Experience the Constitutional Convention of 1787 at the White House Visitor Center

Portrait opportunity signing the U.S. Constitution (NPS Photo)

 

Visitors who stop at the White House Visitor Center on September 19, 2009 between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. will have the opportunity to play the role of signers of the United States Constitution. The White House Visitor Center is located near the White House on Pennsylvania Avenue between 14th and 15th Streets, NW, on the north side of the Commerce Department building.

The interactive program, called “We the People,” is suitable for all ages. During this program members of the audience will assume the role of “delegates” to the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and represent their states in a debate that will determine the fate of their new nation. A National Park Service interpreter will portray George Washington, who was President of the Constitutional Convention and lead the engaging debate. There will be two performances, 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. with each performance lasting 60 minutes. Seating is available on a first come first served basis.

After the debate, each “delegate” will have the opportunity to sign a giant copy of the United States Constitution with a quill pen. Participants will take home a facsimile copy of period currency from the state they represent and a copy of the Constitution. “Delegates” will be able to ring a Liberty Bell. The day’s events will also include games, crafts, and other activities throughout the day for both children and adults.

The National Park Service reminds all visitors that public parking is limited and visitors are encouraged to take METRO. The nearest stations are Metro Center and Federal Triangle, on the orange, blue and red lines. For more information about this event call 202-208-1631 or go to www.nps.gov/whho

 

Program Schedule:

9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Portrait opportunity signing the U.S. Constitution

10:00 a.m. to 10:20 a.m.
12:30 p.m. to 12:50 p.m.
A public audience with George Washington

9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
“The Pursuit of Happiness”- A Round Robin Tournament of 18th and 19th Century Games

9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
“Freedom’s Flame” - Roll a Beeswax Candle

9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Test your Congressional correspondence skill as well as your writing skills with a quill pen

11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.
“We the People” - An opportunity to wear a tri-cornered hat and play a role in one of this nation’s greatest dramas, the passage of the United States Constitution by the Constitutional Convention on September 17, 1787. (Program Duration: 60 Minutes, Space is limited).