Drafting a Revolution
- Independence Hall (6th and Chestnut Streets): Jefferson's most profound legacy is his authorship of the Declaration of Independence. Tour the room where it was debated and signed, immersing yourself in the nation's birth.
- Graff House (7th and Market Streets): Jefferson rented rooms in this brick house in 1776 while drafting the Declaration of Independence painstakingly. A plaque marks the spot.
- American Philosophical Society (104 South Fifth Street): This hub of intellectual exchange, founded by Benjamin Franklin, was frequented by Jefferson. He even served as its president for a time.
The Diplomat and Statesman
- City Tavern (138 S 2nd Street): Jefferson, renowned for his dinner parties, likely dined here among fellow politicians, discussing the future of the fledgling United States.
- Congress Hall (6th and Chestnut Streets): While not a member of Congress during his Philadelphia years, Jefferson visited this building often when he served as the first Secretary of State under President Washington.
The Mind of Jefferson
- Library Company of Philadelphia (1314 Locust St): Jefferson visited this extensive library to expand his understanding of various subjects with his voracious appetite for knowledge.
- Masonic Temple (1 N Broad Street): Jefferson was a Freemason and may have attended meetings of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, which has been located here since 1873. The building's ornate architecture reflects the Enlightenment ideals he admired.
Beyond the Landmarks
- Monticello-Inspired Architecture: Look for buildings designed in the neoclassical style Jefferson championed, like the Second Bank of the United States (420 Chestnut Street).
- Jefferson's Inventions: Visit museums like the Franklin Institute to see devices that reflect his scientific and inventive spirit.
Important Notes
- Opening hours: Always check individual sites for operating times.
- Guided Tours: Specialized Jefferson-focused tours offer deeper context.
- Historical Complexity: Remember Jefferson's contradictory legacy– while a champion of liberty, he also enslaved hundreds of individuals.
