Federal Hall National Memorial in New York City
I probably didn’t pay close enough attention to U.S. history in high school or college, because I was surprised to learn about the role New York City played in the founding of our nation. But a visit to Federal Hall National Memorial on Wall Street in New York City brought me up to speed.
Here’s what you can expect and why you should include Federal Hall National Memorial during your trip to the Big Apple – besides the fact that it’s free to visit.
And if you’re looking for other things to do in New York City, read this.
Site of George Washington’s Inauguration in 1789
Robert R. Livingston, the Chancellor of New York, administered the oath of office to George Washington during his inauguration as the first president of the newly-formed United States on April 30, 1789. The ceremony took place on this site, which was then considered the U.S. Capitol.
The Bible, printed in 1767 as the Altar Bible of St. John’s Masonic Lodge, No. 1, used by George Washington for his inauguration is on display at Federal Hall. Other presidents used this same bible for their inaugurations, including:
- George H.W. Bush (1981-1989)
- Jimmy Carter (1977-1981)
- Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953-1961)
- Warren G. Harding (1921-1923)
If you’re visiting Federal Hall specifically to see the George Washington Bible, call ahead – it’s only on display when the Masonic Lodge isn’t using it.
Federal Hall was also the site of the first Congress, Supreme Court and Executive Branch of government. So you can learn about each of those branches of government during your visit.
The original Federal Hall was torn down in 1812, and the current building completed in 1842. Although it was originally a Customs House, it later became the Federal Hall National Memorial.
Don’t miss the chance to see the slab of stone where George Washington stood during his inauguration. It’s in the main rotunda.
The Trial of John Peter Zanger
John Peter Zenger was arrested and kept in jail for an entire year in 1735, accused of printing libelous accusations against New York Governor William Cosby. You may note that the early 1700s were before America declared their independence, and well before the writing of the U.S. Constitution.
The outcome of the trial would influence the writing of the First Amendment of the Constitution, which is:
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
The trial took place on the site where Federal Hall National Memorial now stands. You can learn more about the trial of John Peter Zanger during your visit.
Federal Treasury and Alexander Hamilton
When the operations of the Custom House moved from the building in 1862, the basement became a sub-treasury. Be sure to explore parts of the basement, including the vault rooms. Think of the millions of dollars of gold and silver kept in those rooms in the mid-1800s.
On the upper floor of Federal Hall, on the balcony of the rotunda, learn about Alexander Hamilton. He’s the guy shot by Aaron Burr in the famous duel.
I wasn’t exactly sure why they had a display about him at Federal Hall. But after listening to the soundtrack to Hamilton (the Broadway musical), I learned about his role in founding the U.S. Treasury and Federal Reserve.
Discover New York Harbor Visitor Information Center
If you want to learn about other activities around New York City, check out the Discover New York Harbor Visitor Information Center. There are displays about spots in the Big Apple, along with brochures and maps.
Become a Junior Ranger Program. Pick up the booklet and complete the pages as you wander the rooms of Federal Hall.
The Details
Address: 26 Wall Street, New York, NY 10005
Cost: Admission is FREE.
Hours: Federal Hall National Memorial is open Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s closed on Sunday, as well as Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Plan on about 30 minutes for your visit.
Website: https://www.nps.gov/feha/index.htm
Phone: (212) 825-6990
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