September 11, 2024 • 19 mins
In this captivating episode of Global Treasures, Keith and Abigail explore Independence Hall, the birthplace of American democracy in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Discover the rich history behind this iconic landmark where both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were debated and signed. Join us for a journey through time, architectural insights, and insider tips for your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Abigail (00:00):
Imagine a place that tells a story spanning centuries,
Keith (00:04):
where culture and nature intertwine to create something truly extraordinary.
Abigail (00:09):
That's the beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
I'm Abigail,
Keith (00:15):
and I'm Keith.
Abigail (00:17):
And this is Global Treasures.
The podcast that covers thehistory, travel tips, and legends
surrounding one of the 1, 223World Heritage Sites each episode.
Keith (00:29):
These places have been identified as having universal
cultural or natural significance
Abigail (00:34):
that is so exceptional that it transcends national
boundaries, and is of importanceto present and future generations.
Keith (00:42):
Thanks for joining us for season two, where we're going to explore the
45 sites that UNESCO added in 1979.
Abigail (00:54):
In this episode, Keith and I will be taking you to Independence Hall.
Independence Hall is located inPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, in
the United States of America.
Keith (01:05):
Today, we're taking you on a journey to the heart of American
democracy, Independence Hall.
This iconic building isn't just abeautiful piece of architecture,
it's the birthplace of a nationand the cradle of modern democracy.
Independence Hall, originally knownas the Pennsylvania Statehouse, is
a National Historic Park that holdsimmense significance in American history.
(01:28):
It was within these brick walls that twoof the most important documents in United
States history were debated and signed.
The Declaration of Independence in1776, and the Constitution in 1787.
These documents, enshrining universalprinciples of freedom and democracy,
didn't just shape the United States,they had a profound impact on lawmakers
(01:51):
around the world, becoming models forsimilar charters in other nations.
Many historians consider thesedocuments to have heralded
the modern era of government.
Abigail (02:02):
Independence Hall is located on Chestnut Street, between 5th
and 6th Streets in Philadelphia.
This location put it at the heart of earlyAmerican political life, making it the
perfect stage for the birth of a nation.
The architecture of IndependenceHall is a prime example of Georgian
style, popular in the 18th century.
(02:25):
Designed by attorney AndrewHamilton, in collaboration with
master builder Edmund Woolley, thebuilding boasts a striking red brick
facade, stretching 107 feet long.
Its highest point, the bell tower andsteeple, reaches an impressive 168
(02:45):
feet and seven and a quarter inches.
The central building is flankedby wing buildings connected by
closed arcades, known as hyphens.
Inside, you'll find two chamberson the first floor and a
center hall about 20 feet wide.
Over the years, the building has undergoneseveral restorations, including work
(03:09):
by architect John Haviland in the 1830sand a major project by the National Park
Service in the 1950s, which returned itto its appearance during the crucial years
when the Declaration of Independence andConstitution were debated and signed.
Keith (03:27):
The history of Independence Hall is a tapestry woven with
the threads of America's journeyfrom colony to full nation.
Let's take a walk through time, shall we?
So our story begins in 1729 whenthe Pennsylvania Assembly decided
it was high time they had a properhouse for the Assembly to meet in.
Construction of what was then called theState House began in 1732, but it wasn't
(03:51):
until 1750 through 1753 that the iconictower and the steeple were added to it.
It was during this time that abell was ordered, bearing the
now famous inscription, Proclaimliberty throughout all the land
unto all the inhabitants thereof.
Little did they know how propheticthose words would become.
(04:11):
The 1770s saw IndependenceHall take center stage in the
drama of American independence.
In 1775, within these very walls, GeorgeWashington was appointed commander
in chief of the Continental Army,and then the famous Benjamin Franklin
became the first Postmaster General.
But it was 1776 that truly etched thisbuilding into the annals of history.
(04:36):
On July 4, 1776, the Declaration ofIndependence was adopted and then
read aloud to the public in whatwe now know as Independence Square.
Picture the scene (04:46):
56 brave souls putting their lives on the line by
signing this revolutionary document.
John Hancock, ever the showman,signed first, his name writ large
for King George to see without hisspectacles, or so the story goes.
Abigail (05:03):
But the road to independence was not smooth.
From 1776 to 1777, the ContinentalCongress had to flee Philadelphia
due to British occupation, meetingin Baltimore, Lancaster, and York.
It was during their time in York that theArticles of Confederation were drafted.
(05:25):
In 1787, Independence Hall once againbecame the focal point of nation building
as the Constitutional Convention convened.
Imagine the heated debates, thecompromises, the vision of a new
form of government taking shape.
On June 21st, 1788, the U.
(05:47):
S.
Constitution, now the longeststanding written and codified national
constitution in the world, was ratified.
Keith (05:56):
The 1790s saw Philadelphia serve as the nation's capital, with
Independence Hall at its heart.
But the building'ssignificance didn't end there.
Throughout the 19th century,it continued to play a crucial
role in American history.
In the 1830s and 40s, theStatehouse Bell became known as
the Liberty Bell, a powerful symbolin abolitionist publications.
(06:18):
The building itself became a backdropfor the struggle against slavery.
The famous Frederick Douglass spokeagainst slavery in Independence Square
in 1844, and in the 1850s, fugitive slavehearings were held within its walls.
The Civil War era broughtmore historic moments.
Abraham Lincoln visited in 1861,and after his assassination in 1865,
(06:41):
his body lay in state here, allowingthe public to pay their respects.
Abigail (06:46):
As the nation grew and changed, so did Independence Hall's role.
It became a shrine to Americandemocracy, hosting centennial
celebrations for both the Declarationof Independence and the Constitution.
The Liberty Bell embarked on seventours across the nation between
1885 and 1915, spreading itsmessage of liberty far and wide.
(07:13):
The 20th century saw Independence Hallcontinue to be a symbol of American
ideals and a site of civic engagement.
In 1915, it hosted a convention thatled to the formation of the League of
Nations and eventually the United Nations.
The ratification of the 19thAmendment, giving women the right
(07:34):
to vote was celebrated here in 1920.
Keith (07:38):
In the 1960s, the building its surroundings became a focal point
for civil rights demonstrations,including sit ins at the Liberty
Bell and gay rights demonstrations.
These events highlighted that thestruggle for Liberty and equality, begun
in this very building was far from over.
In 1976, America's bicentennial year,the Liberty Bell was moved to its own
(08:00):
pavilion, allowing more visitors tosee the symbol of American freedom.
Three years later, IndependenceHall's global significance was
recognized, when it was declareda UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Abigail (08:12):
The building's story continues to evolve.
In 2001, security measures were increasedfollowing the September 11th attacks.
In 2010, an outdoor exhibit andmemorial were dedicated at the site of
the president's house, acknowledgingthe complex history of freedom and
slavery, in the early republic.
Keith (08:35):
Today, Independence Hall stands not only as a relic of the past, but
as a living symbol of the ongoingAmerican experiment in democracy.
It reminds us that the ideals of libertyand equality, first articulated here,
require constant vigilance and renewedcommitment from each generation.
Now, let's dive into some fun factsthat will make you smarter than your
(08:56):
average tourist when you go to visit.
And it's one of the easiest sitesin the United States to visit.
So did you know that the LibertyBell, Pennsylvania is actually
misspelled as P E N S Y L V A N I A?
Which is wrong by the way.
Don't worry though, it wasn't a mistake.
This was actually one ofseveral acceptable spellings
of Pennsylvania at the time.
(09:17):
If you're planning a visit as well, you'llbe pleased to know it's quite affordable.
Just register online and youcan get a ticket for only $1.
Abigail (09:25):
Movie buffs might recognize Independence Hall from films like
National Treasure and Shooter, butits cinematic fame pales in comparison
to its numismatic appearances.
The assembly room is featured on thereverse of the US $2 bill, based on
a painting by John Trumbull calledThe Declaration of Independence.
(09:49):
The hall itself has graced the back of the$100 bill since 1928, and appeared on the
1975 76 Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar.
And you may not know this,Keith, but I actually own one.
Keith (10:04):
That's kind of cool, how very American of you.
So anyway, here's a fun piece oflinguistic trivia: because of the
size of John Hancock's signatureon the Declaration of Independence,
term John Hancock or simply Hancockactually became synonymous with
one's signature in the United States.
So if you're signing your document,they'll say, put your Hancock right here.
(10:26):
We've journeyed through time, exploredthe architecture, and even picked up
some fun trivia about Independence Hall.
But nothing quite compares toactually going and experiencing
this historic gem in person.
The echoes of debates past, the weightof decisions made within these walls, and
the enduring spirit of democracy, it'sall waiting to be discovered by visitors.
So, I've been there, and we're goingto have Abigail actually talk to
(10:50):
us about what it's like to visitthis cradle of American liberty.
So, Abigail, take us away for that.
Abigail (10:57):
Like Keith said, now that we've covered the history, I'm ready to go.
If you want to visit IndependenceHall, you'll want to fly into
Philadelphia International Airport.
Once you're there, you can takeadvantage of the sixth largest
transit systems in the United States.
They have trains, subways, a trolley, andbus lines available that are inexpensive.
(11:23):
Independence Hall is open every day, andtickets are almost free, there's just a
minor administrative fee you have to pay.
The tickets are timed entry fortours, with no tickets being
required during the slower wintermonths or early morning hours.
However, there is a (11:39):
during those hours, it's self guided
only, you won't have a tour.
Apparently there are park rangersaround if you have any questions though.
Also, you will have to passthrough security, so arrive
early as not to miss your tour.
You can call for tickets,or go on recreation.
(12:00):
gov.
Make sure you book in advance as early aspossible, since Independence Hall garners
more than 5 million visitors annually.
Tours are noted as being about20 minutes long, so this probably
isn't a site you're going to lingerin for more than an hour tops.
Something I thought was fantastic andwanted to note is American Sign Language
(12:24):
interpreters are available by request.
So, reach out in advance toget that arranged if needed.
Also, the first flooris handicap accessible.
And this all makes me so happybecause it's not always the case
with World Heritage Sites thatthey're even somewhat ADA compliant.
God bless America, as they say.
(12:45):
In terms of the best time to go, Igenerally avoid times of the year
when you'll be battling school groups.
If you're using the weather asyour guide, summers do get hot,
peaking at 80 to 90 degreesFahrenheit with some precipitation.
In the winter, Philly doesget snow, and it can get as
low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
(13:07):
So, if you don't like the snowor cold, aim for the summer.
Keith (13:11):
I remember when I went, I took a tour and it was actually really
great because they added a lot ofthings that I didn't know that I
probably should have as an American.
So you mentioned this isn't necessarilya place where someone might spend a
lot of time, which I can back up, Iwasn't there for more than 40 minutes.
Are there other things worthvisiting while you're there?
Abigail (13:30):
Definitely.
So, if you're a history buff, theLiberty Bell is right across the
street from Independence Hall.
I've heard people tell me they wereunderwhelmed visiting the bell because,
much like Independence Hall, you justgo see the cracked bell, maybe take
a photo and leave, but it's aboutwhat it represents for the United
(13:51):
States that makes it so special.
Then, you have the Philadelphia Museumof Art, the Franklin Institute, you can
go visit the piers, or go to ReadingTerminal Market, which is technically
an indoor farmer's market, but Ifeel like that's underselling it.
They have bakeries, ice cream,restaurants, arts and crafts
(14:13):
vendors, and so much more.
And, if you're trying to navigate whereto stay in the city, you'll have tons
of chain hotels, bed and breakfasts,and homestays at your disposal.
In terms of safety, be careful at night.
If you stay in the mall area, you'reprobably fine because there's a
(14:34):
relatively active police presence,but I'm always going to put this
warning out there with any large city.
Oh, and I almost forgot tomention one of my favorite things.
So for those paranormal lovers andbelievers like me, ghost tours often
stop here as the ghost of BenjaminFranklin has reportedly been seen
(14:55):
looking at a copy of the declarationof independence in the assembly
room, surrounded by a creepy mist.
Benedict Arnold, the U.
S.
military defector, has also beenseen wandering around the building.
Shadowy figures and musty smellshave been reported as well.
So, if you want to book a ghosttour, you'll find you have quite
(15:17):
a few options on vetted sites.
Keith (15:19):
Great points.
So, ghost tours really aren't my thingunless they will scare up my appetite.
Sorry, I just had to.
And of course, with Philly (15:26):
I know you want to talk about the Philly
cheesesteak and all the other good food.
Abigail (15:32):
Heck yeah.
The Philly cheesesteak is thespirit animal of Philadelphia.
It was a sandwich invented in the 1930sthat's served on a toasted roll with
thinly sliced beef and cheese, sometimesVelveeta style pseudo cheese product,
and usually with or without onions.
People stand in very long lines at theiconic restaurants that serve them, so
(15:58):
don't be surprised if you have to wait.
I promise it's worth it.
But, if that's not your jam, andyou're still into carbs, they're
known for having some of the best,rich, soft pretzels in the country.
I think most people know what softpretzels are, but in case you don't,
it's dough shaped in a braided figureeight, covered in a thick, crunchy salt,
(16:22):
and usually topped with a spicy mustard.
Sometimes they're savory and sometimesthat they're sweet as well, covered in
cinnamon sugar, which is my favorite.
So, transitioning, as always, I liketo end episodes talking about how the
City of Philadelphia and National ParkService are working to keep Independence
(16:44):
Hall in a high state of preservationwith a comprehensive management plan.
There have been conservationstudies done and advice yielded
from experts to ensure properrestoration techniques are being used.
Some examples of projectsinclude steel supports they put
in to stabilize the building.
(17:04):
They also continually monitor theimpact of the heavy visitation and
have put in security systems to ensurevisitors and staff are kept safe.
Almost all of the exterior elements, aswell as interior, are the same design and
structure, and original materials is whenthe founding fathers graced the building.
(17:27):
And because it's owned by the city andmanaged by the National Park Service,
it gets quite a bit of funding.
And I always say (17:34):
the sites with the most visitors are going to get
the most dollars and attention.
That's why we have this podcast.
To bring light to all UNESCOworld heritage sites, because
they're all equally important.
Thank you for listening tothe global treasures podcast.
If you would like to support the show,you can subscribe at apple podcasts.
(17:57):
Spotify, or whereveryou get your podcasts.
You can also check us out onYouTube, TikTok, or Facebook.
Keith (18:04):
As we conclude our journey through the hallowed halls of Independence
Hall, we'd like to express our heartfeltthanks for joining us on this exploration
of America's democracy's birthplace.
Abigail and I are truly passionateabout bringing these UNESCO
World Heritage Sites to life.
We hope our discussion has ignitedyour interest in this cornerstone of U.
S.
history.
Abigail (18:25):
If you've enjoyed our deep dive into Independence Hall,
we'd be incredibly grateful if youcould just take a moment to leave
us a five star written review.
Your feedback not only helpsfellow history enthusiasts and
travel lovers discover our show,but also fuels our commitment to
showcasing these remarkable sites.
Whether it's a few words or alonger reflection, each review
(18:48):
is a valuable contribution to ourmission of preserving and celebrating
our shared global heritage.
We're deeply appreciative ofall of listeners who help spread
the word About these incrediblelandmarks, and the stories they hold.
Keith (19:02):
Now, get ready to pack your virtual bags as we prepare for our next adventure.
We're heading halfway across the world tothe mystical Kathmandu Valley in Nepal.
This breathtaking region is home toseven groups of monuments and buildings,
that showcase the full range of historicand artistic achievements that have
made Kathmandu Valley world famous.
(19:22):
We'll explore a tapestry ofarchitectural wonders set against the
backdrop of the majestic Himalayas.
Until then, keep your passionfor heritage burning bright
and your sense of wonder alive.
The next chapter in our globalexploration of human creativity
and spiritual devotion awaits.
Imagine a place that tells a story spanning centuries,
Keith (00:04):
where culture and nature intertwine to create something truly extraordinary.
Abigail (00:09):
That's the beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
I'm Abigail,
Keith (00:15):
and I'm Keith.
Abigail (00:17):
And this is Global Treasures.
The podcast that covers thehistory, travel tips, and legends
surrounding one of the 1, 223World Heritage Sites each episode.
Keith (00:29):
These places have been identified as having universal
cultural or natural significance
Abigail (00:34):
that is so exceptional that it transcends national
boundaries, and is of importanceto present and future generations.
Keith (00:42):
Thanks for joining us for season two, where we're going to explore the
45 sites that UNESCO added in 1979.
Abigail (00:54):
In this episode, Keith and I will be taking you to Independence Hall.
Independence Hall is located inPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, in
the United States of America.
Keith (01:05):
Today, we're taking you on a journey to the heart of American
democracy, Independence Hall.
This iconic building isn't just abeautiful piece of architecture,
it's the birthplace of a nationand the cradle of modern democracy.
Independence Hall, originally knownas the Pennsylvania Statehouse, is
a National Historic Park that holdsimmense significance in American history.
(01:28):
It was within these brick walls that twoof the most important documents in United
States history were debated and signed.
The Declaration of Independence in1776, and the Constitution in 1787.
These documents, enshrining universalprinciples of freedom and democracy,
didn't just shape the United States,they had a profound impact on lawmakers
(01:51):
around the world, becoming models forsimilar charters in other nations.
Many historians consider thesedocuments to have heralded
the modern era of government.
Abigail (02:02):
Independence Hall is located on Chestnut Street, between 5th
and 6th Streets in Philadelphia.
This location put it at the heart of earlyAmerican political life, making it the
perfect stage for the birth of a nation.
The architecture of IndependenceHall is a prime example of Georgian
style, popular in the 18th century.
(02:25):
Designed by attorney AndrewHamilton, in collaboration with
master builder Edmund Woolley, thebuilding boasts a striking red brick
facade, stretching 107 feet long.
Its highest point, the bell tower andsteeple, reaches an impressive 168
(02:45):
feet and seven and a quarter inches.
The central building is flankedby wing buildings connected by
closed arcades, known as hyphens.
Inside, you'll find two chamberson the first floor and a
center hall about 20 feet wide.
Over the years, the building has undergoneseveral restorations, including work
(03:09):
by architect John Haviland in the 1830sand a major project by the National Park
Service in the 1950s, which returned itto its appearance during the crucial years
when the Declaration of Independence andConstitution were debated and signed.
Keith (03:27):
The history of Independence Hall is a tapestry woven with
the threads of America's journeyfrom colony to full nation.
Let's take a walk through time, shall we?
So our story begins in 1729 whenthe Pennsylvania Assembly decided
it was high time they had a properhouse for the Assembly to meet in.
Construction of what was then called theState House began in 1732, but it wasn't
(03:51):
until 1750 through 1753 that the iconictower and the steeple were added to it.
It was during this time that abell was ordered, bearing the
now famous inscription, Proclaimliberty throughout all the land
unto all the inhabitants thereof.
Little did they know how propheticthose words would become.
(04:11):
The 1770s saw IndependenceHall take center stage in the
drama of American independence.
In 1775, within these very walls, GeorgeWashington was appointed commander
in chief of the Continental Army,and then the famous Benjamin Franklin
became the first Postmaster General.
But it was 1776 that truly etched thisbuilding into the annals of history.
(04:36):
On July 4, 1776, the Declaration ofIndependence was adopted and then
read aloud to the public in whatwe now know as Independence Square.
Picture the scene (04:46):
56 brave souls putting their lives on the line by
signing this revolutionary document.
John Hancock, ever the showman,signed first, his name writ large
for King George to see without hisspectacles, or so the story goes.
Abigail (05:03):
But the road to independence was not smooth.
From 1776 to 1777, the ContinentalCongress had to flee Philadelphia
due to British occupation, meetingin Baltimore, Lancaster, and York.
It was during their time in York that theArticles of Confederation were drafted.
(05:25):
In 1787, Independence Hall once againbecame the focal point of nation building
as the Constitutional Convention convened.
Imagine the heated debates, thecompromises, the vision of a new
form of government taking shape.
On June 21st, 1788, the U.
(05:47):
S.
Constitution, now the longeststanding written and codified national
constitution in the world, was ratified.
Keith (05:56):
The 1790s saw Philadelphia serve as the nation's capital, with
Independence Hall at its heart.
But the building'ssignificance didn't end there.
Throughout the 19th century,it continued to play a crucial
role in American history.
In the 1830s and 40s, theStatehouse Bell became known as
the Liberty Bell, a powerful symbolin abolitionist publications.
(06:18):
The building itself became a backdropfor the struggle against slavery.
The famous Frederick Douglass spokeagainst slavery in Independence Square
in 1844, and in the 1850s, fugitive slavehearings were held within its walls.
The Civil War era broughtmore historic moments.
Abraham Lincoln visited in 1861,and after his assassination in 1865,
(06:41):
his body lay in state here, allowingthe public to pay their respects.
Abigail (06:46):
As the nation grew and changed, so did Independence Hall's role.
It became a shrine to Americandemocracy, hosting centennial
celebrations for both the Declarationof Independence and the Constitution.
The Liberty Bell embarked on seventours across the nation between
1885 and 1915, spreading itsmessage of liberty far and wide.
(07:13):
The 20th century saw Independence Hallcontinue to be a symbol of American
ideals and a site of civic engagement.
In 1915, it hosted a convention thatled to the formation of the League of
Nations and eventually the United Nations.
The ratification of the 19thAmendment, giving women the right
(07:34):
to vote was celebrated here in 1920.
Keith (07:38):
In the 1960s, the building its surroundings became a focal point
for civil rights demonstrations,including sit ins at the Liberty
Bell and gay rights demonstrations.
These events highlighted that thestruggle for Liberty and equality, begun
in this very building was far from over.
In 1976, America's bicentennial year,the Liberty Bell was moved to its own
(08:00):
pavilion, allowing more visitors tosee the symbol of American freedom.
Three years later, IndependenceHall's global significance was
recognized, when it was declareda UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Abigail (08:12):
The building's story continues to evolve.
In 2001, security measures were increasedfollowing the September 11th attacks.
In 2010, an outdoor exhibit andmemorial were dedicated at the site of
the president's house, acknowledgingthe complex history of freedom and
slavery, in the early republic.
Keith (08:35):
Today, Independence Hall stands not only as a relic of the past, but
as a living symbol of the ongoingAmerican experiment in democracy.
It reminds us that the ideals of libertyand equality, first articulated here,
require constant vigilance and renewedcommitment from each generation.
Now, let's dive into some fun factsthat will make you smarter than your
(08:56):
average tourist when you go to visit.
And it's one of the easiest sitesin the United States to visit.
So did you know that the LibertyBell, Pennsylvania is actually
misspelled as P E N S Y L V A N I A?
Which is wrong by the way.
Don't worry though, it wasn't a mistake.
This was actually one ofseveral acceptable spellings
of Pennsylvania at the time.
(09:17):
If you're planning a visit as well, you'llbe pleased to know it's quite affordable.
Just register online and youcan get a ticket for only $1.
Abigail (09:25):
Movie buffs might recognize Independence Hall from films like
National Treasure and Shooter, butits cinematic fame pales in comparison
to its numismatic appearances.
The assembly room is featured on thereverse of the US $2 bill, based on
a painting by John Trumbull calledThe Declaration of Independence.
(09:49):
The hall itself has graced the back of the$100 bill since 1928, and appeared on the
1975 76 Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar.
And you may not know this,Keith, but I actually own one.
Keith (10:04):
That's kind of cool, how very American of you.
So anyway, here's a fun piece oflinguistic trivia: because of the
size of John Hancock's signatureon the Declaration of Independence,
term John Hancock or simply Hancockactually became synonymous with
one's signature in the United States.
So if you're signing your document,they'll say, put your Hancock right here.
(10:26):
We've journeyed through time, exploredthe architecture, and even picked up
some fun trivia about Independence Hall.
But nothing quite compares toactually going and experiencing
this historic gem in person.
The echoes of debates past, the weightof decisions made within these walls, and
the enduring spirit of democracy, it'sall waiting to be discovered by visitors.
So, I've been there, and we're goingto have Abigail actually talk to
(10:50):
us about what it's like to visitthis cradle of American liberty.
So, Abigail, take us away for that.
Abigail (10:57):
Like Keith said, now that we've covered the history, I'm ready to go.
If you want to visit IndependenceHall, you'll want to fly into
Philadelphia International Airport.
Once you're there, you can takeadvantage of the sixth largest
transit systems in the United States.
They have trains, subways, a trolley, andbus lines available that are inexpensive.
(11:23):
Independence Hall is open every day, andtickets are almost free, there's just a
minor administrative fee you have to pay.
The tickets are timed entry fortours, with no tickets being
required during the slower wintermonths or early morning hours.
However, there is a (11:39):
during those hours, it's self guided
only, you won't have a tour.
Apparently there are park rangersaround if you have any questions though.
Also, you will have to passthrough security, so arrive
early as not to miss your tour.
You can call for tickets,or go on recreation.
(12:00):
gov.
Make sure you book in advance as early aspossible, since Independence Hall garners
more than 5 million visitors annually.
Tours are noted as being about20 minutes long, so this probably
isn't a site you're going to lingerin for more than an hour tops.
Something I thought was fantastic andwanted to note is American Sign Language
(12:24):
interpreters are available by request.
So, reach out in advance toget that arranged if needed.
Also, the first flooris handicap accessible.
And this all makes me so happybecause it's not always the case
with World Heritage Sites thatthey're even somewhat ADA compliant.
God bless America, as they say.
(12:45):
In terms of the best time to go, Igenerally avoid times of the year
when you'll be battling school groups.
If you're using the weather asyour guide, summers do get hot,
peaking at 80 to 90 degreesFahrenheit with some precipitation.
In the winter, Philly doesget snow, and it can get as
low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
(13:07):
So, if you don't like the snowor cold, aim for the summer.
Keith (13:11):
I remember when I went, I took a tour and it was actually really
great because they added a lot ofthings that I didn't know that I
probably should have as an American.
So you mentioned this isn't necessarilya place where someone might spend a
lot of time, which I can back up, Iwasn't there for more than 40 minutes.
Are there other things worthvisiting while you're there?
Abigail (13:30):
Definitely.
So, if you're a history buff, theLiberty Bell is right across the
street from Independence Hall.
I've heard people tell me they wereunderwhelmed visiting the bell because,
much like Independence Hall, you justgo see the cracked bell, maybe take
a photo and leave, but it's aboutwhat it represents for the United
(13:51):
States that makes it so special.
Then, you have the Philadelphia Museumof Art, the Franklin Institute, you can
go visit the piers, or go to ReadingTerminal Market, which is technically
an indoor farmer's market, but Ifeel like that's underselling it.
They have bakeries, ice cream,restaurants, arts and crafts
(14:13):
vendors, and so much more.
And, if you're trying to navigate whereto stay in the city, you'll have tons
of chain hotels, bed and breakfasts,and homestays at your disposal.
In terms of safety, be careful at night.
If you stay in the mall area, you'reprobably fine because there's a
(14:34):
relatively active police presence,but I'm always going to put this
warning out there with any large city.
Oh, and I almost forgot tomention one of my favorite things.
So for those paranormal lovers andbelievers like me, ghost tours often
stop here as the ghost of BenjaminFranklin has reportedly been seen
(14:55):
looking at a copy of the declarationof independence in the assembly
room, surrounded by a creepy mist.
Benedict Arnold, the U.
S.
military defector, has also beenseen wandering around the building.
Shadowy figures and musty smellshave been reported as well.
So, if you want to book a ghosttour, you'll find you have quite
(15:17):
a few options on vetted sites.
Keith (15:19):
Great points.
So, ghost tours really aren't my thingunless they will scare up my appetite.
Sorry, I just had to.
And of course, with Philly (15:26):
I know you want to talk about the Philly
cheesesteak and all the other good food.
Abigail (15:32):
Heck yeah.
The Philly cheesesteak is thespirit animal of Philadelphia.
It was a sandwich invented in the 1930sthat's served on a toasted roll with
thinly sliced beef and cheese, sometimesVelveeta style pseudo cheese product,
and usually with or without onions.
People stand in very long lines at theiconic restaurants that serve them, so
(15:58):
don't be surprised if you have to wait.
I promise it's worth it.
But, if that's not your jam, andyou're still into carbs, they're
known for having some of the best,rich, soft pretzels in the country.
I think most people know what softpretzels are, but in case you don't,
it's dough shaped in a braided figureeight, covered in a thick, crunchy salt,
(16:22):
and usually topped with a spicy mustard.
Sometimes they're savory and sometimesthat they're sweet as well, covered in
cinnamon sugar, which is my favorite.
So, transitioning, as always, I liketo end episodes talking about how the
City of Philadelphia and National ParkService are working to keep Independence
(16:44):
Hall in a high state of preservationwith a comprehensive management plan.
There have been conservationstudies done and advice yielded
from experts to ensure properrestoration techniques are being used.
Some examples of projectsinclude steel supports they put
in to stabilize the building.
(17:04):
They also continually monitor theimpact of the heavy visitation and
have put in security systems to ensurevisitors and staff are kept safe.
Almost all of the exterior elements, aswell as interior, are the same design and
structure, and original materials is whenthe founding fathers graced the building.
(17:27):
And because it's owned by the city andmanaged by the National Park Service,
it gets quite a bit of funding.
And I always say (17:34):
the sites with the most visitors are going to get
the most dollars and attention.
That's why we have this podcast.
To bring light to all UNESCOworld heritage sites, because
they're all equally important.
Thank you for listening tothe global treasures podcast.
If you would like to support the show,you can subscribe at apple podcasts.
(17:57):
Spotify, or whereveryou get your podcasts.
You can also check us out onYouTube, TikTok, or Facebook.
Keith (18:04):
As we conclude our journey through the hallowed halls of Independence
Hall, we'd like to express our heartfeltthanks for joining us on this exploration
of America's democracy's birthplace.
Abigail and I are truly passionateabout bringing these UNESCO
World Heritage Sites to life.
We hope our discussion has ignitedyour interest in this cornerstone of U.
S.
history.
Abigail (18:25):
If you've enjoyed our deep dive into Independence Hall,
we'd be incredibly grateful if youcould just take a moment to leave
us a five star written review.
Your feedback not only helpsfellow history enthusiasts and
travel lovers discover our show,but also fuels our commitment to
showcasing these remarkable sites.
Whether it's a few words or alonger reflection, each review
(18:48):
is a valuable contribution to ourmission of preserving and celebrating
our shared global heritage.
We're deeply appreciative ofall of listeners who help spread
the word About these incrediblelandmarks, and the stories they hold.
Keith (19:02):
Now, get ready to pack your virtual bags as we prepare for our next adventure.
We're heading halfway across the world tothe mystical Kathmandu Valley in Nepal.
This breathtaking region is home toseven groups of monuments and buildings,
that showcase the full range of historicand artistic achievements that have
made Kathmandu Valley world famous.
(19:22):
We'll explore a tapestry ofarchitectural wonders set against the
backdrop of the majestic Himalayas.
Until then, keep your passionfor heritage burning bright
and your sense of wonder alive.
The next chapter in our globalexploration of human creativity
and spiritual devotion awaits.
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