Philadelphia stands as a city rich in history, with the echoes of the Founding Fathers resonating through its brick buildings.
The iconic landmarks of Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, alongside Congress Hall and Carpenter’s Hall, are testaments to the city’s pivotal role in American history.
However, these historic sites are surrounded by more contemporary structures, particularly the newly constructed Independence Mall, which contrasts sharply with the past.
Francesca Russello Ammon, a cultural historian from the University of Pennsylvania’s Stuart Weitzman School of Design, notes that early Philadelphia was characterized by a vibrant urban landscape filled with homes and a bustling commercial district, rather than grand parks.
The establishment of Independence National Historical Park in 1948, timed to coincide with the nation’s bicentennial, led to the demolition of many of the buildings that once made up this lively center, as Congress sought to preserve the city’s storied past.
The city’s deep historical roots trace back to significant events such as the birth of the U.S. Army, the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and its role as the nation’s first capital.
Interpretive park ranger Luke Hopely emphasizes that Philadelphia’s historical significance stemmed from its central location and the existence of essential facilities to support the Continental Congress during the Revolutionary era.
Originally known as the Pennsylvania State House, Independence Hall was utilized as the state’s capital before it became the site of the landmark declaration.
Hopely further elaborates that the building only acquired its lasting name after a visit from Marquis de Lafayette, showcasing the evolution of the city’s historical identity.
The recognition of Philadelphia’s rich history was not immediate; throughout much of the 19th century, many buildings maintained varied functions, diluting their historical significance until the 20th century.
Indeed, several of the colonial monuments now considered historically significant fell victim to demolition as the Philadelphia government continued to develop the area, prioritizing new constructions like the Jayne Building and the Drexel Building.
The focus on revitalizing Independence National Historical Park intensified post-World War II as public interest in the American Revolution surged ahead of the nation’s bicentennial celebration.
Congress authorized the park’s establishment, during which the city acquired existing buildings, including sites of historical importance such as Benjamin Franklin’s home.
The park’s development ignited spirited discussions among historians and architects, as some like Judge Edwin Lewis advocated for a comprehensive reconstruction of colonial-era Philadelphia through demolishing surrounding city blocks, while others, such as architect Charles Peterson, aimed for a more balanced preservation that integrated newer structures.
The encroaching presence of modern buildings overshadowing historical sites was seen as detrimental to the storytelling potential of Philadelphia’s past, prompting the push for significant changes to the landscape.
Ammon reflects on the loss engendered by the demolitions, noting that by 1969, over 143 dwellings, predominantly commercial and industrial buildings, were razed to create space for the park’s modern features, including a pavilion to house the Liberty Bell.
The demolitions stripped the city of a more nuanced representation of its historical development, something Ammon argues is essential for a comprehensive understanding of Philadelphia’s narrative.
Through her project, Preserving Society Hill, she scrutinizes the impact of demolished structures like the Jayne and Drexel Buildings, drawing attention to the consequences of prioritizing historical construction aesthetics over preserving much of the city’s historical fabric.
While Ammon recognizes the motivations behind the decisions of the time, she believes a more careful, selective approach to preservation could have achieved a better balance between historical recognition and urban development.
Today, the narrative of Philadelphia’s past can be conveyed with relative ease due to the park’s cohesive presentation, but it often omits the rich tapestry of stories inherent in structures that once thrived.
As Philadelphia continues to evolve, the preservation of its historical sites, alongside its more modern elements, remains a pressing issue for historians, urban planners, and community members alike.
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