Philadelphia Named Among Top Places to Celebrate America’s 250th
As the United States prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of its founding this Independence Day, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania anticipates increased visitation at Independence Hall and other historic sites….
As the United States prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of its founding this Independence Day, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania anticipates increased visitation at Independence Hall and other historic sites.
In a Jan. 3 post on Uncovering PA, travel enthusiast Jim Cheney named Philadelphia to his list of 11 places in Pennsylvania to celebrate the semiquincentennial of the United States.
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He called Independence Hall in Philadelphia "nowhere better to visit during the celebration of America's 250th birthday than the place where it all started." Independence Hall is the centerpiece of Independence National Historical Park in Old City Philadelphia. According to Cheney, it's "a spot that has been dubbed the most historic square mile in the U.S. It was in this largely rebuilt building that the Continental Congress ratified and signed the Declaration of Independence in July of 1776."
Cheney also notes the following 10 historical attractions in the state worth exploring this year:
- Bells Across PA is a 250th celebration initiative featuring decorated fiberglass Liberty Bell replicas installed across Pennsylvania. A complete list of locations is available online.
- The Eisenhower house at Eisenhower National Historic Site in Gettysburg offers a look at Dwight D. Eisenhower's life after military service and his post-presidency visits by world leaders. It is the only home that Eisenhower and his wife, Mamie, ever owned.
- Fair Play Men is a lesser-known revolutionary-era group that proclaimed independence in 1776 at Pine Creek in Clinton County, an event commemorated today by a monument on the site.
- Fort Necessity National Battlefield preserves the stories of the French and Indian War and the path to the Revolution, highlighting the site as the only time Gen. George Washington surrendered during his military career.
- Gettysburg National Military Park interprets the history of the famous 1863 Battle of Gettysburg and the place where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg Address for the dedication of Soldiers' National Cemetery.
- The Museum of the American Revolution in Old City Philadelphia offers an interactive, comprehensive study of the war's causes and events. It is well-suited for families to explore.
- Valley Forge National Historic Park recalls how Gen. George Washington's army was shaped into a capable fighting force during the American Revolution.
- Washington Crossing Historic Park in Bucks County is noted for its connection with the famous Christmas 1776 crossing of the Delaware by Washington and his troops.
- Wheatland, the Lancaster home of President James Buchanan, offers insights into his life and presidency.
- The York Colonial Complex in York is highlighted for its associations with the early use of "The United States of America" and the 1777 Articles of Confederation. History is showcased through a reconstructed courthouse and educational displays.
