. We could see why, as it is every bit as impressive as it’s namesake in Paris.

Known as the Meudon Gate, this is the main entrance to the grounds and the museum...

...with Rodin’s “The Thinker” poised in front to greet visitors.

Once through the gate, visitors are met with this beautiful image of the museum itself behind the reflecting pool.

The main gallery just inside the building’s entrance.

Rodin’s “Shame”, first modeled in clay between 1889-1890, and then cast in bronze in 1925.

Henri Greber’s 1929 marble copy of Rodin’s “The KISS.”

First modeled in clay during 1910, “The Secret” was bronzed in 1925.

Originally designed for the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris (which, unfortunately was never established), Rodin’s “The Gates of Hell” encompasses more than 100 individual sculptures. Rodin worked on this piece ( which is one of three originals created by him) between 1890 and 1917.

Also located out in the gardens is “The Burghers of Calais.”

John Singer Sargent’s 1884 portrait of Auguste Rodin.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art was originally chartered in 1876 for the Centennial Exposition celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Memorial Hall, which housed the art gallery, was always intended to outlast the Exposition as a permanent museum. From the beginning, it’s focus was on applied art and science, as well as the development of a school for drawing, painting, modeling, and design. As part of that plan, the Pennsylvania Museum and School of Industrial Art (the precursor to today’s museum) opened in May of 1877 with collections donated by the public. However, it’s “Center City” Location was not the favorite of many of its fans (they felt it was too distant). American writer and philanthropist, Sara Jessup Moore, donated a sizable collection of antique furniture, jewelry, enamels, etc. in 1882. A city funded competition for the design of a new building for the museum was held in 1895. However, not much was done with the submissions until 1907. Construction finally got underway in 1919, but due to delays caused by World War I, was not completed until 1928. Early in the 1900’s, the museum began an educational program for the general public (fulfilling one of its original goals).

Because of the popularity of its role in the “Rocky” films (beginning in 1976), the museum took on a new image; Pop Culture icon. Running up the East entrance steps, like the film’s main character, Rocky Balboa, has become a regular tourist pastime. An 8.5 foot tall bronze statue of the film’s fighter(created in 1980) was donated to the museum by Sylvester Stallone and is now on display at the bottom of the “Rocky Steps.” This is one of the most photographed statues in the city.

Philadelphia’s Museum of Art’s East entrance and plaza...

...faces the city skyline. Off in the distance is City Hall with William Penn’s statue on top.

Here is a closer view of City Hall looking across the Oval, past the Washington Monument Fountain.

Americsn Philanthropist and writer, Sara Jessup Moore, donated a large collection of Antique furniture and other items to the museum in 1882.

Charles Ephraim Burchfield’s “Stormy November Day.”

One of our all-time favorite paintings, “The Japanese Footbridge and the Water Lilly Pool, Giverny” done by Claude Monet in 1899.

There is so much more than paintings to see here, such as this room from the Ezekiel Hersey Derby House (ca. 1800) in Salem. Massachusetts...

...and this home altar from Tibet (late 1800’s)...

...as well as this fountain from the Abbey of Saint-Michel-de-Cuxa in France (ca. 1125).

There is much more to experience here than we could possibly blog about. This is a fun place to visit.

Don’t forget to stop by the “Rocky Balboa” statue and have your picture taken with it.

Situated on the corner of Chestnut and 5th Streets in Philadelphia, Old City Hall was built between 1790 and 1791 and was intended to serve as the seat of the municipal government. The mayor’s office and council chambers were on the second floor, while the Mayor’s Court occupied the ground floor. This was actually the city’s second city hall. The first was located near the Delaware River on 2nd Street and contained the city jail on the ground floor. As soon as the Independence Hall complex was constructed along Chestnut Street, the city’s municipal government moved there. During the 1790’s, Philadelphia served as the new nation’s temporary capital while the District of Columbia was being constructed. So in August of 1791, the Supreme Court of the United State began to hold its sessions on the first floor of the Old City Hall building, sharing space with the Mayor’s Court. Initially, the Supreme Court (“SCOTUS”) was comprised of a Chief Justice and five associate justices. They enjoyed neither the same prestige nor power back then that they do today. Serving on SCOTUS was strenuous and dangerous because of the “1789 Judiciary Act” which divided the thirteen states into three “circuits”. This required the justices to travel around the country attending to the circuit courts ( two justices for each circuit). Along the way, they encountered “...flea-ridden, out-of-the-way inns, dirt roads, shaky coaches, and often had to ford rivers...”. As a result, SCOTUS was plagued with resignations (during its first 12 years, it took 12 men to fill the six Justice places). The Supreme Court was supposed to meet in Philadelphia twice per year, but because of the travel hazards and resultant sicknesses, they often could not muster the required four Justices minimum to hold a session. During its tenure in Old City Hall (1791 until 1800), three prominent Chief Justices served on SCOTUS; John Jay, John Rutledge, and Oliver Ellsworth.

During much of the 18th century, thousands of immigrants passed through Philadelphia. As a result, many Naturalization Ceremonies took place in the Old City Hall courtroom. After the Supreme Court left for Washington, D.C., the building continued as the city hall until 1854 (when the new city hall was constructed). Today, the city of Philadelphia maintains ownership of the Old City Hall building while leasing the property to the National Park Service as part of the Independence National Historic Park.

Old City Hall sits on the corner of Philadelphia’s Chestnut and 5th Streets, to the left of Independence Hall. It served as the seat of the city’s municipal government (sharing its space with the Supreme Court of the U.S. for ten years) until 1854.

Commemorative Placque attached to the building next to the main entrance.

While originally meant to serve as the city’s Mayor’s Court...

...the ground floor courtroom also was used by the Supreme Court of the United States between 1791 and 1800.

When it functioned as the Mayor’s Court, the the jury sat in the box to the left, while the accused was in the box at the center of the floor. The table in front of the Judges bench was where all of the lawyers sat.

On the other side of the room was the clerk’s desk.

Old postcard showing the building next to Indelendence Hall.

As with any historic building that has been turned into a museum, there is a requisite souvenir shop.

Built between 1770 and 1774, Philadelphia’s Carpenter Hall once served as the temporary home for the First Continental Congress (September 5 to October 26, 1774). It was built , and is still owned by, the “Carpenters Company of the City and County of Philadelphia,” America’s oldest surviving craft guild. (Membership in the Company is by nomination from existing members and has consistently had nearly 900 on its roles in its three hundred year history). Although the Carpenter’s Company was officially founded in 1774, its roots date back to the founding of the city itself in 1682. At that time, many of its members were Quakers “... whose beliefs influenced the Company’s mission to promote fair business dealings...”. During those early days, the Company had no place of their own in which to meet, instead renting taverns etc. for their gatherings. Finally, by 1768, realizing they needed more suitable quarters, they purchased the current site on Chestnut Street and began construction two years later. The layout of the building is based on the town halls of Scotland, as well as the designs of Andrea Pallodino (considered one of the most influential Italian architects in history). The building, which was still under construction, was first used as a meeting place in January of 1771. Meetings continued to be held here until the British captured Philadelphia in 1777. It was while meeting in this Hall that Congress resolved to ban further imports of slaves and to begin to discontinue the slave trade in the colonies. During the American Revolutionary War, Carpenter Hall served as a hospital for both British and American troops. Between 1802 and 1819, Philadelphia’s Federal Custom House was located in this building. Carpenter Hall was designated a National Historic Landmark in April of 1970 and is part of the Independence National Historic Park.

Carpenter Hall, built between 1770 and 1774, was where the First Continental Congress met in order to decide how to air their grievances against Great Britain. The building was then, and still is, owned by the Carpenters Company of the City and County of Philadelphia (the oldest extant craft guild in America).

In the days of its founding,”Company” was the term used for an association (or guild). The founders were Master Builders, skilled not only in carpentry, but also engineering and architecture. As such, they controlled the quality and cost of construction in the city and supported the needs of their members and their families.

Model of the building under construction in 1770.

Some of the tools of their craft.

Members of the Carpenter’s Company built many of Philadelphia’s houses, such as the home of Master Builder Thomas Nevell (who taught classes on architecture here at night).

An artist’s depiction of Patrick Henry (of Virginia on the left) talking with John Adams (right)and Sam Adams (middle), both from Massachusetts, outside Carpenter Hall.

Carpenter Company banner which was carried during a parade marking the Centennial of Washington’s birth.

Benjamin Franklin -one of the founding fathers of America - was born in Boston on June 17, 1706 as the 8th of 17 siblings. Unhappy that his family had thoughts of him becoming a minister, Franklin ran away to Philadelphia at the age of 17. Having apprenticed as a printer with his older brother James, Franklin, by the age of 23, became a successful printer and newspaper man in his own right, publishing the “Pennsylvania Gazette.” As his reputation grew, Ben became (in 1751) the first president of the Academy and College of Philadelphia (which later became the University of Pennsylvania). He organized and became the first secretary of the American Philosophical Society, and by 1769, its president. In 1775, the Continental Congress had appointed Franklin as the first Postmaster General. Fifteen months later, in October of 1776, he was named the first U.S. Ambassadors to France. Upon his return to America, Franklin served as Governor of Pennsylvania (1785 to 1788). Two years after his term ended, Franklin died.

FRANKLIN Court - Situated between Market and Chestnut streets, Franklin Court is a complex of houses, print shop, post office and museum. Franklin lived here between 1763 and 1790 ( although much of the time he was away on business). His house sat within a large courtyard in the middle of the block, accessed by an alley from Market street. He soon began purchasing additional neighboring properties for the purpose of renting them out. By 1787, he had constructed his own print shop in front of his house. Unfortunately, the house and print shop were demolished during redevelopment efforts in 1812. During the 1950’s, the National Park Service began purchasing and reassembling the lots following extensive archeological excavations. Today, in addition to “ghost” replicas of the house and printshop, the courtyard includes a working historic post office, a working replica of Franklin’s print shop, and the Benjamin Franklin Museum (beneath much of the surface of the courtyard). This is a “Must See” in any visit to Philadelphia.

Benjamin Franklin, author, printer, politician, Free Mason, scientist/inventor, and diplomat.

Franklin Court looking through the alley to Market Street. Franklin had purchased much of this area for rental properties.

The alley through which Franklin passed every day going to and from his house.

”Ghost” replica of Ben’s house where it stood in Franklin Court...

...and if the print shop in front of the house. Both original structures were demolished in 1812 redevelopment efforts.

The National Park Service has reproduced a working print shop, from the Franklin era, on one side of the courtyard. The press is set to make copies of the Declaration of Independence.

While the entrance to the Franklin museum is next to where his house stood...

...most of the exhibits depicting his life are below the surface of the court.

Franklin died in 1790 and is buried (the grave next to the fence) in Christ Church cemetery opposite the Philadelphia Mint...

...along with his wife

A closer view of the engravings.

Originally built (1787 to 1789) to serve as the Philadelphia County Courthouse, “Congress Hall” became the seat of the U.S. government between December of 1790 and May of 1800. Congress had been meeting in Philadelphia since 1775 (at Independence Hall next door) but moved to Princeton, N.J. in 1783 following the Pennsylvania Mutiny ( a protest by nearly 400 soldiers of the Continental Army over not having been paid during the American Revolutionary War). It then relocated several more times; to Annapolis, Md, Trenton N.J., and finally (in 1785) to New York City. In July of 1790, Congress had passed the “Residence Act” establishing the District of Columbia (between Maryland and Virginia) as the new federal capital. A senator from Pennsylvania convinced Congress to set the temporary capital in Philadelphia while the permanent capital was being constructed. In anticipation of this relocation to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania authorities expanded the county courthouse to be the new home of Congress. The first level was to serve as the House of Representatives’ chamber, while the second floor was reserved for the U.S. Senate chamber. Over time, this building became known as “Congress Hall.” Sitting next to Independence Hall, it makes up part of the Independence National Historic Park.

Sitting on the corner of Chestnut and 6th streets, the original Philadelphia County Courthouse became the temporary capital of the U.S. for ten years. As such, it became known as “Congress Hall.”

With Independence Hall nearby, Congress Hall is part of the Independence National Historic Park.

Archival painting of historic park complex...

...and the same scene in a 1937 photo.

Taken from the public gallery, this is the House of Representatives chamber on the ground floor.

In the hallway outside the House Chamber are the stairs to the second floor...

...where the Senate chamber is.

Commissioned by the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly in 1752, the Liberty Bell has become THE iconic symbol of American Independence. When it first arrived in Philadelphia from London, it was originally hung from a tree behind Independence Hall (later on, it made its way to the lower chamber of the original wooden Bell Tower). It first experienced a crack when it was rung right after arrival in Philadelphia and was twice recast by local workmen, John Pass and John Stow. During its early years, the Bell was used to summon lawmakers to legislative sessions, as well as to alert citizens to public meetings and proclamations. Once American Independence had been secured, the Bell fell into obscurity until the 1830’s when it was adopted as a symbol by abolitionists societies, and thus nicknamed “The Liberty Bell.” It acquired its distinctive large crack in the early 19th century. The Bell became famous after the appearance in 1847 of a short story claiming that an aged bell ringer rang it on July 4, 1776 upon hearing of the Declaration of Independence. The Bell actually never rang that day, but the story was accepted as fact. By 1885, it went on tour to various expositions and political gatherings. Its last such journey was in 1915 when organizers realized folks were trying to chip off souvenir pieces. Following World War II, the National Park Service took custody of the Bell, while the city of Philadelphia retained ownership. Today, its sits in an honored place, in its own building opposite Independence Hall, as part of the Independence National Historic Park.

In addition to housing the Liberty Bell, the memorial building hosts the story of the bell.

Two symbols of American Independence side-by-side...

...and two intrepid explorers taking it all in.

Part of the history of the Bell display in the memorial building.

A 1908 photo of the Bell on tour.

No matter how you see the Bell, it is an impressive moment. Happy Fourth of July!🇱🇷

Independence Hall is the centerpiece of Philadelphia’s National Historic Park. The building was constructed in 1753 and was designed to serve as the home for the colonial legislature. Later, it became the Pennsylvania State House (at least until 1799 when it moved to Lancaster). Between 1775 and 1783, this was the principle meeting place for the Second Continental Congress and site of the Constitutional Convention during the summer of 1787. During the Second Continental Congress, George Washington was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army and Benjamin Franklin as the first Postmaster General. America’s Declartion of Independence was approved in this building on July 4, 1776 and read aloud to the public in the area that became known as “Independence Square.” Congress continued to meet in this building until December of 1776 after which they evacuated the city because of pending British occupation. In the interim, congress met in Baltimore, Maryland until their return to Philadelphia in March of 1777. By September of that year, they had to evacuate again because of a second British occupation. They finally returned to Philadelphia in July of 1778. During 1915, I n this building, former U.S. President, William Howard Taft, first announced the creation of the League to Enforce Peace. This organization led to the creation of the League of Nations and, eventually, the United Nations. The Liberty Bell at first hung on a tree behind Independence Hall before making its way to the lower chamber of the original wooden steeple. Today, Independence Hall is featured on the back of the U.S. one hundred dollar bill.

Independence Hall not only serves as the centerpiece of Philadelphia’s Independence National Historic Park, but also as a symbol of America’s creation.

One chamber on the ground floor of the building is where the Continental Congress met...

...while across the hall Philadelphia’s court system held its sessions.

In the Old City Hall building at one end of the complex, the U.S. Supreme Court met from 1791 to 1800.

From December of 1790 until May of 1800, the U.S. Congress met in another building on the complex (now known as Congress Hall). Here, three new states (Vermont, Kentucky, and Tennessee) were admitted to the Union, and the Inaugurations of George Washington (his second) and John Adams were held.

Also located on the property is Philosophical Hall (built between 1786 and 1789), home of the oldest “...learned society” in America, The American Philosophical Society. The society was originally founded in1743 by Benjamin Franklin

While the Liberty Bell is now displayed in its own building, it was originally hung on a tree behind Independence Hall and then later in the lower chamber of the original bell tower.