This building originally served as the capitol of the Province of Pennsylvania (now the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.) It is now part of a larger national park and is visited by millions of people every year who wish to see the birthplace of the United States of America. It was here that the British colonies formally agreed to rebel and start their own nation. The building fell into a state of disrepair after 1799 when the Commonwealth's legislature moved to Lancaster. The young nation was too busy dealing with immediate necessities to worry about preserving its heritage. Eventually it would be turned into an art gallery exhibiting works by Charles Willson Peale. Though it was purchased by the city of Philadelphia in 1816, it wasn't until 1824 that people started recognizing it for its historical significance. Pictures of Revolutionary heroes were placed inside, and an arch erected in front. 1775 - George Washington appointed leader of the Continental army in this building.

• 4 July, 1776 - the American Declaration of Independence adopted in this building by the Continental Congress.
• 1777 - Design of the American flag agreed upon in this building.
• 1781 - Articles of Confederation adopted in this building.
• 1943 - Independence Hall declared a national historic site.
• 1948 - Independence National Historical Park established.

Photo by Bob Krist © 1999 by Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation.