Special Tour: Early Financial History of Philadelphia and the Future of the First Bank of the US

As the financial epicenter of the newly formed United State government, Philadelphia’s banks played a leading role in paying for supplies and later debts from the Revolutionary War and funding the War of 1812. Banks provided loans to operate businesses and construct buildings, roads, and other infrastructure to both commercial businesses, governments and  individuals.  

Learn about prominent Philadelphians Robert Morris, Stephen Girard, and Nicholas Biddle who were highly involved in forming and promoting national financial policies from 1770’s to the 1860’s.  

This tour will discuss the role of United State chartered national banks and Pennsylvania chartered state banks involved in the complex financial transactions that existed before there was a uniform national currency established by the National Bank Act of 1864 and signed into law by Abraham Lincoln.

This tour will end at the First Bank of the US followed by a presentation by the Independence Historical Trust who will share plans for the new exhibits. The program will conclude with a Q&A and refreshments. 

Meet at the center of Welcome Park at 129 Sansom Walk, Philadelphia, PA 19106.

This program is created in partnership with the Independence Historical Trust. Independence Historical Trust, a 501(c) 3, is a philanthropic organization that partners with Independence National Historical Park, the national park that protects, preserves and interprets Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and the 54 plus historical acres located in the City of Philadelphia. 

Preservation Alliance walking tours utilize an audio system that transmits from a headset worn by the guide to earpieces worn by tour attendees. The equipment is thoroughly sanitized before and after each use. Tour attendees can also plug in their personal headsets or earbuds that use a standard headphone jack (Not compatible with Bluetooth or Apple earphones).

Space is limited. Advance registration required.

A limited number of $2 tickets are available for PA ACCESS or Art-Reach ACCESS card holders. Please email us at tours@preservationalliance.com for discount.

Email us at tours@preservationalliance.com for any questions or join the waitlist for a sold out tour!