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A Hamiltonian Power Move at the First Bank of the United States
It was a true Hamiltonian power move to locate the First Bank of the United States in a bustling commercial district of Philadelphia. In part, the theory was that it would project federal authority and presence in people's daily lives. The idea may have ultimately cost Hamilton his life, and even to this day there are heavy debates which are waged about the utility of the Federal Reserve. History is still being written on the subject of American finance in the global landscap

Andrew Cross
Jul 232 min read


Trading on Trust at the First U.S. Stock Exchange
The first U.S. stock exchange laid the groundwork for our national economy and financing network as we know it today.

Andrew Cross
Jul 92 min read


Declaration House: Where a Migraine May Have Helped Write History
The Declaration House at 7th and Market in Philadelphia is a reconstructed space where Thomas Jefferson, at just 33, drafted the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Despite battling severe headaches, he penned this monumental document by candlelight on a borrowed lap desk. Visitors can feel the intensity of his struggle and creativity, as the iconic phrase “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness” emerged from a small room filled with revolutionary fervor.

Andrew Cross
Jul 22 min read


Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier: Found Beneath a Parking Lot
At the heart of Washington Square Park lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution, a poignant memorial amidst the city's hustle. This site, surrounded by nature, invites reflection on its haunting past. In the 1950s, workers unearthed a mass grave from the Revolutionary War, revealing the resting place of countless unnamed soldiers. In 1957, a memorial was established, symbolizing their sacrifice.

Andrew Cross
Jun 252 min read


Slavery in the Shadow of Liberty at the President’s House Site
Slavery is a stain on humanity. The history of the American enterprise has to reconcile with this horrible atrocity just as much as any other nation. Despite being one of the first nations to abolish slavery, even some of America's most beloved figures held onto the vestiges of the horrors of slavery long after many care to admit. This uncomfortable truth must be dealt with, though, to truly understand our past in order to move on from it.

Andrew Cross
Jun 182 min read


Finding Franklin Court: The House That Vanished
Franklin Court is a unique historic site in Philadelphia which we visit on our walking tour. This site was once the home of Benjamin Franklin, but it was only rediscovered after many years of being totally lost.

Andrew Cross
Jun 42 min read


The Bicentennial Bell: The Other Liberty Bell
The Bicentennial Bell is a lesser known symbol of both American revolution and reconciliation - with Britain.

Andrew Cross
May 282 min read


Independence Hall, and the Flexibility of the American Constitution
Independence Hall is the location for where America's founding fathers developed and eventually ratified both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Something few people realize is that the amendment process built into our Constitution is one of the most novel and valuable components of the entire document as it pertains to the future of governing the nation.

Andrew Cross
May 72 min read
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