If you are visiting Philadelphia in anticipation of the birth of the U.S., a trip to Independence Hall is a must. That historic building is loaded with 18th century artifacts as well as gorgeous displays and exhibits of some of the deepest history of our nation. But if you want to experience some of the true foundations around the initial conversations of self-governance free from the control of Monarchy that would lead to the country that we know today right here in Philadelphia, one must experience one block south on Chestnut Street at our very own Carpenter’s Hall.
Michael Thomas Leibrandt explains.
A 1905 postcard of Carpenters' Hall, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Just over 250 years ago — concluded 51 days of deliberation by the first US Continental Congress at Carpenter’s Hall on Chestnut Street. The building itself — had come from another important vote. On January 1, 1770 — the Carpenter’s Company voted to construct the building. The design was the brain-child of one of the most talented architects in the colonies at the time — but unfortunately — Robert Smith’s career would tragically be cut extremely short. Smith was killed while building fortifications along the coast of the Delaware River in order to protect Philadelphia against the English fleet in 1777. The Georgian-style Carpenter’s Hall would be one of his last projects still surviving to this day.
The Carpenter’s Company formed in 1724 would be in existence for nearly forty-five years before they had a building of their own in proximity to Benjamin Franklin’s house. The guild of master builders would be the first of its kind in the colonies — based upon the Worshipful Company of Carpenters of London. The building that they would construct would end up being the birthplace of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
The First Continental Congress was convened in the very same Carpenter’s Hall between September 5th, 1774 until October 26, 1774. Two hundred and fifty-one years ago this fall — the first Continental Congress actually changed leadership — with Henry Middleton replacing the sick Peyton Randolph. The assembly included representation from only twelve colonies as Georgia was not represented.
The First Continental Congress paved the way for America’s path to Independence. Among its accomplishments was the creation of the original Declaration of Rights and Grievances which detailed the rights of colonists as well as an Articles of Association which boycotted goods from England and they even petitioned King George III. Most importantly — it resolved to meet again in a year if the English Intolerable Acts were not repealed by that point. A few years later — Carpenter’s Hall would serve as a hospital during the American Revolution.
The mystic of Carpenter’s Hall can still be felt by tourists today — as is its importance to the birth of the U.S. It’s marvelous architecture and 18th century cupola stands as a monument to its nearly 255 years of existence. Amid a 2023 project in the historic hall — remains of oysters were uncovered in the basement. It turns out — while planning for independence — one works up quite an appetite. It turns out that the long days were well worth it.
Michael Thomas Leibrandt lives and works in Abington Township, PA.
