Independence Hall is one of the nation's most historic buildings. It was the place where our nation was founded and our system of government established. Delegates of the 13 British Colonies met in the Assembly Room of the Pennsylvania State House and debated and approved the Declaration of Independence. It was here that the Articles of Confederation were adopted in 1781 and the U.S. Constitution was drafted in 1787. Built between 1732 and 1756 the building's actual name is the State House of the Province of Pennsylvania and it only came to be known as Independence Hall in the 19th century.
Your tour of Independence Hall takes you to both main rooms on the first floor, the courtroom and the Assembly Room. The building, inside and out, has been restored whenever possible to its original late-18th century appearance. Most of the furnishing are period pieces. The "rising sun" chair used by George Washington as he presided over the Constitutional Convention is the original.
Following your tour, you will exit Independence Hall by the front door that faces south. The classic view of Independence Hall facing the mall and the Liberty Bell Center is actually the back of the building!
