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Federal Hall National MemorialFederal Hall National Memorial
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The Birthplace of American Government

Here on Wall Street, George Washington took the oath of office as our first President, and this site was home to the first Congress, Supreme Court, and Executive Branch offices. The current structure, a Customs House, later served as part of the US Sub-Treasury. Now, the building serves as a museum and memorial to our first President and the beginnings of the United States of America.

 

Exhibits

The following exhibits explore the links between Federal Hall, New York, and America's history.

 
Matthew Brady portrait of Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln in New York

February 12, 2009 marks the bicentennial of the birth of Abraham Lincoln. In honor of this occasion, "Abraham Lincoln in New York", a special exhibit presented by The Rail Splitter — a national organization of Lincoln scholars — will showcase artifacts from public and private collections. Artifacts on display will range from photographs to manuscripts to a colorful assortment of political memorabilia from Lincoln’s 1860 and 1864 presidential campaigns, many never seen before in public. The exhibition will be on display from February 9 through June 30. For more information, go to www.lincolninnewyork.com.

Extended Evening

Federal Hall will hold extended hours on Thursday, June 25 until 8 p.m. Please come by and view this special exhibit of important letters, documents, and artifacts telling the story of Abraham Lincoln and his times.

Courtesy of The Rail Splitter

 
Fife and Drums

A Revolutionary Moment

On July 9, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was first read in the city of New York. Join the National Park Service, the staff of the Van Cortlandt House Museum, and the Fifes & Drums of the Old Barracks of Trenton, N.J., for a commemoration of this momentous event in American history at Federal Hall National Memorial on July 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Click here for a printable flyer.

Noon: Reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps of Federal Hall
Immediately following: Presentation of the British reaction to the Declaration.

2 p.m.: "Revolutionary War New York" walking tour -- visit www.nyharborparks.org for details.

Ongoing:

  • National Archives and Record Administration will showcase and interpret documents relevant to the American Revolution.
  • Self-guided walking tour "Washington’s New York" 
 
Painting of Alexander Hamilton

New York's Own: Alexander Hamilton and Hamilton Grange

Hamilton Grange National Memorial is temporarily closed due to restoration and relocation. However, visitors have the opportunity to view select exhibits formerly on display at Hamilton Grange.

Alexander Hamilton had a very close relationship with New York City. He was a student at Kings College (now Columbia University), participated in the Battle of New York in 1776, commanded New York troops at Yorktown, practiced law in the City, and served as Secretary of the Treasury when New York was the Nation's capital. In 1804, Hamilton died in New York City, as a result of wounds received in a duel with Aaron Burr. He is buried one block from Federal Hall in Trinity Churchyard.
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Write to

Federal Hall National Memorial
26 Wall Street
New York, NY 10005

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Services
(212) 825-6990

Media Relations
(212) 668-2251

Fax

(212) 668-2899

Climate

New York winters can be hard, with extreme cold, winds, and snowfall. Summers are hot and humid. Spring and Fall are mild and the best time of year to travel around the city.
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The Roberto Clemente Bridge  

Did You Know?
Pittsburgh, PA-located within Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area- has more bridges than any other city in the world except Venice, Italy.

Last Updated: June 19, 2009 at 12:05 EST