Visiting Independence Hall (Historic Site Visit)

So, this past week I decided to visit Independence Mall (or, Independence National Historical Park according to the Park Service), the location of Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and several other historic sites. The first thing that I visited was the Liberty Bell, which is located in a large building conveniently named the Liberty Bell Center. There are several alcoves featuring displays that show the Liberty as a symbol of freedom through the history of the United States, and the Liberty Bell itself is at the end of the building, just across the street from Independence Hall, as seen here.

                The Liberty Bell was originally the bell in the Pennsylvania State House (which became Independence Hall) and was forged in 1752. The famous crack in the bell was not a result of the bell being rung on July 4th, 1776 however, the bell was actually poorly cast and the first cracks appeared almost as soon as it was delivered to the State House. The current crack was likely caused sometime during the 18th century.

                After visiting the Liberty Bell I visited the burial site of Benjamin Franklin who is buried in the  Christ Church Burial Ground,  only two blocks from Independence Hall. While not as grandiose or famous as Independence Hall or the Liberty Bell, it was fascinating to see the burial site of one of the U.S. founders.

  

              Finally, there was Independence Hall. The only way to view the interior is to join a tour of the building. Following a brief summary of the causes of the Revolution and the Revolution itself up to 1776. Inside Independence Hall, there are two restored rooms on the ground floor, the Pennsylvania State Courtroom, and the Assembly Room where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both signed. Both rooms have been heavily restored, but hold a number of original artifacts. Below are images of Independence Hall, the Courtroom, and the Assembly Room, in that order.

  

             If you're interested in Colonial America or the American Revolution, or just history in general, you should visit Independence National Historical Park. Even if you are already familiar with the subjects there, actually seeing them in person is amazing.