The Historical District of Philly

Throughout the week we could see Independence Hall and the building housing the Liberty Bell from our hotel window. On Tuesday we finally toured each.

The Liberty Bell is free to see and is held in a long building containing information on the history of the bell and uses throughout that time. Upon entering the building visitors are asked to walk through metal detectors, so in high times expect a wait, luckily winter is not a busy time, so we made it in the door within 5 minutes.

There is a volunteer historian standing around the bell to help answer questions and occasionally will start speaking to the crowd gathered to give some background on the bell. It was fascinating to learn that the bell really had no special beginnings, it was just a bell amongst many in the city. During the British occupation of 1777 it was hidden along with the other bells, outside the city so it was not melted down and used for musket balls. So, maybe that's the appeal of it all, humble beginnings to a great symbol of freedom and unity!

Through the back of the building one can view Independence Hall and if the lighting is right a nice picture of both can be captured.

After leaving the Liberty Bell we traveled across the street to view Independence Hall. It also provides a free tour, given by National Park rangers, and includes a walk through a metal detector.

Originally the hall was used as a courtroom and is still set up as such. Across from the small court room area is the hall where our Founding Fathers discussed, created, and signed the Declaration of Independence.

The infamous Sunrise chair is also located in this room. I posted a picture of myself sitting in the replica here.

There are other buildings on the premises as well, including the first rooms where the newly created Congress and House met. It is amazing to think that so many influential men walked those halls and built a country from the ground up.