Fragments of Franklin Court archeological exhibit
Stripped to the bare walls, this building allows visitors to examine 18th century building practices. It was once a three story rental property where a prosperous merchant kept shop, and lived with his family.
Images in basement hallway of Second Bank
Public domain image related to 13th-14th-century architecture, medieval castle, cathedral, historic building, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description
Philadelphia Committee Room - National Parks Gallery
This room served the Pennsylvania Assembly as a place for various committees to meet to iron out differences over colonial policy and legislation. Located on the second floor of the State House, the room was al... More
18th Century Garden pergola - Public Domain image, National Parks Gall...
A handsome, vine-covered pergola anchors the garden's landscape.
Summer in the 18th Century Garden
The 18th Century Garden recreates many features that characterized Philadelphia gardens in the 1700's.
18th Century Garden facing south
The species of trees, shrubs, and flowers that the garden exhibits were commonly grown in the city prior to 1800.
18th Century Garden wayside - Public Domain image, National Parks Gall...
The 18th Century Garden's entrance is next to the Todd House on Walnut, between 3rd and 4th Streets.
Fall in the 18th Century Garden
Among the most prominent characteristics of 18th-century gardens were geometric patterns and orderly paths.
Bishop White House dining room - Public Domain image, National Parks G...
The Bishop hosted many dinners for his distinguished guests in this dining room.
Dock Creek walkway - National Parks Gallery
Before Dock Creek became a center for trade and industry in the mid-18th century, Philadelphia's elite built their homes along the creek's edge.
Mask over Assembly Room doorway
While this mask may resemble a Native American figure, it actually is simply part of the design vocabulary of the 18th century. Common motifs such as this mask appeared widely in pattern book publications dist... More
Geometric patterns in 18th Century Garden
The raised flowerbeds and small orchards ensure the garden's year-round vibrance.
Bishop White House parlor - Public Domain image, National Parks Galler...
The Bishop entertained many of his guests in the parlor of his house. Some of his more distinguished guest included Robert Morris, the Marquis de Lafayette, and George Washington.
Independence National Historical Park
A young Junior Ranger fishes for an opportunity to earn park trading cards at the South Camden Family Fishing Day held at the Father Doyle Fishing Pier in New Jersey on June 11, 2016. Families participated in a... More
Syng inkstand - National Parks Gallery
Made by Philip Syng in 1752, this silver inkstand is believed to be the one the Founding Fathers used for the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration of Independence
On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence and ordered it printed. Philadelphia printer John Dunlap printed about 200 copies, but fewer than 30 survive today.
Philadelphia Assembly Room - National Parks Gallery
The Assembly Room of the Pennsylvania State House served as the meeting place of the Pennsylvania Assembly for over sixty years until the State Capital moved away from Philadelphia in 1799. In 1776, the Contine... More
Declaration of Independence Rough Draft
Thomas Jefferson's early draft of the Declaration from June 1776. He drafted the Declaration in little more than two weeks, after which the Committee of Five and the Second Continental Congress made a total of ... More
Pennsylvania Coat of Arms - Public Domain image, National Parks Galler...
A detail of the Pennsylvania Coat of Arms, by George Rutter c. 1785. This painting replaced the coat of arms of King George III after it had been taken down and burned following the first public reading of the ... More
Rising Sun Chair - National Parks Gallery
A detail of the actual chair Washington sat in while presiding over the Constitutional Convention in 1787. At the signing Franklin was optimistic about the document and said that now he had the happiness to kno... More
Congressional Pugilists - National Parks Gallery
On February 15, 1798, Representative Roger Griswold of Connecticut and Representative Matthew Lyon of Vermont exchanged blows on the floor of the House of Representatives in Congress Hall, fighting with a walki... More
United States Senate Chamber in Congress Hall
Room located on the second floor of Congress Hall in Philadelphia, PA, where the United States Senate met from 1790 to 1800.
Congress Hall, House of Representatives
The U.S. House of Representatives sat here from 1790 to 1800. They argued over legislation like the First Bank of the U.S., the Navy Department, the Alien & Sedition Acts, and more. John Adams was sworn in as... More
Independence Historic map, Library of Congress
"*GPO:2002--491-282/40262." Panel title. Includes text, historical notes, and col. ill. in map area. Text, small facs. map of Philadelphia in 1800, and col. ill. on verso. Available also through the Library of ... More
Charles Willson Peale - John Adams
Reflecting on the American Revolution nearly 50 years later, John Adams wrote that "The Revolution was in the minds and hearts of the people… This radical change in the principles, opinions, sentiments, and aff... More
Charles Willson Peale - Thomas Jefferson
Looking back at the Declaration of Independence nearly 50 years later, Jefferson explained that “it was intended to be an expression of the American mind... its authority rests then on the harmonizing sentiment... More
Washington Square fountain - National Parks Gallery
A fountain sits in the middle of this urban park, not far from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution. Originally known as Southeast Square, the square was renamed in 1825 in honor of Georg... More
President's House Site exhibit, night view
The home was demolished in 1832; today, a low brick wall and architectural elements evoke the feeling of a house. The exhibit is outdoors and can be viewed until 10 p.m.
Philadelphia Liberty Bell - National Parks Gallery
Originally cast to be the State House bell, this bell is known today as the Liberty Bell. The Liberty Bell got its name from the anti-slavery movement in 1835.
Bishop White House bedroom - Public Domain image, National Parks Galle...
The Bishop was reading from the book on the lap desk right before he died here in July 1836.
Elizabeth Cady Stanton - National Parks Gallery
Elizabeth Cady Stanton was the principal writer of the 1848 Declaration of Sentiments, which appropriated language of the Declaration of Independence to assert that "all men and women are created equal."
Frederick Douglass - National Parks Gallery
Frederick Douglass addressed an anti-slavery gathering at Independence Square in 1844. His 1852 speech “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” made it clear that the country’s celebrations of independence ha... More
See the 18th century documents on view
The West Wing of Independence Hall contains some of the nation's "Great Essentials" - original printed copies of the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the U.S. Constitution.
Susan B. Anthony - National Parks Gallery
On July 4, 1876, the nation's centennial, Susan B. Anthony interrupted a ceremony on Independence Square to distribute her "Women's Declaration of Rights."
Centennial Bell, Independence National Historical Park, 2015.
Many sites are found within the boundaries of Independence National Historical Park. This 55-acre park spans 20 city blocks within the City of Philadelphia's historic district, preserving and interpreting many ... More
Declaration House, exterior - National Parks Gallery
The Declaration House at 7th and Market Streets is a reconstruction of the house where Thomas Jefferson lived when he drafted the Declaration of Independence. The home was demolished in the 1880s.
Declaration House, exterior - National Parks Gallery
The Declaration House at 7th and Market Streets is a reconstruction of the house where Thomas Jefferson lived when he drafted the Declaration of Independence. The home was demolished in the 1880's.
Independence Hall, Independence National Historical Park, 1896.
Public domain image of a large historic building, city hall, urban architecture, free to use, no copyright restrictions - Picryl description
Free Quaker Meeting House, interior
After the Revolutionary War, differences among the Quakers diminished, and by the mid 1830's services stopped and the building no longer served as a place of worship. Today, the building is open (seasonally) to visitors.
George Washington, north side of Independence Hall
Roman Bronze Works of New York City cast this statue of Washington in 1910 using a mould made from an earlier statue that stood on this spot. The original statue of Washington on the site was created by J.A. Ba... More
Thomas Edison with the Liberty Bell, Independence National Historical ...
Many sites are found within the boundaries of Independence National Historical Park. This 55-acre park spans 20 city blocks within the City of Philadelphia's historic district, preserving and interpreting many ... More
Thomas Edison posing with the Liberty Bell, Independence National Hist...
Public domain photo of a monument, historic place, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description
West Wing - south exterior - Public Domain image, National Parks Galle...
The entrance to the Great Essentials exhibit in the West Wing is through the south door. It is wheelchair accessible.
Declaration and Protest of the Women of the United States
On the date of the nation's centennial, the women’s suffrage movement adapted the Declaration of Independence for their cause.
First Bank from Merchants' Exchange Building
The National Park Service acquired the First Bank in 1955 and used the first floor as a temporary visitor center starting in 1967. Today, the building is closed to public.
Reading at Dock Creek - Public Domain image, National Parks Gallery
Dock Creek stands as one of the most verdant areas in the park, and becomes especially colorful in the spring and fall.
Bishop White house front door - Public Domain image, National Parks Ga...
The elaborate interior decor of this upper class home is masked by a modest exterior that looks similar to the other row houses on the street.
Germantown White House, interior
President Washington, wife Martha, and step grandchildren Nelly and Wash left the summer heat of the city in 1794 for this home in Germantown - what Washington called a "fine airy place."
Rose Garden in fall - Public Domain image, National Parks Gallery
The garden's courtyard and canopy of trees makes it an oasis within the city.
Independence National Historical Park
Lorin Felter at the Science Festival. Public domain photograph of educational activity, National Park rangers, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description
National parks: Newsletter4 - public domain image
Picryl description: Public domain image of a historic building in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, free to use, no copyright restrictions.
Courtroom, Old City Hall - Public Domain image, National Parks Gallery
The Supreme Court, sitting here in the 1790s, struggled to define its role in the new government.
Small fountain in Magnolia Garden
The Garden Club of America donated the Magnolia Tribute Garden in honor of the founders of our nation.
Brackets on staircase of Independence Hall
Much of the architectural fabric of Independence Hall's staircase is original. These scroll and leaf brackets speak the skill of 18th century carver Samuel Harding, and contribute to the elaborate design typic... More
Germantown White House, exterior
During the yellow fever epidemic in 1793, President George Washington and some members of his cabinet met in this rented home in Germantown.
Fragments of Franklin Court exhibit interior
Explore three floors of artifact fragments and building construction in this unique exhibit located in a home built by Benjamin Franklin to be a rental property.
The Signer, Signers Garden, 5th and Chestnut Streets
Inspired by George Clymer, Philadelphia merchant, statesman, and signer of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, “The Signer” commemorates the spirit and deeds of all who devoted their... More
Dock Creek during fall - Public Domain image, National Parks Gallery
The first bridge in the colony of Pennsylvania was a drawbridge built near the mouth of Dock Creek.
New Hall Military Museum exhibits
Learn about the role of the Continental Marines on the first floor of the building. Explore exhibits dedicated to the Continental Army and Navy on the second floor.
Germantown White House, kitchen
During the summer of 1794, President Washington returned to the home, this time with servants and his family. The enslaved servants included Oney Judge, Austin, Moll, and Hercules. Hercules prepared meals for ... More
Independence Hall, north side - Public Domain image, National Parks Ga...
Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were debated and signed.
Fountain in Magnolia Garden - Public Domain image, National Parks Gall...
The 13 hybrid magnolias that line the garden's perimeter represent the 13 original colonies.
Magnolia Garden in bloom - Public Domain image, National Parks Gallery
The garden includes Saucer Magnolias, Narcissus Snow Azaleas, English Oaks, Honey Locusts, Cotoneasters, and a ground cover of English Ivy.
Magnolia Garden wayside - National Parks Gallery
George Washington's expressed interest in magnolia trees inspired the Garden Club of America when creating this garden.
Liberty Bell Center exterior view
The Liberty Bell sits in a glass chamber in the south of the Liberty Bell Center. Visitors enjoy viewing the Liberty Bell through the glass in the evening hours.
HFCA 1607_Mission 66_440.jpg - Public Domain image, National Parks Gal...
Visitors walking outside of Independence Hall at Independence National Historical Park. Image Number 76-433-18.
Fragments of Franklin Court, courtyard entrance
Enter the Fragments of Franklin Court exhibit through the courtyard door. Benjamin Franklin built this home in 1786 as a rental property. Now it features an archeological exhibit containing artifacts found bu... More
New Hall Military Museum, exterior
This building is largely a reconstruction of the building built by members of the Carpenters' Company, and home to the War Department in the 1790s. Today it houses a museum that highlights the history of the C... More
Rose Garden entrance - National Parks Gallery
The Rose Garden is home to roughly 96 varieties of antique roses.
HFCA 1607_People Volume 1_251.jpg
NPS employee talking to visitors in Indepedence hall in Independence National Historical Park.
Benjamin Rush Garden facing east
The Benjamin Rush garden is open from 8:30 a.m. to dusk.
Rose Garden flowers - National Parks Gallery
Entrances to the Rose Garden are located on Locust and Walnut Streets, between 4th and 5th Streets. A permit is required for wedding photography and wedding ceremonies.
William Penn, Welcome Park, 2nd Street between Chestnut and Walnut Str...
This statue of William Penn is located in "Welcome Park," on 2nd Street between Chestnut and Walnut Streets. The park is named after the ship "Welcome" which William Penn, the founder of the colony, arrived on ... More
Bishop White house office - Public Domain image, National Parks Galler...
Bishop White's study is the most unique room in the house. An original painting of the room allowed the curatorial staff to accurately depict the arrangement of the the furniture and items, many of which are o... More
Philadelphia Magnolia tree - National Parks Gallery
The garden includes Saucer Magnolias, Narcissus Snow Azaleas, English Oaks, Honey Locusts, Cotoneasters, and a ground cover of English Ivy.
Dolley Todd House parlor - Public Domain image, National Parks Gallery
In many 18th century homes, the parlor served as a reception room for guests. Since John Todd used a room on the first floor as an office, it is believed the family kept their parlor on the second floor.
Assembly Room in Independence Hall
In 1776, the Continental Congress declared Independence in this room, and in 1787 the U.S. Constitution was debated and signed. Historians consider this room one of the most historic rooms in the United States.
Washington Square, tree lined walk
Originally a burial ground and cattle pasture in the 18th century, the square's natural landscape and built environment changed dramatically in succeeding years. Today there are more than 30 species of trees s... More
Fall in Benjamin Rush Garden - Public Domain image, National Parks Gal...
Dr. Benjamin Rush was close friends with Bishop William White, whose house still stands next door.
Liberty Bell Center exhibits - Public Domain image, National Parks Gal...
The exhibits in the Liberty Bell Center tell the story of the bell's transformation from the State House Bell to the internationally renowned Liberty Bell.
HFCA 1607_Visitors_026.jpg - National Parks Gallery
People looking at the Liberty Bell during the 1984 olympics in Independence National Historical Park.
Magnolia Garden fountain - National Parks Gallery
The 13 hybrid magnolia trees that line the garden's perimeter represent the 13 original colonies
Independence National Historical Park
Excited kids show off their new Every Kid in a Park (EKIP) pass.
Books in Bishop White's study - Public Domain image, National Parks Ga...
Bishop White owned hundreds of books. His library can be seen in the Bishop's study.
Franklin Court Printing Office from Market Street
The Printing Office fronts Market Street, but the entrance is from the courtyard. Franklin never owned a printing office at this location, although he owned a large printing business just a few blocks away.
National parks: Newsletter9 - public domain image
Public domain photo of a monument, historic place, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description
Declaration House, bedchamber - National Parks Gallery
A committee of five men was assigned to draft a document of independence during the summer of 1776. Of the five, Jefferson did most of the work, drafting the document in his lodgings at 7th and Market Street.
Old City Hall - National Parks Gallery
The mayor of Philadelphia coordinated the city's response to the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793 from this building, accepting and recognizing the heroic efforts of the Free African Society led by Richard Allen a... More
Dolley Todd House exterior - Public Domain image, National Parks Galle...
The Dolley Todd House as seen from the corner of 4th and Walnuts Streets.
The Liberty Bell - National Parks Gallery
The Liberty Bell Public domain photograph by National Parks Administration, nature conservation, tourism, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description
Stair case and hallway in the Dolley Todd House
The Dolley Todd House consists of small spaces and winding stair cases. The house accommodated not only Dolley, John, and their two sons, but also Dolley's siblings, and John's law clerk, Isaac Heston.
National parks: Newsletter5 - public domain image
Picryl description: Public domain image of a historic building in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, free to use, no copyright restrictions.
Philadelphia Syng Inkstand - National Parks Gallery
The Syng inkstand is believed to be the silver inkstand in which 56 men dipped their pens to "mutually pledge their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor" in the cause of independence.
Declaration House, parlor - National Parks Gallery
Jefferson finished his timeless defense of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” in little more than two weeks while living on this site in June 1776.
Free Quaker Meeting House, exterior
The Free Quakers came together and established their own place of worship here in 1783, after having been disowned or "read out of meeting" by the mainstream Friends for supporting the Revolutionary War.
Philadelphia Independence Hall - National Parks Gallery
Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were debated and signed.
Magnolia Garden dedication - National Parks Gallery
The Garden Club of America donated the garden to the National Park Service in May 1959.
Rose Garden trees - National Parks Gallery
The Garden houses some 250 roses during peak months in late Spring.
John Todd's office - National Parks Gallery
Working as a lawyer, John Todd used this first floor room of his home as an office.
First Bank, east facade - Public Domain image, National Parks Gallery
The First Bank of the United States dates to 1797. The marble columns are a popular spot for wedding photos. A permit is required for wedding photography in the park.