Last updated: October 26, 2026
Article
Join or Die Sculpture
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The sculpture will be located near the corner of 5th and Chestnut Streets on Independence Mall.
Project Overview
A new feature is coming to the Liberty Bell Center Block of Independence Mall. The National Park Service is pleased to announce plans for the installation of a large stone sculpture inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s iconic 1754 “JOIN, OR DIE” cartoon—one of the earliest political cartoons in American history, calling for unity among the colonies.
This 46-foot-long sculpture will feature segmented pieces of a snake representing the original colonies. The sculpture will be accompanied by interpretive panels exploring themes of unity, cooperation and independence.
The project is being funded by the park’s philanthropic partner, Independence Historical Trust, in support of the National Park Service’s mission to preserve and interpret the nation’s history. The National Park Service looks forward to sharing updates as the project moves toward construction.
Timeline
Groundbreaking is anticipated in early 2027, with construction and installation to follow. The project schedule and anticipated completion date will be refined as planning progresses.
A new feature is coming to the Liberty Bell Center Block of Independence Mall. The National Park Service is pleased to announce plans for the installation of a large stone sculpture inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s iconic 1754 “JOIN, OR DIE” cartoon—one of the earliest political cartoons in American history, calling for unity among the colonies.
This 46-foot-long sculpture will feature segmented pieces of a snake representing the original colonies. The sculpture will be accompanied by interpretive panels exploring themes of unity, cooperation and independence.
The project is being funded by the park’s philanthropic partner, Independence Historical Trust, in support of the National Park Service’s mission to preserve and interpret the nation’s history. The National Park Service looks forward to sharing updates as the project moves toward construction.
Timeline
Groundbreaking is anticipated in early 2027, with construction and installation to follow. The project schedule and anticipated completion date will be refined as planning progresses.