Independence National Historical Park – the Seat of American Democracy

In the heart of Philadelphia where the roots of American democracy first took hold, we celebrate everything our nation holds dear. Independence National Historical Park was born of the American Revolution—where visitors can walk in the footsteps of the Founding Fathers and experience the story of freedom come to life.

Table of Contents

• The Symbolism of the Liberty Bell
• A Walk Through History: Sites Within the Park
• Independence Hall: The Heart of the Park
• The Story Behind It All
• Meet the Artist: Rob Decker

Few ideas capture the hearts and imaginations of people around the world like liberty. For Americans, no symbol represents individual freedom quite like the Liberty Bell—a cracked yet powerful relic that resonates across generations.

The Symbolism of the Liberty Bell

Originally cast in Great Britain and recast in Philadelphia in 1753, the bell was installed in the Pennsylvania State House—what we now call Independence Hall. It rang to summon lawmakers to session, but over the centuries, it grew into something far greater. The Liberty Bell became an icon for abolitionists, Civil Rights leaders, suffragists, and many others fighting for justice and equality. Today, it continues to represent freedom not only for Americans but for people around the world.

A Walk Through History: Sites Within the Park

Covering 55 acres across 20 city blocks, Independence National Historical Park is more than just one landmark—it’s a vibrant, living museum of American history. Key sites include:

• Independence Hall – A UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated and signed.
• Congress Hall – The former home of the U.S. Congress from 1790 to 1800 when Philadelphia served as the nation's capital.
• Liberty Bell Center – The bell itself and an interpretive exhibit on its enduring legacy.
• Benjamin Franklin Museum – Explore the life and legacy of America’s most inventive founding father.
• National Constitution Center – A modern and interactive space dedicated to the U.S. Constitution.
• Independence Visitor Center – Your starting point for exploring it all.

Independence Hall: The Heart of the Park

The crown jewel of the park is Independence Hall, an elegant 18th-century Georgian building located in a historic square in Philadelphia’s oldest commercial district. This is where some of the most profound moments in American history took place—where our Founding Fathers conceived the principles of democracy, liberty, and citizen-led governance.

The surrounding district—once home to Benjamin Franklin—is full of historic churches, cemeteries, gardens, and cobblestone alleys. This is the landscape of early America, preserved for future generations to experience firsthand.

The Story Behind It All

Independence National Historical Park was officially created when President Harry S. Truman signed Public Law 795 on June 28, 1948. Administered by the National Park Service beginning in 1950, the park was officially established in 1956. During its formation, the city made great efforts to restore original 18th- and 19th-century structures while removing newer buildings to create a cohesive colonial-era atmosphere.

The result is a thoughtful blend of past and present: red-brick facades, cobbled walkways, pristine lawns, and beautifully landscaped pedestrian areas that encourage reflection and exploration. It's a place where history lives and breathes.

It took decades of collaboration among the City of Philadelphia, the National Park Service, and countless private citizens to preserve this national treasure. Today, millions of visitors come here annually to reflect, learn, and be inspired by the ideals that continue to shape our nation.

Click here to see the Independence National Historical Park poster.

Meet the Artist: Rob Decker

Rob Decker is a nationally recognized photographer and graphic artist who had the extraordinary opportunity to study under Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park at the age of 19. With over 50 years of experience exploring and photographing America’s most iconic landscapes, Rob brings both artistic mastery and deep reverence to every piece he creates.

Through his WPA-style artwork, Rob is preserving the legacy of the national parks and inspiring a new generation to explore and protect these cherished places. Each poster is printed on 100% recycled paper with soy-based inks, supporting sustainability and conservation efforts.

By purchasing a poster, you're not only celebrating America’s history and natural beauty—you’re supporting a mission to protect it for the future. Rob donates 10% of annual profits to organizations that support our national parks and public lands.

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