President's House Site
Site of the first US executive mansion, revealing the complex history of presidents and enslaved people.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
President's House Site
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Site of the first US executive mansion, revealing the complex history of presidents and enslaved people.
"A powerful and thought-provoking free exhibit on early American history and slavery."
⏳ Allow Time for Reflection
The site offers a complex history; take time to absorb the stories and consider the dual narratives presented.
🎧 Use Audio/Visual Aids
The videos and placards are key to understanding the full story, especially the experiences of enslaved people.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Excavated Foundations
Original site of the mansion
See the unearthed cellars and remnants of the house where Presidents Washington and Adams resided.
Ona Judge Exhibit
Near Independence Hall
Learn the remarkable story of Ona Judge, an enslaved woman who escaped from George Washington's household.
Interactive Displays
Exhibit area
Engaging videos and placards that bring to life the experiences of both presidents and the enslaved.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Site's Dual Nature
Free Admission, Profound Impact
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow Time for Reflection
The site offers a complex history; take time to absorb the stories and consider the dual narratives presented.
🎧 Use Audio/Visual Aids
The videos and placards are key to understanding the full story, especially the experiences of enslaved people.
🚶♀️ Combine with Independence Hall
Located near Independence Hall, it's an easy addition to a historical walking tour of the area.
🤔 Consider the 'Never Caught' Context
Reading 'Never Caught' beforehand enhances the visceral experience of standing on these grounds.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow Time for Reflection
The site offers a complex history; take time to absorb the stories and consider the dual narratives presented.
🎧 Use Audio/Visual Aids
The videos and placards are key to understanding the full story, especially the experiences of enslaved people.
🚶♀️ Combine with Independence Hall
Located near Independence Hall, it's an easy addition to a historical walking tour of the area.
🤔 Consider the 'Never Caught' Context
Reading 'Never Caught' beforehand enhances the visceral experience of standing on these grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the President's House Site to be a thought-provoking and impactful free exhibit, particularly for its honest portrayal of the enslaved individuals who lived there alongside Presidents Washington and Adams. While some describe the display as simple, many are moved by the historical juxtapositions and the story of Ona Judge. It's a site that encourages deep reflection on early American history.
"The President's House in Philadelphia, which served as the executive mansion for Presidents Washington and Adams, was eventually demolished. After serving as a hotel and commercial buildings, it was largely torn down in 1951 to make way for Independence Mall. While the building no longer exists, the site is now a commemorative exhibition and memorial site.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1790-1800:
The house was rented to the city of Philadelphia for use as the President's residence during the time when Philadelphia was the temporary capital of the United States.
1800:
After Presidents Adams and Washington left, the house was converted into Francis's Union Hotel, which eventually failed.
1832:
The property was purchased and the house was significantly altered, becoming a row of commercial buildings, including three narrow stores owned by Nathaniel Burt."
Kail Parmar
"Having read 'Never Caught', this was a truly visceral experience. To stand on the same grounds as the 1st president of the supposedly *free United States, where he schemed to keep his slaves from being manumitted by Philadelphia's abolitionist laws. Most of the stories, videos and placards focused on these facts. Really thought provoking on the juxtaposition between the 1st leader of the free world but a slaver in his home."
Malcolm Earhart
"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 site have come."
Marisa Balletti-Lavoie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The President's House Site is located at 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, right next to Independence Hall. It's easily accessible by public transportation, including SEPTA buses and the Market-Frankford Line. Many visitors walk to the site as part of exploring the historic district.
While there isn't dedicated parking at the site itself, several parking garages are available within walking distance in the Old City and Society Hill neighborhoods. Consider using services like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to find and book parking in advance.
Yes, many historical walking tours of Philadelphia include a stop at the President's House Site. These tours often provide additional context and historical insights that enhance the visitor experience.
The President's House Site is an outdoor exhibit and is generally accessible during park hours, which typically align with Independence National Historical Park hours. It's best to check the official National Park Service website for the most current hours.
The outdoor exhibit area is generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The excavated foundations are visible from pathways designed for easy navigation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the President's House Site is completely free. It's part of Independence National Historical Park and is open to the public without charge.
There is no admission fee. The site is a free public exhibit dedicated to sharing a crucial part of American history.
Tickets are not required as the site is free to visit. You can simply walk up and explore the exhibit at your own pace during park hours.
While the site itself is an ongoing exhibit, the National Park Service occasionally hosts ranger talks or special programs related to its history. Check the Independence National Historical Park schedule for any upcoming events.
The best way to experience it is to read the placards, watch the videos, and take time to reflect on the historical context, especially regarding the enslaved individuals.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can see the excavated foundations of the original mansion, exhibits detailing the lives of Presidents Washington and Adams, and a powerful display about the enslaved people who lived and worked there, including Ona Judge.
Yes, the site features interactive elements such as videos and informative placards that bring the history to life and encourage engagement with the complex narratives.
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to an hour at the site, depending on how much time they dedicate to watching the videos and reading the exhibits.
It was the first executive mansion of the United States, housing Presidents George Washington and John Adams. Crucially, it also reveals the history of the enslaved individuals held by Washington, highlighting a significant contradiction in early American ideals.
Restrooms are available nearby within Independence National Historical Park. There are no dedicated facilities directly at the outdoor exhibit itself.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted at the President's House Site for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography restrictions for certain exhibits or videos.
The excavated foundations offer a unique historical perspective. The exhibit panels and the overall setting near Independence Hall also provide good photographic moments.
While generally allowed, avoid flash photography if it might disturb other visitors or if specific displays indicate otherwise. Always respect the solemn nature of the site.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the exhibits and historical elements. If you prefer more detail, a mirrorless or DSLR camera can also be used.
Short personal videos are usually permitted, but commercial filming may require special permits. Check with the National Park Service if you plan extensive video recording.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting with older children who can engage with the historical narratives. The excavated foundations can spark curiosity about how people lived in the past. It's a good opportunity to discuss themes of freedom, fairness, and the importance of understanding different perspectives in history. Combine this visit with other nearby historical sites like Independence Hall for a more comprehensive historical outing.
🤔 History Buffs & Students
Students and history enthusiasts will appreciate the nuanced storytelling, which moves beyond a simple celebration of presidential achievements to explore the lives of all who inhabited the space. The exhibit on Ona Judge is particularly noteworthy for its focus on the experiences of enslaved individuals. Visiting this site can significantly deepen one's understanding of the complexities of early American society and the ongoing legacy of slavery.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
This site provides a profound historical encounter without any cost. You can spend time exploring the exhibits and reflecting on the narratives presented. It's a perfect addition to a day of exploring other free attractions in the area, such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Complex Legacy of Presidents' Residence
However, the site's narrative extends far beyond the presidents themselves. A significant and often overlooked aspect is the presence of enslaved individuals who lived and worked within the President's House. The exhibit powerfully highlights their stories, particularly that of Ona Judge, who escaped from George Washington's household. This dual narrative forces visitors to confront the profound contradictions of the era – the pursuit of liberty alongside the institution of slavery. The interactive displays and videos are designed to convey this complex history, prompting reflection on the sacrifices and struggles that underpinned the nation's founding.
Visiting the President's House Site is more than just a historical tour; it's an opportunity for critical engagement with American history. The free admission makes it an accessible yet deeply moving experience. Many visitors find the juxtaposition of presidential grandeur and the harsh realities of slavery to be particularly thought-provoking, offering a more nuanced understanding of the nation's origins.
Understanding the Ona Judge Exhibit
The exhibit meticulously details Ona Judge's life, her escape from Philadelphia in 1796, and her subsequent life in New Hampshire, where she lived under the constant threat of recapture. It serves as a vital reminder that the 'freedom' celebrated by the new nation was not extended to all. The videos and interpretive panels at the site bring her story to life, emphasizing her agency and determination.
This exhibit is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the President's House Site. It challenges visitors to look beyond the prominent figures of the presidency and acknowledge the contributions and suffering of those who were enslaved. It's a powerful narrative that underscores the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality in America.
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