Federal Hall National Memorial
Archaeology » Archaeological Monuments » Federal Hall National Memorial
Federal Hall National Memorial - United States
Federal Hall National Memorial is located in Wall Street,New York.
Federal Hall National Memorial monument was established on 1789.
Primary threats to Federal Hall National Memorial :

Federal Hall National Memorial, as it is now known, is operated by the National Park Service as a museum commemorating the historic events.




Historical facts of Federal Hall National Memorial :

  • Federal Hall National Memorial, located in New York City, holds great historical significance as the site where key events in the early history of the United States took place. As a symbol of the nation's birth and the center of political and financial activities, Federal Hall has played a crucial role in shaping American history. Let's delve into the historical facts surrounding Federal Hall National Memorial.
  • The original Federal Hall, constructed in 1700, served as New York's City Hall. It was a Georgian-style building located at the intersection of Wall Street and Nassau Street. The structure, designed by architect Peter Harrison, was an architectural marvel of its time.
  • In 1785, New York City sold the old City Hall building, and it was subsequently demolished. Recognizing the need for a central location for the federal government, the U.S. Congress purchased the site and commissioned the construction of a new Federal Hall as the first capitol building of the United States.
  • Federal Hall became the meeting place for the newly formed Congress and the site where important decisions were made. On April 30, 1789, in a momentous event, George Washington was inaugurated as the first President of the United States on the balcony of Federal Hall. This event marked the beginning of a new era in American history.
  • While Federal Hall initially served as the federal capitol, it underwent various changes over time. In 1790, the capital was moved to Philadelphia, and the building was converted into a U.S. Customs House and used for commercial purposes. However, its historical significance remained intact.
  • Sadly, the original Federal Hall was demolished in 1812 to make way for the construction of a new Customs House. Despite its physical absence, the legacy of Federal Hall continued to resonate in the annals of American history.
  • In 1842, efforts were made to commemorate the significance of Federal Hall. The New York Chamber of Commerce spearheaded the construction of a new building on the site, which would serve as a memorial to the original Federal Hall and the events that unfolded there.
  • The current Federal Hall National Memorial, designed by John Frazee, was completed in 1842. It adopted a Greek Revival architectural style, with its façade inspired by the Parthenon in Athens. The memorial's interior houses various exhibits and displays that highlight its historical significance.
  • Today, Federal Hall National Memorial stands as a symbol of democracy and the birthplace of American government. It serves as a reminder of the nation's founding principles and the ideals upon which it was built.
  • Visitors to Federal Hall National Memorial can explore the exhibits, view artifacts, and learn about the significant events that transpired within its walls. The site offers guided tours, educational programs, and public events that provide a deeper understanding of American history and the importance of civic engagement.
  • Federal Hall National Memorial, with its historical legacy and architectural grandeur, continues to attract visitors from around the world. It serves as a testament to the enduring ideals of liberty, democracy, and the pursuit of a more perfect union that lie at the heart of the American story.