Located in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia, PA is a two-story brick building known as Carpenters’ Hall. During Philadelphia’s early years, it was a popular meeting place. Built between the years of 1770 and 1774, Carpenters’ Hall earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places April 15, 1970 and is also part of Independence National Historical Park.
The beautiful landmark was designed by master builder Robert Smith and erected by the Carpenters’ Company. Formed in 1724, Carpenter’s Company is the oldest organization of builders in the United States. During the time of the company’s founding, the terms ‘carpenter,’ ‘architect’ and ‘builder’ were synonymous. Robert Smith was also chosen by Benjamin Franklin to design and build his residence.
The walls within this structure, set back from Chestnut Street, have some incredible stories to tell, if they were but able to speak. One of the most popular stories would no doubt be the meeting of the First Continental Congress of the United Colonies of North America. This meeting took place from September 5 – October 26, 1774 due to the fact the Pennsylvania State House (affectionately referred to as Independence Hall) was being used by the Provincial Assembly of Pennsylvania at the time. It was here Patrick Henry was heard to say, "I am not a Virginian, but an American." His better known statement was made a few months after the convention ended. "I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!" was part of a speech delivered in Richmond to the Virginia Convention.
The Continental Congress was not the only group to meet in Carpenters’ Hall. The Library Company of Philadelphia, founded by Benjamin Franklin and the American Philosophical Society were two more. During the Revolutionary War, Carpenters' Hall also served as a make-shift hospital where both American and British troops received care. In 1791, it became the headquarters of the First Bank of the United States. The Philadelphia Auction Market and the Society of Friends also added their names to the list of businesses and organizations which made use of the facility.
Today, Carpenters' Hall welcomes visitors near and far to wander the hallowed passages of this magnificent Georgian building, endowed with a rich American heritage.
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Comments
Very interesting article, Karen. Amazing that through the passage of time city fatherd in Philadelphia have valued the significance of Carpenter;s Hall. So glad to hear it's still standing and someday, I would like to check it out. Yes, if only those walls could talk; you gave me an idea of what they would say.Thanks.
Carpenters Hall is the place of the painting of the Founding Fathers in prayer, George Washington and many more kneeling in prayer, during the First Continental Congress when Benjamin Lincoln was the Secretary of the Congress was in the Year of Our Lord Jesus 1774, and Jesus was a carpenter. Nice connection of Founding Fathers, kneeling in Prayer and Jesus, the Savior and King of nations.
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