| :: Philadelphia
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Attraction >Landmark
| Washington Square |
Address:
Between 6th & 7th St & Walnut & Locust St.
| Philadelphia |
Region:
Philadelphia
Rating:
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Description and Basic Information ::
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Washington Square is located in Philadelphia’s historic district, and has gone through many evolutionary steps to bring it to what it is today. Until the Revolutionary War, it was surrounded by woods on three sides and a prison on the fourth; later, it became the cemetery for those who did not survive the yellow fever epidemic of 1793 as well as burial ground for Revolutionary War soldiers from both sides of the war.
By the middle of the nineteenth century however, the square enjoyed some brighter times. It was the center of Philadelphia’s most prolific neighborhood, and also became the publishing center of the city.
These days, it’s back to a park, with lots of shade-giving trees and benches, as well as a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, this one commemorating the Colonial troops who gave their lives so that we might enjoy our independence. As with any of the plaza areas in the historic district, we recommend Washington Square as a place to cool your heels while you explore the other buildings, but it’s not really worthy of a special trip. This one might behoove you to visit, though, if only to stand on the spot where so much American history has taken place over the years. |
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:: Philadelphia :: |
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