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Independence
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Much of our time focused on Benjamin Franklin, who spent most of his life in this city. His influence and contributions have played a huge part in making America what it is today. We enjoyed the Underground Museum in Franklin Court and learned much about this very interesting man. Other stops during our much-too-short visit (which began in the informative National Park Service visitor center) included the Portrait Gallery at the Second Bank of the United States, the New Hall Military Museum, Congress Hall and of course, Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Pavilion. This historic city is filled with the "ghosts" of men and women who believed that freedom was a goal worth any sacrifice. We, as citizens of the United States of America, are reaping the benefits of their courage and determination. The Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were formed and ratified here by men who, if captured by the British, could have been killed for treason. Benjamin Franklin was perceptive when he commented about the sun on the chair behind the speaker's table in the Assembly Room of Independence Hall. He had wondered whether it was a rising or setting sun. But after the Constitution was drafted, he declared that it was indeed a rising sun. |
) This
reproduction printing press in Franklin Court shows the way Benjamin
Franklin was able to retire at the age of 41--he was a very successful printer
and publisher. In addition to his skill with paper and ink, Harrison
learned that, "Ben Franklin was a diplomat, a statesman, an author,
inventor and scientist." |
The
Ben Franklin Book of Easy and Incredible Experiments: A Franklin Institute
Science Museum Book |
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Benjamin Franklin was a
great inventor. Besides discovering electricity from lightening,
he developed the lightening rod to protect homes from fire and his Franklin
stove burns wood much more efficiently than a fireplace. |
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At Franklin Court is this framework
representing the family home. It's construction was finished while Benjamin
was in Europe as an ambassador. He was a loving husband and father and was
torn by the political views of his son, who was imprisoned for supporting
Britain. Ben also received the heartbreaking news of his wife's death while
he was abroad. |
Poor
Richards Almanack |
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The
Liberty Bell |
 Recommend
a Face |
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For Younger Readers |
For Older Readers |
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Philadelphia:
the birthplace of our nation. Independence National Historical Park
encompasses more than anyone can experience in a single day, but we
touched on a few highlights and had a great learning time in this once-capital
of our country.
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A
More Perfect Union : The Story of Our Constitution
If
You Were There When They Signed the Constitution
Decision
in Philadelphia : The Constitutional Convention of 1787
The
Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States
: With Index (Bantam Classic)