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Federal Hall
Financial District, NYC.
26 Wall Street was the site of New York City's 18th-century City Hall. Here, John Peter Zenger was jailed, tried, and acquitted of libel for exposing government corruption in his newspaper, marking an early victory for freedom of the press. City Hall hosted the Stamp Act Congress in October 1765, protesting "taxation without representation." After the American Revolution, the Continental Congress met at City Hall and, in 1787, adopted the Northwest Ordinance, establishing procedures for creating new states. The First Congress met in the new Federal Hall, wrote the Bill of Rights, and George Washington was inaugurated here as President on April 30, 1789. The current structure on the site was built as the Customs House, opening in 1842.
Looking south across Pine and Nassau Streets at the back of Federal Hall on a cloudy day.
The statue of George Washington at Federal Hall in Manhattan, New York City, stands on the spot where Washington was sworn in as the first President of the United States.
A special session of Congress on September 6, 2002. Then-Vice President Dick Cheney is seated on the left, and then-Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert is standing to the right.
Interior view of the Federal Hall in New York City.

Federal Hall

New York, United States of America

On April 30, 1789, a pivotal moment unfolded on Wall Street as George Washington took the oath of office, becoming the first President of the United States. This momentous event took place on a balcony of what was then New York's city hall, a building rich with historical significance. Before its transformation into Federal Hall, this structure played a crucial role in the early gatherings of colonial leaders, including the Stamp Act Congress, which paved the way for the American Revolution.

A Hub of Government Activity

After the Revolution, the building took on new importance as Federal Hall. For a brief period, it was the heart of the newly established government, housing Congress, the Supreme Court, and Executive Branch offices. However, this era came to an end when the national capital was moved to Philadelphia, leaving behind a legacy of historical moments within its walls.

The Transformation of Federal Hall

The present-day structure dates back to 1842 and has undergone several transformations. Initially serving as a Customs House, it later became the US Sub-Treasury, with its basement vaults safeguarding millions of dollars in gold and silver. Today, the building is under the care of the National Park Service and functions as a museum dedicated to preserving the rich history of the site.

Exploring the Museum

Visitors to Federal Hall can step back in time by taking guided tours or simply wandering through the halls. One of the highlights is the rotunda, an architectural marvel that captivates all who enter. Among the artifacts on display is the Bible used by Washington during his inauguration, a tangible link to the past that offers insight into the birth of a nation.

Source - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Hall
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