Before, during and after the American war for Independence,
Philadelphia played a key role.
The city served as a meeting place for several key meetings of the
Founding Fathers , the signing of the Declaration of Independence (July
2, 1776)
and the signing of the U.S. Constitution (1787).
In addition the city was the temporary capital of the USA while
Washington D.C. was under construction.
Front and back of the Pennsylvania State Seal from Mechanics div of
Watson state pattern spoon
On the back, Lady Liberty is shown with a sword and flag dominating a
lion who represents tyranny
all spoons shown are sterling.
During the era of souvenir spoon
collecting, two key aspects of the city were predominately shown.
The left leaning spoons depict the Liberty Bell and the right leaning
spoons depict Independence Hall
""Proclaim liberty throughout the land unto all the inhabitants thereof"
The bell is a major symbol of American independence and formerly
resided in the steeple of the Pennsylvania State House (Independence
Hall).
The crack occured the first time the bell was rung (British
manufacture) in 1752
It was recast by John Pass and John Stow whose names appear on it.
The bell primarily became a tourist attaction in the 1830's when
abolitionists renamed it the "Liberty Bell".
The bell cracked again when it was rung at the death of Chief Justice
John Marshall in 1835.
Completed in 1753, Independence hall at Chestnut St.and 5th St was used
as a colonial legislature for Pennsylvania.
Both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were
debated and adopted in this building.
Return to spoon exhibits index