Old City Hall (Philadelphia) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Old City Hall
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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Old City Hall in Philadelphia, 2011
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 Location in Philadelphia
Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | Chestnut Street at 5th Street Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
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| Built | 1790–91 |
| Architect | David Evans, Jr. |
| Architectural style | Federal |
| Part of | Independence National Historical Park (ID66000683) |
| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
Old City Hall is a historic building in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It stands on Chestnut Street at 5th Street. This building is part of the famous Independence Hall complex. It was built between 1790 and 1791. The building was designed in the Federal style, a popular building design at that time. David Evans, Jr. was the architect who designed it.
Old City Hall was first planned to be the city hall for Philadelphia. However, it quickly became home to a very important part of the U.S. government.
Home of the Supreme Court
From 1791 to 1800, Old City Hall served as the first home of the U.S. Supreme Court. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States. It makes final decisions on legal cases.
During these years, three Chief Justices led the Supreme Court from this building:
They were important leaders who helped shape the early laws of the United States.
Why the Supreme Court Moved
The U.S. capital was in Philadelphia during these early years. But in 1800, the national capital moved to Washington, D.C.. Because of this move, the Supreme Court also moved to the new capital city.
Later Use as City Hall
After the Supreme Court left, Old City Hall finally became Philadelphia's City Hall. It served the city in this role until 1854. This means it was the center of local government for over 50 years.
Today, Old City Hall is a protected historic site. It is part of the Independence National Historical Park. The City of Philadelphia still owns the building. However, the National Park Service manages it. They help preserve it for everyone to visit and learn from.
See also
