President's House Site — Local services in Philadelphia

The President's House Site in Independence National Park in Philadelphia is much more than just a bare-bones white outline of George Washington's house that was there. There are videos, placards, and other information about the people who Washington enslaved and what he did to keep them that way. Very thoughtful exhibits. After reading all the signs and watching the video, I came away looking at Washington differently. He's not just the Revolutionary War hero on a white horse, he's also someone who fought hard to prevent people from having human rights. Washington's nine enslaved servants took care of most of his household, physical, and business needs. It would've been very hard for Washington to run the country without this free labor. Austin, Paris, Hercules, Christopher Sheels, Richmond, Giles, Oney Judge, Moll, and Joel Richardson were their names. When Oney Judge escaped, that really got under Washington's skin and he did all he could to try to capture her,...

It’s so special to have revisited The President's House in Philadelphia, especially after first seeing it during the excavation in 2007. At that time, the site was in the early stages of uncovering the foundations and artifacts that would reveal more about the lives of early presidents. Fast forward to today, and the exhibit is a powerful and thoughtful display of history. The completed exhibit now honors the site’s significance as the residence of George Washington and John Adams, as well as its deeper connections to the enslaved individuals who worked there. The museum’s presentation offers a more comprehensive understanding of Philadelphia’s role during the early years of the United States, making it even more impactful to visit after all these years. The interactive elements of the exhibit add a modern touch, bringing the history to life in a way that was hard to imagine back in 2007. It's incredible to see how far the preservation and exhibition of the...

The President’s House Site in Philadelphia is a powerful landmark that speaks volumes about the nation’s complex history. Located at the corner of 6th and Market Streets, this site marks where the first two U.S. Presidents, George Washington and John Adams, lived and shaped the early years of the United States. What makes this place truly remarkable is its focus on the paradox of liberty and enslavement. Although the original house was demolished in 1832, the foundations remain visible, offering a poignant reminder of the enslaved individuals who lived and worked there. The outdoor exhibits, including videos and text panels, provide a deep dive into the lives of those who were denied the freedoms promised by the nation’s founding ideals. Open daily and free to the public, the President’s House Site invites visitors to reflect on the past and consider the ongoing journey towards a more...