Philosophical Hall, Philadelphia
Philosophical Hall, a historic landmark in Philadelphia, has been the epicenter of intellectual and scientific discourse for over two centuries as the headquarters of the American Philosophical Society (APS). This society, established in 1743, initially lacked a permanent meeting place, leading its members to convene in various locations across Philadelphia. It was not until 1783, forty years after its inception, that the APS members resolved to build a dedicated space for their gatherings.
Their initial consideration was a lot near Arch Street, but fate had a different plan. A lot in the State House yard, now known as Independence Square and adjacent to the renowned Independence Hall, became available. Recognizing the significance of this location, the Pennsylvania Legislative Assembly generously granted this lot to the Society in 1785.
This auspicious beginning marked the start of a challenging journey to erect Philosophical Hall. The Society immediately embarked on the construction, beginning with the excavation of the cellar. However, financial constraints slowed down the progress, stretching the construction period to four years. It was during this time that Benjamin Franklin, a notable member of the Society, stepped in with a crucial loan, providing the final financial push needed to complete the building.
Since its completion, Philosophical Hall has stood as a symbol of the American commitment to intellectual pursuit and scientific inquiry, standing in close proximity to Independence Hall, a site of immense historical significance in the United States. The Hall not only represents the enduring legacy of the APS but also serves as a testament to the collaborative spirit and determination of its founding members, including the likes of Benjamin Franklin.
Their initial consideration was a lot near Arch Street, but fate had a different plan. A lot in the State House yard, now known as Independence Square and adjacent to the renowned Independence Hall, became available. Recognizing the significance of this location, the Pennsylvania Legislative Assembly generously granted this lot to the Society in 1785.
This auspicious beginning marked the start of a challenging journey to erect Philosophical Hall. The Society immediately embarked on the construction, beginning with the excavation of the cellar. However, financial constraints slowed down the progress, stretching the construction period to four years. It was during this time that Benjamin Franklin, a notable member of the Society, stepped in with a crucial loan, providing the final financial push needed to complete the building.
Since its completion, Philosophical Hall has stood as a symbol of the American commitment to intellectual pursuit and scientific inquiry, standing in close proximity to Independence Hall, a site of immense historical significance in the United States. The Hall not only represents the enduring legacy of the APS but also serves as a testament to the collaborative spirit and determination of its founding members, including the likes of Benjamin Franklin.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Philadelphia. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Philosophical Hall on Map
Sight Name: Philosophical Hall
Sight Location: Philadelphia, USA (See walking tours in Philadelphia)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Philadelphia, USA (See walking tours in Philadelphia)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Create Your Own Walk in Philadelphia
Creating your own self-guided walk in Philadelphia is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
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Fairmount Park, Philadelphia's oldest park, established since 1867, is also the city's largest municipal park, sprawling over 2,000 acres adjacent to the banks of the Schuylkill River. The park grew out of the Lemon Hill estate of Henry Pratt, whose land was originally owned by Robert Morris, signer of the Declaration of Independence.
In 1972, the park was placed on the National... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.7 Km or 2.9 Miles
In 1972, the park was placed on the National... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.7 Km or 2.9 Miles
Benjamin Franklin's Philadelphia
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
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Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
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The cultural phenomenon was created by Sylvester Stallone, who wrote,... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 6.3 Km or 3.9 Miles
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Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 6.3 Km or 3.9 Miles
Philadelphia Old City Walking Tour
King Charles II of England, while seriously indebted to Admiral Sir William Penn, settled his debt in 1681 by granting lands in America to William Penn, the Admiral's Quaker son. A thorn in the King's side, young Penn sailed to America, where he envisioned a utopian society based on tolerance and founded Philadelphia, the "City of Brotherly Love."
The Old City Center, the... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
Philadelphia Introduction Walking Tour
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Often called Philly, Philadelphia is also known as the City of Brotherly Love – a... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Franklin Parkway Walking Tour
Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a scenic boulevard running through the cultural heart of Philadelphia. Named for America's Founding Father, Benjamin Franklin, this mile-long tree-lined parkway is lined with several notable sights and world-class museums.
At its heart lies Logan Circle, a charming green space centered around a picturesque fountain. This spot can provide a refreshing break on... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
At its heart lies Logan Circle, a charming green space centered around a picturesque fountain. This spot can provide a refreshing break on... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
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Looking for a great gift while visiting Philadelphia? Famous for its history, arts and culture, championship sports teams, and award-winning food and drink, Philadelphia is a top-rated shopping destination. Here, you'll find an amazing selection of items to choose from - something uniquely...