Independence Hall
Opening in 1753 as the Pennsylvania State House, this building is one of the most important buildings in America. During the founding of this country, it was here that delegates from each colony met for the Second Continental Congress. Although the famous painting by John Trumbull would have you believe that everyone was gathered in one room to sign the Declaration of Independence on that fateful day, that is not quite how it happened.
It is July 2, 1776, when the colonies officially declare themselves independent. Despite this stance, Congress continues to revise the official document written by Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), all through the day of July 2nd. Since there are 52 men with viewpoints influenced by their separate cultures and geographical locations, each one wants a say in what is in the final document. The revisions continue through July 3rd.
It is July 4th when Congress formally approves the final wording of their Declaration by having it signed by the President of Congress, John Hancock (1737-1793). It is attested and signed by the Secretary of the Continental Congress, Charles Thompson (1729-1824). It is then ordered to be printed with that famous date at the top. Most of the delegates sign the official handwritten copy on parchment paper in August 1776.
The Last Signer does not sign it until 1777.
On July 8, 1776, as the ringing of the city's bells draws a large crowd, Colonel John Nixon (1733-1808) stands on the steps of the Pennsylvania State House to read the first public reading of The Declaration of Independence.
Each year on the anniversary, a reenactment is staged of this reading. All these years later, this building stands tall as the birthplace of our country. Every year, over five million people visit this Philadelphia icon and learn about the Founding Fathers who met here daily and worked hard to fight for what is right.
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Photographer's Guide (EXIF):
Camera: Canon Rebel T-6
Aperture: F4.5
Shutter Speed: 0.8sec
ISO: 100
Exposure Bias: 0
Focal Length: 18mm
Mode: Aperture Priority
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All content by Keith J. Fisher
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