Day 3 - The (Rainy) Streets of Philadelphia

If you read the day 2 post, I said that the forecast called for a chance of rain and thunderstorms and a high of 65. It never reached 65, but it did rain...a lot. We boarded the bus to downtown Philadelphia as a cluster of Thunderstorms rolled through, and when we reached Elizabeth, NJ at 7:30pm it was raining and about 38 degrees. The weather did not stop us from having a great time though and the students and chaperones persevered.

Our tour guides met us at the Constitution Center and took us around historic Philadelphia. Highlights of the walking tour include: Independence Hall, originally called the Pennsylvania State house, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed. The Liberty Bell, arguably the most recognized symbol of freedom in the US, and across the world. Elfreths Alley, the oldest continuously used residential street in the US where houses date back to 1702. The Betsy Ross house, where the American flag was created in secrecy. Christ Church, where many of the founding fathers worshiped, Ben Frankin's grave, and the US Mint, where coins are made. 

After putting on a few miles we ended our time in Philadelphia at the Constitution Center, where we say a powerful presentation on the meaning of the phrase "We The People" and explored the meaning behind our Constitution. There is also founders hall, which features life size statues of the founding fathers and how they may have been posited when the Constitution was being signed. 

SIDE NOTE: Robert Morris is one of the only founding fathers to sign the Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution. He also shares his name with my Grandfather. I may have tried to convince the kids that the Robert Morris in founders hall was my my Grandfather. 

We headed up the famous Jersey Turnpike to Elizabeth, NJ and our home base for the next 3 days. Wednesday we tour Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Top of the Rock and more. We have a busy couple of days ahead. Enjoy the pictures below and remember It is a GREAT day to be a Wildcat!

-- Mr. Yeska 

Group photo with Independence Hall in the background. 

Saying Hello to Robert Morris 

Elfreth's Alley - until 6 years ago this was a two way street

A true symbol of Freedom

Inside Independence Hall. This is where the Declaration was signed. 

Out Philadelphia tour guide, outside of Independence Hall.

More pictures to follow.