National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

Independence National Historical Park Long-Range Interpretive Plan Cover Photo: The Liberty Bell from inside the Liberty Bell Center, with Independence Hall in the background. Photo Credits: Independence National Historical Park, Top Gun Corporate Photography, unless otherwise noted. Long-Range Interpretive Plan Independence National Historical Park

Prepared by:

Independence National Historical Park Interpretation and Visitor Services

National Park Service Harpers Ferry Center Interpretive Planning – December 2007 There is nothing more common than to confound the terms of the American revolution with those of the late American war. The American war is over; but this is far from being the case with the American revolution.

Benjamin Rush January, 1787 Columbia Magazine article urging a new central government Table of Contents

Message from the Superintendent 1 Comprehensive Interpretive Planning 3

Part One: The Foundation for Interpretive Planning 5 Park Legislation and Purpose 7 Park Significance 8 Mission, Goals, and Vision Statement 10 The Northeast Region Visitor Services Strategy 12 Accessibility 13 Park Interpretive Themes 14 Desired Visitor Experience 16 Issues and Challenges Affecting Interpretation 18 Visitor Profiles and Targeted Audiences 20 ExistingTable of Conditions Contents 22

Part Two: Actions 31 The Planning Process 33 Goals for Interpretive Planning 34 Action Plan over the Next 5-7 Years 36 Research and Collection Needs 40 Staffing and Training Needs 41 Implementation Plan 42 Planning Team 44 Park Theme Matrix 47 Opened in 2001, the Independence Visitor Center is a partnership between the National Park Service and the non-profit Independence Visitor Center Corporation, providing park, city and regional information. Photo courtesy of the Independence Visitor Center Corporation.

Superintendent Dennis Reidenbach helps children make connections to park stories in the Independence Park Institute learning spaces. Message from the Superintendent

Independence National Historical Park has witnessed major changes in the first years of the 21st century. Independence Mall has been redesigned and is now home to impressive new public buildings including: the Independence Visitor Center in 2001, the National Constitution Center in 2003, and the Liberty Bell Center in 2003. The President’s House Site outdoor exhibits and the Mall landscape projects are expected to be completed in 2009. The east end of the park is now anchored by the Independence Living History Center and the Independence Park Institute. These major new facilities and visitor services offer us a unique opportunity to revitalize the interpretation of America’s premier historical park.

The Long-Range Interpretive Plan planning process assesses where we are and where we hope to be in the near future. Part One of this document defines the new park themes, describes the desired visitor experience, lists issues and challenges, and identifies the park’s audience. Part Two of the document lists specific actions the park will take to meet our vision for the future of interpretation and visitor services.

Independence National Historical Park is supported through partnerships with many local organizations. The park’s interpretive staff engaged hundreds of park staff and partners throughout the planning process. This collaborative effort produced a more comprehensive and inclusive look at how we will interpret America’s birthplace to tens of millions of park visitors in the future.

I hope you will take time to review this important plan and visit the new Independence National Historical Park.

Sincerely,

Dennis R. Reidenbach Superintendent Independence National Historical Park

1 Visitors have been coming to Philadelphia for more than 200 years as seen in this engraving by William Birch in 1800. The comprehensive interpretive planning process helps the park and its partners better serve its future visitor needs.

2 Comprehensive Interpretive Planning

The National Park Service is composed of specific elements, interpretive goals of the park. The (NPS) has a unified planning good planning is customized to process that develops the LRIP approach for interpretation meet an individual park’s needs defines realistic strategies and and education. This approach and situations. The CIP is not actions that work toward achieve- combines planning for inter- a recipe; rather it is a guide to ment of the interpretive goals. pretive media, personal ser- effective, goal-driven planning. vices, and education programs. While it considers past interpre- The Annual Implementation The Comprehensive Interpre- tive programming, it is primarily Plan and Interpretive Database tive Planning (CIP) process is a forward-looking document that The completed LRIP is a critical the basic planning document concentrates on actions needed to part of the CIP, but it does not for interpretation and was create or sustain a vigorous and stand alone. Actions in the LRIP incorporated into NPS guide- effective interpretive program for are divided into annual, achievable lines in 1995. Responsibility the future. All CIPs have these steps and reproduced in the An- for accomplishing the CIP three components: the Long- nual Implementation Plan (AIP), process lies with each park’s Range Interpretive Plan (LRIP), the second component of the CIP. superintendent. a series of Annual Implementation Creating a series of these AIPs that Plans (AIP) and an Interpretive implement the recommendations What is a Comprehensive Database (ID). outlined in the LRIP simplifies Interpretive Plan? the park’s annual planning. The The CIP process helps parks What is a Long-Range third component of the CIP is the make choices, and this planning Interpretive Plan? Interpretive Database (ID), an document is written to provide The heart of the CIP is the Long- ongoing compilation of informa- guidance to park staff. It helps Range Interpretive Plan (LRIP). tion, reports, bibliographies, plans, them decide what their objectives The LRIP defines the overall and inventories that document the are, who their audiences are, and vision and long-term (5-7 years) LRIP’s ongoing progress. what mix of media and personal services to use. Although the CIP as defined in Director’s Order 6

National Park Service specialists provided valuable help to the park staff in creating the Long Range Interpretive Plan.

3 4 Part One: The Foundation for Interpretive Planning

Well done is better than well said.

Ben Franklin 1737 Poor Richard’s Almanac

5 6 Park Legislation and Purpose

Park Legislation The Constitution Heritage Act Park Purpose Each Unit of the National Park (Public Law 100-433) of 1988 A park purpose statement sum- System is created by Congress authorized the establishment of marizes the reasons a park is and the President of the United a National Center for the United included in the National Park States. The following pieces States Constitution. System. It is derived from the of legislation created Indepen- legislation that created both dence National Historical Park. In 1997, Congress passed H.R. the National Park Service and 1635 to establish the National Un- a specific park. On June 28, 1948, Congress derground Network to Freedom passed Public Law 795, H.R. “to establish within the United The park’s 1995 General Manage- 5053, that established Indepen- States National Park Service the ment Plan states that “The pur- dence National Historical Park National Underground Railroad pose of Independence National (NHP) “...for the purpose of Network to Freedom program, and Historical Park is to preserve its preserving for the benefit of the for other purposes. Each park will stories, buildings and artifacts as American people as a national identify its own sites that help to a source of inspiration for visitors historical park certain histori- tell the dramatic story of fugitives to learn more about the ideas and cal structures and properties of from slavery and those who assist- ideals that led to the American outstanding national significance ed them in their flight to freedom.” Revolution and the founding and located in Philadelphia, Penn- growth of the United States.” sylvania, and associated with The Gateway Visitor Center Autho- the American Revolution and rization Act (Public Law 106-131) the founding and growth of the of 1999 authorized the city and United States, the Secretary of the regional mission of the Indepen- Interior is authorized…such dence Visitor Center. park to be fully established as ‘the Independence National Historical Park’...”

On September 17, 1787, Benjamin Franklin saw the sun carved on the back of Wash- ington’s chair as a “Rising Sun” symboliz- ing his hopes for our new government and its future growth.

7 Park Significance

Statements of significance de- scribe a park’s distinctive natu- ral, cultural, and recreational resources and values that are the factual rationale for na- tional recognition of the site. The significance statements listed below for Independence National Historical Park were developed for the park’s Gen- eral Management Plan of 1995.

Independence National Historical Park is nationally and internation- ally significant for many reasons. The park includes a World Heri- The Assembly Room of Independence Hall, where our nation’s founders debated and signed the tage Site (Independence Hall), and Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. seven national historic landmarks (American Philosophical Society • It was the site where the • It was where the United States Hall, Carpenters’ Hall, Christ founding documents of the Congress met from 1790 to 1800 Church, Deshler-Morris House, United States of America were adding the Bill of Rights to the First Bank, Merchants’ Exchange debated and signed. Constitution and the first new Building, and Second Bank). The states to the union (Vermont, park is listed on the National • It includes the site of the Kentucky, and Tennessee). Register of Historic Places and the home of Benjamin Franklin, Underground Railroad Network who personified the spirit, ideals, • It is the site of the First and to Freedom. The park’s original curiosities, and ingenuity of Second Banks of the United States structures and artifacts are the 18th-century America. which set monetary policy and tangible remains of some of the regulated U.S. currency. most momentous events to shape • It is the site of the Tomb of the this country and the world. Unknown Soldier of the American • It was the site of efforts to Revolution, and the 18th-century establish treaties with various Independence National burial ground for other soldiers, Indian nations, such as the Historical Park is nationally Yellow Fever victims, and Mohawk nation led by Chief significant because: African-Americans. Joseph Brant/Thayendanegea.

• It was the site of meetings of • It was the site of the presidencies • It was the site of the first the first and second Continental of George Washington (1790-1797) decisions of the United States Congresses, which gave direction and John Adams (1797-1800) Supreme Court. to the American Revolution and which established precedents and the confederation government. witnessed, with Adams’ inaugura- • It is the place where the 1793 tion, the first peaceful transfer of Fugitive Slave Act was passed and executive power in the western was signed into law by our first world. President, George Washington. 8 • Independence Hall was the nation’s capital under the First and • The park, especially the area scene of trials in Federal District Second Continental Congresses, near the Liberty Bell Center, is a Court related to the Fugitive Slave the Confederation Congress, and place where citizens invoke their Act of 1850. the United States Congress. rights under the Constitution to public assembly and free speech. • Independence Square was the • Independence Hall was the scene of activity related to aboli- seat of the state government in • The park’s designed cultural tion, such as Frederick Douglass’s the late 18th century, where the landscape is a clean, safe, and famous 1844 speech while a Pennsylvania State Constitution open green space in the heart of fugitive slave, and other abolition was adopted. the urban environment; Indepen- society meetings. dence Square has been an open • Philadelphia was a center in the public green since 1735. • Independence Square was Underground Railroad network, the site of the first public reading in part due to the large free black • The park is a pioneer in forg- of the “Women’s Declaration of population resulting from the ing agreements and partnerships Rights...” by Susan B. Anthony Pennsylvania Gradual Abolition to jointly preserve historic sites urging women’s suffrage on Act of 1780. which are not owned by the July 4, 1876. National Park Service, and in • Many park buildings date to working with outside scholars • The park represents the found- the colonial period of Pennsylva- and others to develop historical ing ideals of the nation and is a nia and Philadelphia, which were narratives to interpret these sites. national and international symbol founded on principles of religious of democracy and liberty. and intellectual tolerance that • The park is significant in the provided a supportive atmosphere history and practice of historic • The park, with its affiliated and model for the revolutionary preservation in America. Many Houses of Worship, represents ideas of the 1770s. of the practices that are now stan- the spirit of religious diversity dard in preservation were devel- and tolerance beginning with • The park is an integral part of oped at Independence National William Penn and codified in the Philadelphia—symbolically, histor- Historical Park. Bill of Rights. ically, visually, and economically; it is the primary historical attraction • Resources in the park are tan- in the city. gible links to the past; they are Peter Nero and the Philly POPS Orchestra practice on July 3rd for their annual holiday concert authentic and have direct associa- in front of Independence Hall. tions with the people and events of the early American republic. The park is also significant to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the City of Philadelphia because:

• Philadelphia’s central location in the colonies and the fact that it was the largest city at the time made it the logical place for the

9 Mission, Goals, and Vision Statement

A mission statement is a vision extend the benefits of natural and perpetuate these resources and for the future and articulates, in cultural resource conservation to help all people understand the broad terms, the ideas that the and outdoor recreation through- people, events, and ideas asso- NPS strives to achieve. out this country and the world. ciated with the park’s tangible resources. National Park Service Mission Park Mission Statement Statement It is the mission of Independence Interpretation and Visitor The National Park Service National Historical Park to pre- Services Vision Statement preserves unimpaired the natural serve, manage, operate, maintain, The Division of Interpretation and and cultural resources and values protect and interpret park re- Visitor Services at Independence of the national park system for sources significantly associated National Historical Park will the enjoyment, education, and with the American Revolution and create public programming that inspiration of this and future the establishment of the United is creative, thought provoking, generations. The Park Service States of America in order to and interprets history from mul- cooperates with partners to tiple perspectives using the most

Park Ranger Gus Rylander helps visitors understand the ideas associated with the park’s resources.

10 current research. Park interpret- The Government Performance GPRA. In addition to goals related ers will provide visitors with and Results Act (GPRA), enacted to resource and visitor protection, opportunities to make intellectu- in 1993, requires federal agen- there are some goals specifically al and emotional connections to cies to establish standards for related to interpretation and park sites and stories, fostering measuring performance and visitor services. the public’s interest in the stew- effectiveness. The law requires ardship and preservation of the federal agencies to develop Mission Goal IIa, 1a park’s resources. Interpretation strategic plans describing their Visitors safely enjoy and are will fully examine the context, overall goals and objectives, satisfied with the availability, events, and effects of America’s annual performance plans accessibility, diversity, and struggle for independence and containing quantifiable mea- quality of park facilities, the founding and growth of the sures of their progress, and services, and appropriate United States. performance reports describing recreational opportunities. their success in meeting those It will explore how the ideas standards and measures. Mission Goal IIb, 1 and ideals of the American Visitors and the general public Revolution have influenced Park Mission Goals understand and appreciate people across time and around Park mission goals articulate in the preservation of parks the globe. broad terms the ideal conditions and their resources for this the park and its partners will strive and future generations. Specifically, interpretive to attain. The following mission programming will encourage goals were prepared in 2000 as part visitors to consider what was of the planning process required by so revolutionary about the American Revolution, contem- plate the promise and paradox of liberty, recognize the dynamic tension inherent in our heritage as expressed in E Pluribus Unum, and appreciate the extraordi- nary life and legacy of Benjamin Franklin.

Park Ranger Renee Albertoli introduces the “People of Independence” exhibit inside the Second Bank of the United States.

11 The Northeast Region Visitor Services Strategy: Connecting People to Parks

Connecting People to Parks GOAL 3 cultural minorities and popula- (2005) is the Northeast Region Evaluate and Identify Best Practic- tions who have felt excluded from (NER) interpretation and edu- es: To achieve the best practices in parks. Schools, colleges, civic and cation strategy. It outlines the Interpretation and Education, each academic institutions, organiza- most important actions to be park fosters a culture that uses rel- tions, and life-long learners rec- taken in order to address the evant social science techniques to ognize and use parks as dynamic challenges parks face and main- continuously develop, assess, and classrooms to enhance learning, tain NER’s commitment to excel- improve visitor experiences. to engage in civic dialogue, and lence in visitor services. to transform their interests into GOAL 4 personal action. The park’s Comprehensive Collaborate with Others: Each Interpretive Plan will support park connects to the National Park GOAL 7 and implement these eight goals: System and seeks opportunities Invest in Students and Educators: to link themes and build relation- Parks offer curriculum-based GOAL 1 ships with parks and partners lo- education programs for students Connect People to America’s Sto- cally, nationally, and globally. of all ages, especially school-age ries: Each park provides opportu- students, so that children have nities for all people to experience GOAL 5 quality educational “park experi- authentic, tangible resources that Connect People to Places through ences” during their elementary help them understand and draw Technology: Each park integrates and high school years. inspiration from larger meanings, established and emerging technol- concepts, themes, and stories ogies to enhance interpretive and GOAL 8 about our natural world and education programs to reach Foster America’s Best Interpreters cultural heritage. new audiences. and Educators: Interpreters at all levels seek their own professional GOAL 2 GOAL 6 development opportunities and Use a Business Approach to Open New Doors to Learning: execute their responsibilities with Enhance Financial Means and Parks provide meaningful and innovation and professionalism. Capacity: Parks develop and adopt relevant resource-based oppor- NPS managers create a climate best business practices to leverage tunities for life-long learning for conducive to professional growth NPS resources and to ensure the diverse audiences, particularly for and learning. implementation of effective interpretive and educational opportunities for all people.

12 Accessibility

The following Acts and their “No otherwise qualified individ- Further, National Park Service amendments are the acces- ual with a disability in the United (NPS) policy mandates that sibility laws that apply to the States shall, solely by reason of interpretive programming be federal government: disability, be excluded from the developed in accordance with The Architectural Barriers Act participation in, be denied the NPS Director’s Orders 42, and of 1968 (Public Law 90-480) benefits of, or be subject to dis- that interpretive media be devel- requires all buildings and facilities crimination under any program oped within the NPS Accessibility built or renovated in whole or in or activity conducted by Federal Guidelines for Interpretive Media. part with Federal funds to be Financial Assistance or by any accessible to, and usable by, Executive Agency.” physically disabled persons. Since 1968, official standards for making buildings accessible have been developed and the U.S. Architectural and Transporta- tion Barriers Compliance Board has been created to monitor and enforce compliance with the law.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Public Law 93-112), as amended, is more encompass- ing than the Architectural Barriers Act. While the Architectural Barriers Act requires physical access to buildings and facilities, Section 504 requires program ac- cessibility in all services provided with Federal dollars. The act itself is very brief. It states:

Park Ranger Erin Basile hands out park information. There are a variety of programs and facilities to make the park accessible to visitors

13 Park Interpretive Themes

Interpretive themes capture Theme 1 Theme 2 the essence of the park’s What Was “Revolutionary” Liberty: The Promises and the significance. They include the About the American Revolu- Paradoxes most important stories and tion? represent core messages that The promises of liberty and equal- every audience should have The American Revolution was the ity granted in the founding docu- the opportunity to hear. result of new ideas expressed in our ments present a paradox: not only founding documents, which created are they ideals to strive for but While interpretation of any park profound changes in power, percep- also unfulfilled promises for people could touch upon many stories, tion, and opportunity that continue who struggle to be fully included as focused themes increase effective- to affect people in the United States citizens of our nation. ness. When well conceived, themes and around the world. explore the meanings behind the This theme explores the theory facts. They open minds to new ideas This theme supplies context and reality of attaining liberty and and perhaps to multiple points of for the Revolution. It helps visi- ensuring equality, extending that view. When linked to commonly tors enter the world of the 18th exploration over time and around held emotions or universal human century, and then builds upon the globe. It looks at the origins of experiences, themes encourage this understanding of the past to the Founders’ ideals, at how those audiences to see themselves in examine the changes that came ideals actually worked in every- a park’s story and discover with independence. The founding day life, and at how they evolved personal relevance. documents were a bold experi- and spread around the world. ment testing a new idea — gov- In 1776, the phrase “all men are The following interpretive themes ernment by the people. It takes created equal” in the Declaration were developed for Independence a long look at the 18th-century of Independence was interpreted National Historical Park during European world in which the by many of the signers to mean a series of workshops in 2005 revolution occurred and focuses “well-educated, property-owning involving a cross-section of park on the political, economic, and men.” The definition of who was staff, constituents, and partners. social ferment triggered by the entitled to liberty, including the Enlightenment’s new thinking on right to vote, has changed over both sides of the Atlantic. time. This theme not only speaks of the American Revolution, but the continuing struggle for liberty “When in the that is part of the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Course of story. Human Events...” “All Men are Created Equal...”

14 Theme 3 Theme 4 American revolutionary thought E Pluribus Unum: Benjamin Franklin – in science, politics, and society. Out of Many, One the relevant revolutionary This theme illustrates how Frank- lin struggled with the practical The motto E Pluribus Unum, Benjamin Franklin was revolution- and philosophical paradoxes meaning “out of many, one,” illus- ary in his thinking and actions, he and worked for the promises and trates a distinctive characteristic of struggled to achieve liberty but did responsibilities of liberty in his the United States — a democratic not always extend it to others, and professional and personal life. nation of many states and diverse he worked to bring many people It demonstrates the lesson he people with different cultures, together for a common goal. learned early, that when many beliefs, and political ideas — which people contribute their talents and contributes to the dynamic tension Franklin’s many accomplishments efforts towards a common goal, and growth of American society. capture the spirit of the 18th- much can be accomplished. century Enlightenment and This theme looks at the many forms of diversity in the United States, at how the Founders “We hold these truths to be self evident...” viewed diversity, and at the com- monly held beliefs that hold such a diverse nation together. The United States is composed of many different parts. The popu- lation, then as now, is divided into geographic regions, ethnic and racial groups, religions, and political opinions. This theme considers how the 18th and 19th centuries viewed diversity and how government and society responded to these differences.

“We the people...”

Benjamin Franklin’s presence can be felt throughout the park – from Independence Square to his house site to his grave site – as he embodied the spirit of the 18th century Enlightenment and his ideas are still relevant today.

15 Desired Visitor Experience

In addition to the themes that General Characteristics of the Orientation & the park plans to communi- Desired Audience Experience Wayfinding Goals cate to the public, it is impor- Based on responses during plan- Based on responses during plan- tant to consider the nature of ning workshops, the park’s in- ning workshops, the park’s the park’s interaction with its terpretive program will be most interpretive program will be most targeted audiences, whether in effective when it includes: effective when it includes: person, on a website or dis- tance learning program. • Opportunities for visitors to • Easy access to pre-visit informa- easily and safely locate key park tion and orientation materials via What will the initial contact with sites with a minimum of inconve- the park’s website, phone, mail, the park be like? How will audi- nience due to enhanced security or in person at the Independence ences be oriented? What activities procedures. Visitor Center so visitors can and which programs can the park make informed choices. provide that will reinforce its • Opportunities to interpret current themes? How can audi- the park story from multiple • Directional signs so that visitors ences actively participate in learn- perspectives. may easily navigate to key park ing? Are there ways to encourage sites and programs. visitor reflection and inspiration? • Opportunities for visitors to What will create positive memo- have more program options to Theme Reinforcement ries and nurture stewardship and balance constraints due to security, Based on responses during plan- support? historic preservation, or crowd ning workshops, the park’s control. interpretive program will be most effective when it includes: • Opportunities for all ages (especially younger visitors) to • Opportunities to visit the have fun experiencing the park. original buildings where historic events took place either in person or on a virtual tour using innovative programming .

• Tangible connections through original artifacts, historic build- ings, and landscapes to the people and events represented in the park stories.

• Links demonstrating the relevance of the 18th century to 21st century people.

Despite a varied assortment of signs in and around the park, it is still a challenge for visitors to easily locate historic sites, since the park is in the middle of a major city.

16 Park Ranger Joanne Schillizzi interprets to some of the millions of annual park visitors who visit America’s Birthplace.

Thought, Reflection, • A variety of interpretive Inspiration, and Stewardship programs and techniques that Based on responses during encourage personal connection planning workshops, the park’s between the visitor and the park. interpretive program will be most effective when it includes: • Identifying Independence NHP as a unit of the National • Thought-provoking program- Park Service. ming that presents park stories from multiple perspectives so that visitors can make personal connections to the park resources and themes.

17 Issues and Challenges Affecting Interpretation

Visitors must line up to go through security procedures before entering the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Square.

Independence National Histori- Wayfinding and Orientation • Visitors may not have enough cal Park has many assets upon Challenges time to see other park sites such which to build an effective Based on responses during as Washington Square, the Por- interpretive program, includ- planning workshops, the trait Gallery in the Second Bank, ing evocative and compelling following challenges and issues the Franklin Court sites, Carpen- stories, outstanding cultural facing Independence NHP should ters’ Hall, Declaration House, the resources, ongoing research, be addressed: American Philosophical Society a professional staff, and Museum, New Hall, the Dolley dedicated supporters. • Because of the park’s urban set- Todd, William White and Deshler It also faces a number of chal- ting, visitors often have difficulty Morris Houses, the First Bank, lenges. Well-designed programs locating parking and finding their City Tavern, Welcome Park, the can build on interpretive way to and through the park. Independence Living History strengths to help overcome Center, and nearby historic hous- the challenges. • Many visitors spend all their es of worship and burial grounds. time on Independence Mall (the Independence Visitor Center, • Access to programs and build- Liberty Bell Center, Independence ings can be confusing because of Hall, and the National Constitu- seasonally changing hours and tion Center) and are not aware procedures such as timed tickets of other park sites. for certain tours.

18 Security • Some of the park’s exhibits are Partnerships Based on responses during outdated in both content and • The park needs to work planning workshops, the follow- technology. Exhibits tend to be more effectively with stake- ing challenges and issues facing text-heavy and are not engaging. holders to provide a seamless Independence NHP should visitor experience. be addressed: Training and Preparation Based on responses during Budget and Staffing Con- • Security practices present an- planning workshops, the follow- straints other layer of regulations and pro- ing challenges and issues facing Based on responses during cedures that visitors must learn Independence NHP should be planning workshops, the follow- and navigate through. It creates addressed: ing challenges and issues facing lines and increases the amount of Independence NHP should be time needed for visiting key park • Staff needs ongoing training addressed: “icons” such as the Liberty Bell and coaching to sustain pro- and Independence Hall. gramming that is innovative and • The park needs to continually thought provoking and uses a evaluate its operations to ensure • The presence of security variety of techniques to engage that it is making the best use of its screening raises questions about visitors. staff and providing the best pro- the delicate balance between gram access to its park sites. personal freedom and restrictions • The staff needs to work on their imposed to protect citizens from own and with outside scholars • Many of the park’s audiovisual harm. Park security issues relate to make use of current research. exhibits are outdated and require to the park theme: Liberty: the frequent repairs to work reliably. Promises and the Paradoxes. The park staff needs to incor-

Park Guide Adam Duncan talks with visitors porate new technology into its Creating an 18th-Century about the Declaration of Independence at the programming. site where Thomas Jefferson wrote it. Experience in Present-Day Philadelphia Based on responses during planning workshops, the follow- ing challenges and issues facing Independence NHP should be addressed:

• The 21st-century urban scene creates many challenges in recreating a historic 18th- century setting.

• Preservation needs and heavy visitation limit visitor access to historic buildings and the original artifacts that witnessed history.

19 Visitor Profiles and Targeted Audiences

This is a broad description Independence National Historical of park audiences and their Park are local day visitors, 60 per- needs—including current cent are non-local day visitors, and and potential audiences. 20 percent are overnight visitors. “Audience” describes anyone Park visitors come from all over who uses a site’s interpreta- the world and many have a basic tion and educational services, knowledge of the founding of the whether in person or “virtually” United States. through digital technologies. More than 500,000 children visit Existing Audiences the park each year, especially Annual visitation to the Liberty on weekdays in the spring and Bell Center, which provides a rea- fall. On weekends and during sonable baseline visitor count for the summer, the majority of park the entire park, has been increas- visitors are individuals and small ing and topped two million people family groups. in 2005. Visitation data from the The Independence Visitor Center (above) Greater Philadelphia Tourism attracts more than 2 million visitors a year Marketing Council’s “Money from around the world. Park Ranger Larry McClenney shares the story of the Liberty Generation Model,” estimates Bell (below) with Prince Charles and Camilla, 20 percent of visitors to Duchess of Cornwall, Pennsylvania Governor Rendell, and Philadelphia Mayor Street.

20 Targeted Audiences Based on responses during • Teachers and school groups The park will continue to provide planning workshops, the audi- (especially 4th to 8th grades) will services to all audiences, but the ences targeted for interpretive continue to be a primary audience following groups were identified programming and community during the fall and spring seasons. in the planning workshops. outreach in the next 5-7 years are, in priority order: • Visitors from underrepre- It is important to identify sented groups such as African- targeted audiences so that pro- • Virtual visitors – The Internet Americans, Asian-Americans and gramming, media, and facilities is often the “front door” for Hispanic visitors. can be shaped to address their visitors to the park, and the park interests and needs. Further, iden- needs to meet the expectations of • Non- English speaking visitors, tifying audiences helps in evaluat- this ever-growing technologically both local and international. ing the effectiveness of interpre- knowledgeable audience. tive programming. • Center City residents and • Families – local, regional and regional recreational users. out-of-state including: parents with children, couples, and grand- • Business travelers and parents and grandchildren. convention participants.

At the Independence Visitor Center park guides Mike Carbonaro and Ted Johnson give out free timed tickets to Independence Hall.

21 Existing Conditions

Facilities Liberty Bell Center – opened in National Constitution Center – The park has more than 25 October 2003, this building pro- this partnership building on Arch historic and public use build- vides exhibits and an audiovisual Street just north of the Visitor ings that are open to the public. presentation on the history and Center contains world-class Most are staffed by NPS inter- meaning of the Liberty Bell. The exhibits and programs on the preters while some are staffed Bell itself is showcased at the south U.S. Constitution. and owned by our park part- exit of the building with a view of ners. These facilities include: Independence Hall and is seen by Franklin Court – includes a an average of 6,000-10,000 people “Ghost House” structure on the Independence Visitor Center – a day from early spring through site of Franklin’s former mansion opened in November 2001, this the fall. plus the underground museum regional visitor center is a joint and five Market Street houses, venture between the NPS and Independence Square – Once three of which contain exhibits the Independence Visitor Center through security for Independence (on Franklin and printing, the Corporation. The building func- Square, visitors can enter several Aurora newspaper office, and tions as the park’s primary visitor buildings: Old City Hall, home archeology at Franklin Court) center as well as a center for city to the Supreme Court; the West and two that are a museum gift and region information. From Wing document exhibit with shop and a United States Post early spring through the fall, original copies of the Declaration Office staffed by partners. 6,000 -12,000 visitors use it daily. of Independence and the U.S. Constitution; Congress Hall with its restored House and Senate Chambers; and Independence Hall where our country was born in 1776 and our government was created in 1787.

Franklin Court (left) is the site of Benjamin Franklin’s former house that was excavated in the 1960s and 70s; today the site includes an under- ground museum, five neighboring houses along Market Street, and two “ghost structures” that show where Franklin’s home once stood. Several founding fathers, including Washington and Franklin, were members of historic Christ Church (right).

22 The “People of Independence” archeology lab that is staffed by Washington, is open for tours by exhibit in the Second Bank of park employees and volunteers volunteers. The First Bank of the United States – displays who sort and catalogue millions the United States is currently the park’s extensive C.W. Peale of artifacts unearthed during the not open to the public. portrait collection of the Found- construction of the National Con- The American Philosophical ing Fathers and interprets the stitution Center. Society Museum and the Car- age of Enlightenment in the penters’ Hall are still owned 18th century. 325 Walnut St. – future site of and operated by their original three additional learning labs for organizations and are open to Washington Square – one of the the Independence Park Institute. the public. Pemberton House is city’s five original public squares operated as a museum store by planned by William Penn, it is Other park buildings that the Eastern National. Once Upon now the site of the Tomb of the park staffs include: New Hall A Nation offers public program- Unknown Soldier of the Ameri- Military Museum with exhibits ming at the Free Quaker Meet- can Revolution and an eternal on the 18th century Army, Navy ing. The City Tavern is leased as flame. and Marine Corps; Declaration an operating restaurant and the House, a reconstruction of the Thomas Bond House is currently Independence Living History place where Jefferson lived when a bed & breakfast. The First Bank Center – the park’s former visi- writing the Declaration of Inde- and the Locust Street Houses are tor center built in 1974 has been pendence; and two restored 18th- now participating in the historic converted for multiple uses which century houses – the Dolley lease program. include: educational programs at Todd Madison and the Bishop the Independence Park Institute; William White houses. There are several historic houses theatrical productions and a gift The Deshler-Morris House of worship and burial grounds shop operated by Once Upon A (Germantown White House), with formal or traditional as- Nation, a park partner; and an the summer retreat for President sociations with the park: Christ Church, St. Joseph’s, St. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution in Washington Square reminds us of the sacrifices necessary to secure our independence. This peaceful square was recently trans- George’s, Mikveh Israel, Free ferred to the care of the NPS from the City of Philadelphia. Quaker Meeting, Gloria Dei, Mother Bethel African Method- ist Episcopal, and St. Thomas African Episcopal.

23 Non-Personal Services Exhibits – The park’s indoor ex- period pieces, or reproductions. (Interpretive Media) hibits range from older, text-heavy, All of these spaces should be eval- There is a variety of interpre- wall-mounted panels to portable, uated to see how they can support tive media throughout the interactive reproductions. Most of the new interpretive themes and park, including: the older exhibits need to be re- to evaluate interpretive opportu- placed. All of the exhibits – nities through other media. Website – The park has a web- including those designed and in- site (www.nps.gov/inde) that stalled in recent years – need to Audiovisual programs – The is updated regularly. The Inde- be reevaluated for their effective- Independence Visitor Center pendence Park Institute website ness in providing interpretive theaters show the award-winning (www.independenceparkinstitute. opportunities for a wide variety 1975 film “Independence “ and com) is linked to the park web- of visitors. the 2002 film “Choosing Sides.” site. The Institute’s website is a Both films provide a good histori- resource for teachers and school Historically Furnished areas – cal overview but do not provide groups that provides tips for visit- Many of the park’s historic struc- a basic orientation to the park. ing the park, pre- and post-visit tures have all or part of their in- The park also has a range of lesson plans for IPI programs and teriors furnished as period room audiovisual programs from Teacher Guides. settings with original artifacts, the 1976 Bicentennial that need replacement.

Reading interpretive wayside exhibits is one way visitors can learn the park story at all hours.

24 Wayside exhibits – The major- Publications – The park’s pri- Books and Other Sales Items ity of the park’s wayside exhibits mary publication is the NPS Eastern National (EN) operates were developed and installed in brochure with the park map. several Cooperating Association the mid-1980s; a few waysides There are a number of other free sales areas within the park and were added in recent years. Most publications produced by both sells a variety of books, publica- of the existing wayside exhibits the NPS and park partners. tions, and other education items. still provide good 24-hour service The park staff reviews and ap- to park visitors. However, some of Park Library and Archives proves all sales items offered by the wayside panels need replace- A special collection of books, EN. Other bookstores and private ment in the short-term, and the manuscripts, pamphlets, drawings vendors operate in partner-man- entire wayside system needs to be and images is open to interested aged park buildings. redesigned as a long-term goal. scholars. It is a valuable resource for history, historic preservation, Wayfinding signs – A number and historic landscape research. of partner-sponsored wayfinding It is widely used by historians and sign efforts have been tried in the scholars writing histories as well past decade. However, these sign as teachers attending workshops, systems do not complement the and employees of the park and NPS roadway vehicle directional neighboring institutions. The signs, building identification library is now included on the signs, or the wayside exhibit ori- park’s website. entation panels. The park needs a Second Bank of the United States comprehensive sign plan.

The dozens of life portraits in the People of Independence exhibit in the Second Bank help visitors put faces with the names of the founders (left).

25 Personal Services The park’s Division of Interpreta- tion and Visitor Services offers a wide variety of interpretive pro- grams that range from ranger-led tours of Independence Hall to demonstrations of printing and the Glass Armonica at Franklin Court. Uniformed park rang- ers give tours and talks in several historic buildings, present inter- pretive demonstrations in period clothing, lead guided outdoor walking tours, and conduct hands- on programs for children. Park Park interpreters, like Park Ranger Chuck Gorman, present formal tours, walking tours, informal guides provide informal interpre- talks, illustrated programs, and demonstrations. tation at various locations.

Orientation to the park is offered Approximately 60 full-time park 100 volunteers provide additional primarily by park guides who interpreters offer up to 30 visitor interpretive services at the park’s staff the NPS desk in the Indepen- programs daily throughout most major sites and donate almost dence Visitor Center. However, all of the year. Park guides welcome 8,000 hours of their time annually park employees and park and prepare visitors for security to support the park’s interpretive partners provide orientation to screening and provide crowd program. visitors throughout the day at control at the Liberty Bell Center many park locations. and Old City Hall. More than

Park Guide Amber Kraft demonstrates the reproduction of Franklin’s Glass Armonica in Franklin Court to children.

26 Curriculum-based Education Materials created for teachers Program include on-site teacher guides The park began planning its designed for self-guided visits as Education Program in 2003. It is well as classroom lesson plans. funded by a unique combination The park charges a program fee of a William Penn Foundation for ranger-conducted formal endowment and a self-sustaining education programs. The fee fee program. Led by a Supervi- pays for seasonal and term sory Education Specialist whose employees, course materials, salary is paid by Eastern National utility costs, and contract services. through an endowment by a grant Once the program is in full opera- from the William Penn Founda- tion, up to 50,000 students a year tion, the Independence Park In- are expected to participate in the stitute (IPI) has developed on-site Independence Park Institute curriculum-based school pro- education programs. grams with pre- and post-visit les- son plans to fully engage students. The first learning space opened to students in the fall of 2005.

Currently housed in three learn- ing labs in the Independence Living History Center, the IPI will expand its facilities at 325 Walnut Street and add three new learning spaces in the fall of 2007. Park interpretive staff offers curricu- lum-based programs linked to park resources and themes. The IPI also conducts annual teacher workshops (one to two weeks long) and offers full day and half-day professional devel- opment programs.

The Independence Park Institute provides curriculum based education that involves children in a variety of activities.

27 Partnerships Independence National Historical Park has established relationships with numerous stakeholders. On a regular basis, the park has contact with about 100 partners. The City of Philadelphia was critical to the formation of the park and Independence Mall in the 1950s and 1960s. Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Congress Hall and Old City Hall are still owned by the City of Philadelphia and managed by the NPS under a long-term coopera- tive agreement which is signed by the Secretary of the Interior.

Other organizations dating to the 18th century continue to own and operate their buildings in the park: the American Philosophical Society (APS), a still active scien- tific and historical society; and the Carpenters’ Company of Phila- delphia, the oldest trade guild in America has owned and operated Carpenters’ Hall since 1770. The First Continental Congress met there in 1774. The eight affili- ated historic houses of worship also own their own buildings and burial grounds: Christ Church, The Carpenters’ Company of Philadelphia, the oldest trade guild in America, has owned Carpenters’ Hall since 1770. The first Continental Congress met here in 1774. St. Joseph’s, St. George’s, Mikveh Israel, Free Quaker Meeting, Gloria Dei, Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal, and St. Thomas African Episcopal Church.

Another long-term partner is Eastern National (EN), a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization that pro- vides sales outlets in the park with

28 high-quality educational products Independence Visitor Center and 100 interactive and multi-media and services that help visitors works with the park to produce exhibits. Lights of Liberty is a better understand the park and its events, initiate programs, and non-profit organization that tells resources. The Friends of Inde- manage projects. Once Upon a the story of America’s struggle for pendence National Historical Nation (OUAN), operating under independence through a sound Park was established in 1972. The a memorandum of agreement, and light show that projects images friends group raises money for the presents walking tours and story- up to 50 feet high onto park build- park, funds exhibits and educa- telling benches in various loca- ings during summer evenings. tional programs, buys artifacts, tions and craft demonstrations The park works closely with and presents volunteer programs. inside the Independence Visitor various tourism organizations Center. The National Constitu- in the city such as The Greater The park also works closely with tion Center (NCC), operating as Philadelphia Tourism Marketing the Independence Visitor Center a public-private partner with the Corporation (GPTMC) and the Corporation (IVCC), a non-profit NPS, tells the story of the U.S. Philadelphia Convention organization which operates the Constitution through more than and Visitors Bureau.

The National Constitution Center, completed in 2003, is a park partner that offers general and special topic interpretive programs to appeal to visitors and local residents.

29 30 Part Two: Actions

We have it in our power to begin the world over again.

Thomas Paine 1776 Common Sense

31 32 The Planning Process

In developing this Long-Range Once the initial draft LRIP was workshop participants. A final Interpretive Plan (LRIP) as part completed in the winter and spring draft was sent to all park employ- of the Comprehensive Inter- of 2006, it was reviewed by the ees for comments. This collabora- pretive Planning process, the core interpretive team and park tive interpretive planning effort, park’s Division of Interpreta- management. The revised draft was and the thorough review stages tion and Visitor Services cre- then reviewed by park divisional through 2006, has produced a ated a process that collected representatives, and key park part- more comprehensive document information from previous ners including historians from the to guide the park’s interpretive planning documents and Organization of American Histo- program into the future. conducted a series of work- rians (OAH) team, and planning shops with park staff and many park partners.

In the fall of 2004, the Organi- zation of American Historians provided J. Richie Garrison, Richard Newman, Gary Nash and Emma Lapansky who reviewed the park’s interpretive programs as a first step in the planning process. In May 2005, a 3-day workshop reviewed and revised the topics outlined in Part One of this document. In July 2005, a 2-day workshop evaluated the existing interpretive media and how it supports the park’s personal ser- vices programming. In August 2005, core team mem-

bers from the park traveled to This Long-Range Interpretive Plan was developed through a series of work- the National Park Service’s shops in 2005 many that included partners. Interpretive Design Center in Harpers Ferry (HFC), West Virginia. Over 3 days, HFC media specialists recommended improvements to consider in the next 5-7 years. In the fall of 2005, several smaller workshops were held with park staff to recommend changes in the park’s personal services programming.

33 Goals for Interpretive Programming

After reviewing the contents to park sites. The park needs to racy expressed in the Declaration of this LRIP’s Part One, park create a Comprehensive Sign Plan of Independence and U.S. Consti- staff identified the following (CSP) to help visitors easily dis- tution; 3. Benjamin Franklin, the areas of focus that have not cover key park buildings within a quintessential Founding Father; been adequately addressed. crowded urban environment. 4. 18th-century Philadelphia; and In order to enhance the effec- 5. The Liberty Bell as an interna- tiveness of the overall interpre- Park Interpretive Themes tional symbol of liberty. tive programming in the park, The park’s interpretive themes the following goals and issues from the 1960s through the mid- With this background – and in or- must be addressed over the 1990s were stated in terms of der to better engage all park visi- next 5 to 7 years: events (the Revolution), people tors – the planning team restated (Franklin), or time periods (Capi- the park’s interpretive themes in The Highest Priority – Orienta- tal City), and did not fully express terms of ideas and the context in tion, Wayfinding, and Access the purpose of the park which is: which these ideas were created. to Information “the American Revolution and the The most important goal for founding and growth of the United Specifically, the park’s new providing interpretive program- States.” interpretive themes: ming over the next 5-7 years is to • Help visitors consider what improve orientation, wayfinding, The General Management Plan of was revolutionary about the and access to basic park informa- 1995 expanded the list to fivein - American Revolution. tion. No unified NPS sign system terpretive themes: 1. Independence exists to clearly identify park Hall as the physical reminder of • Encourage visitors to contem- buildings and major exhibits, help the epic struggle for freedom and plate the promises and paradox visitors locate parking, or provide self-government; 2. the evolution of liberty and the continuing information and clear directions of the American idea of democ- pursuit of liberty around the world and through time. The Liberty Bell is a worldwide symbol of the quest for liberty. • Facilitate visitors’ recognition of the dynamic tension in our unique national heritage which is expressed as E Pluribus Unum – out of many, one.

• Explore with visitors the modern relevance of the life and accomplishments of Benjamin Franklin.

34 The Visitor Experience Issues and Challenges tion of the park’s many authentic New or revised interpretive Several issues must be addressed buildings and collections, and the programming should: over the next 5-7 years: importance of “place.”

• Provide a variety of interpre- • The park needs to continually • The park needs to make better tive options for visiting park sites, re-evaluate how it provides visitor use of interpretive opportunities so that visitors are able to experi- services to adapt to changing visita- at security check points and visitor ence a personal connection to tion, techniques, and technology. waiting lines. the park resources and stories. • Historical information should be Targeted Audiences • Offer ranger-facilitated pro- continually updated and modern The park needs to focus on the grams which encourage visitor scholarship incorporated so that following audiences in the next involvement and interpret events the park staff can follow park sto- 5-7 years: within the context of their times ries into the 19th & 20th centuries. and from multiple viewpoints. • Virtual visitors who use the park • Continue to explore effective website to plan or substitute for • Continue to take full advantage ways to provide information so their visit. of modern technology in devel- visitors are aware of how much oping programs. there is to see and experience at • Families with children, grand- Independence NHP. children and regional visitors with • Working with the park’s part- out-of-town relatives. ners, foster a seamless experience • The park’s interpretive program for visitors to the historic area. needs to foster visitor apprecia- • Visitors from underrepresented groups such as African-Americans, Asian-Americans and Hispanic visitors. Supervisory Park Ranger Joe Becton leads a group participating in the annual Independence Park Institute’s summer teacher’s institute. • Teachers and school groups especially 4th through 8th grades.

• Non-English speaking visitors both local and international.

• Center City residents and regional recreational users, especially young adults.

• Business visitors and convention participants.

35 Action Plan over the Next 5-7 Years

A comprehensive sign plan, initiated at the park as a result of this LRIP, is one of the action items to improve visitor orientation and identify the National Park Service. Photo courtesy of Meeker Designs

Actions to Address Identity, Actions to Address Themes and • Explore ways to better inter- Orientation, and Wayfinding Experiences pret current historic room settings In order to better inform and In order for visitors to better through additional interpretive direct visitors to the park, park understand the park’s themes, media such as labels and virtual staff will: park staff will: tours.

• Create a Comprehensive Sign • Ensure that interpretive pro- • Continue to explore innovative Plan and install signs that identify grams and media support the park program options rather than just the park as an NPS site and pro- themes, provide a variety of visitor staff buildings. vide directions. experiences, and tell the park’s stories from multiple perspectives. • Modern technology will be • Provide updated, easy-to-find used to expand our ability to orientation information on the • Create curriculum-based edu- reach audiences, rather than to park’s website. cation programs for the Indepen- replace staff. dence Park Institute (IPI). Use the • Create brief orientation pro- IPI to create in-depth programs grams for the Independence Visi- for adult learners. tor Center and the park website so visitors can plan their visit more easily.

3634 Actions to Address • Develop a “virtual park tour” Actions to Address Targeted Issues program through Internet or cell Targeted Audiences In order to address the phone technology. In order to reach out to targeted targeted issues that stand audiences, park staff will do the in the way of effective inter- • Explore ways to share informa- following: pretation, park staff will do tion with park visitors through the following: modern technology. For All Visitors • Participate in the NPS Visitor • Continue working with park • Continue to offer staff training Services Project (VSP) to develop a staff and partners to increase visi- to update historical knowledge visitor survey to learn more about tor access to historic buildings. and develop new and innovative the park’s visitors and use this data programs. in evaluating programs and staffing. • Explore better audio visual technology and better ways to • Continue to explore ways maintain equipment. to incorporate the arts in the park’s programming to attract a wider audience.

Once Upon A Nation provides first person costumed interpretation throughout the park. 37 For Virtual Visitors • Plan and develop with partners, For Underrepresented groups • Offer the Electronic Field Trip programs using new technology • Continue to research and program titled “Freedom In Amer- such as a podcast, cell phone or offer a variety of programs that ica: Some Assembly Required” audio tour, or virtual tour of a highlight the African-American, (produced by Ball State University park site or program. Asian-American and Hispanic and the park) on the park’s web- experiences related to our park site to interpret the park’s stories For Families themes. to millions of school children who • Develop and publicize programs cannot visit Philadelphia. that are desirable to families. For Non-English Speakers • Inventory and continually eval- • Reassess the effectiveness of the • Offer Junior Ranger program uate the services the park offers park’s website and identify what activities throughout the park and in languages other than English. products should be added includ- on the park’s website. ing park information, lesson plans, • Explore new ways to deliver and curriculum materials. programs in other languages such as audio programs over cell phones or other devices.

More than 20 million school children participated in the electronic field trip on October 17th, 2006 titled: Freedom In America: Some Assembly Required sponsored through a park partnership with Ball State University and the National Park Foundation.

38 Archeology: History Found in Pieces; Benjamin Franklin; Daily Life and Diversity in 18th-century Philadelphia; and the Founding Documents and the Underground Railroad in Philadelphia. The Independence Park Institute has developed an education plan that is available on request; some of the highlights of that plan include:

• Adding IPI materials to the park website.

• The creation of additional curriculum-based school programs linked to park themes.

The new Independence Park Institute offers interactive curriculum-based educational • The creation of enrichment programs to up to 50,000 students annually. programs to meet the needs of exceptional students. For Center City Residents and Program Specialist and creating Recreational Users a formal education program. The • The ongoing assessment of IPI • Offer special programming for Independence Park Institute (IPI) programs through the creation local residents, in cooperation staff is currently developing six of evaluation instruments. with park partners. curriculum-based school programs and teacher guides. It also con- • Developing a summer Junior For Business Travelers and ducts professional development Ranger program for families in Convention Participants workshops for teachers. The IPI IPI learning Labs. • Explore new ways to deliver in- staff has created on-site guides for formation and programs in ways visiting school groups, and will • Develop continuing education they can be used individually develop programs for families and programs for adults, and explore such as cell phones or podcasts. adult learners. partnerships with local universi- ties, the City Tavern, or other For School Groups – The The park plans programs that will partners. Independence Park Institute intellectually and emotionally con- The park formalized its commit- nect all learners to the resources ment to education in 2003 by and stories of the park. Currently hiring a Supervisory Education the planned topics include:

39 Research and Collection Needs

Park Guide Patrick Whalen discusses some of the challenges the House of Representatives faced in historic Congress Hall.

In order to fully accomplish the • The contributions of various actions included in this plan groups of people living in the re- and support the new interpre- gion in the 18th and 19th century. tive themes, the park needs re- search on the following topics: • The philosophical basis for the American Revolution • The President’s House, includ- (the Enlightenment) and its ing the Germantown White House worldwide influence. (Deshler-Morris House), which represents certain aspects of • The impact of the economy and 18th-century American culture. politics on each other, especially the impact of the First and Second • Philadelphia as a center for Banks of the United States and abolition in the United States and other policies such as monetary the location of an active free system, taxation, and trade regula- African-American population in tions. the city and region. Other research needs will continue to develop during the implementa- tion of this LRIP.

3440 Staffing and Training Needs

• Continue to evaluate the most effective use of interpre- tive staff and the range of visitor services offered.

• Train park rangers to deliver curriculum-based programs at the Independence Park Institute and create an IPI teaching staff supplemented by volunteers and interns.

• Review which services are of- fered by the park’s partners and make sure that partners’ visitor services complement the park’s visitor services.

• Ensure that both the ongoing and new hire training reflects the issues and needs addressed in the LRIP, and especially includes training in using the park’s new interpretive themes.

The Merchants Exchange Building has been adaptively restored and is the home of the park’s library, training room and administrative offices.

41 Implementation Plan

Fiscal year 2007 Fiscal year 2008 Fiscal Year 2009 • Develop a Comprehensive Sign • Implement personal services re- • Develop year round IPI pro- Plan for the park, including port recommendations to enhance gramming for all learners (e.g. a security sign plan. park programs. junior rangers, seniors).

• Complete an NPS Visitor • Develop thematic virtual park • Complete a review of all park Services Project survey. tours using modern technology interpretive media (exhibits, (e.g. cell phone). audio-visual, publications, • Offer the web-based electronic waysides). field trip educational program: • Develop a brief park orientation “Freedom In America – Some Power Point program for the Inde- • Complete a comprehensive Assembly Required” to students pendence Visitor Center theaters. review of park special services worldwide. (e.g. accessibility, foreign lan- • Develop new interpretive exhi- guages). • Complete a comprehensive bits for the President’s House site. personal services review of how • Develop new exhibits for the the park staffs its sites and sched- • Develop IPI education programs New Hall Military Museum. ules its programs. on the Liberty Bell, Founding Documents, and the Underground • Complete an Independence Railroad. NHP website review and transition website duties from • Develop new exhibits for the the park’s Public Affairs Office Franklin Court Underground to the Interpretation & Visitor Museum. Services Division.

• Conduct an assessment of modern technology tools such as iPods, cell phones, and GPS to determine the most appropriate use of these tools in the park, and offer experimental programs (e.g. podcasts).

The First Bank of the United States, built in 1797, has been restored on the outside. Chartered by Congress from 1791 to 1811, the First Bank helped establish a sound financial foundation for the new nation.

3442 Fiscal Year 2007 through Fiscal Year 2012 (Ongoing) • Incorporate the contributions of African-Americans, Native- Americans, and women into the park’s programs.

• Enhance interactive family programming (e.g. Ranger-led programs, Junior Ranger book- lets, new exhibits).

• Expand arts into more park programming to appeal to a wider audience, especially local residents.

• Enhance park program access and options through personal services and modern technology.

• Utilize park staff expertise by participating in local and national conferences.

• Update research to more fully interpret diverse populations and the paradoxes in American government and society.

• Conduct research on the eco- nomic and political impact of the 1st & 2nd U. S. Banks.

Park Ranger Ray Harshbarger gives a first person program as Chief Teedyuscung which offers a Native American viewpoint on 18th century events.

3443 Planning Team

Independence National Historical Park

Steve Sitarski Chief of Interpretation and Visitor Services Mary Jenkins Interpretive Program Specialist Missy Hogan Chief of Visitor Service Operations Coxey Toogood Historian Bob Leone Supervisory Park Ranger Eric Knight Park Ranger/Interpreter Joe Chauncy Park Ranger/Interpreter Lynn Nash Park Guide/Interpreter Leslie Brodhead Park Guide/Interpreter Lynn Wagman Volunteer-in-Park (VIP) Ed Uthe Volunteer-in-Park (VIP) Martha Bogle Acting Assistant Superintendent Doris Fanelli Chief of Cultural Resources Management Alan Saperstein Supervisory Park Ranger, Law Enforcement Adam Millington Human Resources Assistant Julia Clebsch Maintenance Division

Independence NHP Interpretation and Visitor Services staff members Steve Sitarski (center) along with (clockwise from lower left) Mary Jenkins, Missy Hogan, Joe Chauncey, Eric Knight, Bob Leone, Coxey Toogood, Lynn Nash and (not pictured) Leslie Brodhead guided the development of this Long-Range Interpretive Plan along with input from dozens of park coworkers and partners.

3444 34 Harpers Ferry Interpretive Design Center (HFC)

Jack Spinnler Interpretive Planner (Team Captain) Michael Paskowsky Project Manager, Workflow Management Mitch Zetlin Visual Information Specialist, Exhibits Don Branch Visual Information Specialist, Exhibits John Brucksch Supervisor, Media Services Andy Chamberlain Staff Curator, Historic Furnishing Michele Hartley Producer, Audiovisual Arts Ed Boutte AV Equipment Specialist Ed Zahniser Senior Editor, Publications Kris Klein Student Intern Bob Clark NPS Sign Manager, NPS Strategic Initiatives Phil Musselwhite Associate Manager, NPS Strategic Initiatives Lauren Morrison Visual Information Specialist, NPS Strategic Intiatives David Guiney Director, HFC Interpretive Media Institute Rich Helman Wayside Exhibit Planner, HFC Media Services Cindy Hall Cost Estimator, Workflow Management Linda Thomas Project Assistant, Workflow Management

Northeast Regional Office

Kathy Dilonardo Chief of Interpretation Joanne Blacoe Interpretive Planner

Valley Forge National Historical Park

Barbara Pollaraine Deputy Superintendent

Hopewell Furnace National Historical Park

Jeff Collins Chief of Interpretation

3445 Independence National Historical Park Interpretive Themes Theme Concepts and ideas included in the theme “TANGIBLES” Topics, stories, people Sites related to theme

What was “revolutionary” about • Causes and effects of the American Revolution Declaration of Independence Independence Hall the American Revolution? • The context of the revolutionary era—the Enlightenment and U.S. Constitution Independence Square the Atlantic world in which these events took place. Articles of Confederation Congress Hall Bill of Rights American Philosophical Society The American Revolution was the result • The political, religious, scientific and social ideas both good and PA Constitution of 1776 buildings of new ideas expressed in our founding bad that fostered revolutionary changes and their affects. Charter of Privileges Old City Hall documents, which created profound • The innovations and ideas that shaped the revolution and early VA Declaration of Rights Washington Square changes in power, perception and op- years of US government. President’s House portunity that continue to affect people • The uncertainty, fear and debate as brand new forms of govern- People/leaders: Washington, Adams, Deshler-Morris Jefferson, Madison, Franklin, Mor- Franklin Court in the United States and around the ment were created, tried and sometimes replaced. world. ris, Hamilton, Aurora Subscription Office • The effects on the people and the economy as ideas of govern- Military Museum ment went from theory into practice. “ordinary people” such as First Bank of the United States • The influence of the American Revolution on other countries The artisan/merchant class Site of the Treasury office some who also experienced revolutions in their governments. Second Bank of the United States, French Alliance Carpenters’ Hall • The American model of democracy, compared to monarchy or The Enlightenment and constitutional monarchy. The Atlantic world Historic Places of Worship and • The ideas that this was a “civil war”, not just the American Revo- Burial grounds lution. Includes stories of families, like the Franklins who were Slave trade torn apart by political beliefs; groups such as Quakers whose Abolition and anti slavery Franklin Institute neutrality was suspect to both sides, Petitions Bartram’s Garden • How relevant is a 200 year old government system to our world Scientific discovery today. Transit of Venus The Great Awakening Popular press Pa Gazette Common Sense, The Crisis, by Thomas Paine

Precedents set in 1790’s by the Federal government & Presidency Checks and Balances Federal Banking issues Commerce US economic system Supreme Court Military under civilian power

Global impact of the Revolution Revolutions in other countries

3446 Independence National Historical Park Interpretive Themes

Theme Title and Some examples of concepts and ideas to be included in “TANGIBLES” Interpretive Theme Statement the theme Some Examples– Some Examples– representing types of representing types of topics and stories that locations and resources could be told under this that could illustrate the concept–more topics concept. (May include may be added later sites in and outside the park)

Liberty: The Promises • The two sides of liberty—the promises and ideals articulated in Liberty Bell Liberty Bell and the Paradoxes founding documents like the Declaration and Constitution and Underground Railroad Independence Hall the paradoxes faced by people over the years who struggled for President’s House Independence Square Deshler Morris House liberty and equality. Deshler Morris House The promises of liberty and equality Stories of signers, soldiers, ordinary President’s House granted in the founding documents • People who took risks in the cause of liberty: signers, soldiers, people and enslaved people taking Franklin Court present a paradox: not only are they ordinary people, the enslaved etc. (Provides “common ground” risks for liberty. Aurora Subscription ideals to strive for but also unfulfilled to discuss different types of people/different times.) Society of Friends & Free Quakers Office promises for people who struggle to be • Conflicts about ideas of liberty and how to obtain it, as seen People: Wm. Penn & Penn family, Military Museum fully included as citizens of our nation. through debate, protests, riots, dialogue, art, and writing. Jefferson, Bishop White, Washing- Bishop White House ton, Oney Judge, Hercules, Todd House • Role of public dissent & the press in maintaining liberty BF Bache (Aurora), Richard Allen, Free Quaker Meeting • The irony and paradox of enslaved Africans living in the Presi- Absalom Jones, Franklin & PA Washington Square dent’s House in Philadelphia; Washington’s role in rotating the Abolitionist Society, Declaration & First Amendment areas enslaved servants out of PA to deny freedom. Constitution Signers: Morris, Rush, Historic Places of Worship Issue of suffrage for women: Abigail and burial grounds • Suffrage & political influence of various groups, example of free Adams, blacks property owners who won, lost and regained right to vote Walking Purchase & Native Valley Forge NHP • The uneven path to manumission and emancipation. American relations Justice Bell • People who fought against injustice, both leaders & followers. First and Second Continental Morristown NHP Congresses John & Sam Adams, • Who can become a citizen and the responsibilities and privileges Gettysburg and the Gettysburg of citizenship. Address Women’s Rights NHS • Tolerance and intolerance towards different religious beliefs Alice Paul • Struggles for liberty and power, “haves” and “have nots”-class, Martin Luther King, Jr. NHS religion, ethnic, racial, gender, etc. Brown v. Board of Education NHS • The modern application of 18th-century political theory, for Central High School NHS National Archives example in the civil rights movement Monuments in Wash DC • Philadelphia as vital link on the Underground Railroad. • Other historic “sites of liberty” throughout the world. • Examines how one person can hold conflicting ideas at the same time. How popular opinion or common practice affects individuals and society.

3447 Independence National Historical Park Interpretive Themes

Independence NHP Theme Concepts and ideas included in the theme “TANGIBLES” Topics, stories, people Sites related to theme

E Pluribus Unum: • The range of diversity that makes up the United States—the dif- 1st Continental Congress Independence Hall Out of Many, One ferent people, backgrounds, religious beliefs, political beliefs and 2nd Continental Congress Congress Hall political ideas. Participants in Congresses West Wing Documents exhibit The Constitutional convention issues Old City Hall The motto - E Pluribus Unum - • The dynamic tension that results from these differences-and how this affects issues such as federal v. state control over banking, The Great Compromise Independence Square meaning “out of many, one” illustrates (House & Senate) money, taxes, etc. Washington Square a distinctive characteristic of the United Bill of Rights, especially Military Museum States—a democratic nation of many • Protection of the expression of these diverse ideas is in the First Amendment Todd House states and diverse people with different founding documents, such as the First Amendment of the U.S. Federalist Papers Bishop White House cultures, beliefs, political ideas- which Constitution. Anti-Federalists Franklin Court contributes to the dynamic tension and • What are the common beliefs and ideals held by the diverse Interpreting the Constitution Printing Office growth of American society. people and groups of the United States. Treasury act Aurora Office Federal v. state banks: Morris, Haym Carpenters Hall • The effects of these differences, where they came from, what the Salomon, Hamilton, Jefferson Biddle, Slate Roof House/Welcome Park effects are and how they continue. Jackson First Bank • Divisiveness and compromise: the range of different formal and Tensions between: urban/rural, Second Bank informal ways change takes place in the US for example, legal strong federal system/local control, Dock Creek area means (legislative and judicial), debate, protest, boycotts, eco- etc. Thaddeus Kosciuszko NM nomic pressures, even military actions How the government of US was Historic Places of Worship and created by and continues with the burial grounds in Philadelphia • The many “shades of gray” that can inform or comprise an issue. consent of “We the People”. American Philosophical Society • Trends and shifts in loyalty, positions, issues, ideas. Penn’s “Holy Experiment” and • The US never felt like a homogeneous population to 18th- religious liberties in PA Polish-American Cultural Center century people—only later did it seem so to people outside that Philadelphia as the capital city- PA Hospital, a place that tolerated people with other historic sites in region society. How did they view their world? different religious beliefs • The issue of voluntary vs. involuntary inclusion in community Yellow Fever Epidemics such as the issue of enslaved and native Americans. Narrative.. Proceedings of the Black • Issues of tolerance and intolerance. People... by A. Jones, R. Allen Steve Girard- Bush Hill • The continuing struggle to incorporate diverse voices, beliefs, Hospital opinions. Vitriolic political press and • How the American system of government has continued for so campaigns long despite constant and often vitriolic debate. Benjamin Franklin Bache Riots in Independence Sq. Loyalists, patriots and all those in-between The military: as vehicle for social change creating a single unit out of many parts - Washington. Foreign alliances and volunteers -Kosciuszko, Steuben, DeKalb, Lafayette, etc. Philadelphia as a port city and the rise of China trade 3448 Independence National Historical Park Interpretive Themes

Independence NHP Theme Concepts and ideas included in the theme “TANGIBLES” Topics, stories, people Sites related to theme

Benjamin Franklin- the relevant • The evolution of a revolutionary and how the American Revolu- Runaway apprentice printer – Franklin Court revolutionary tion split families between loyalists and patriots since Franklin’s seeking liberty Site of Mansion house son remained a loyalist. Leather apron man (Ghost Structure) Market Street Houses Benjamin Franklin was revolutionary • A man of the enlightenment who used these ideas to change his life and the entire Atlantic world as he grew wealthy. Printer- Pa Gazette U.S. Post Office in his thinking and actions, he struggled Poor Richards Almanac Printing Office to achieve liberty, but did not always • How Franklin use the power of the press and his improved Way to Wealth Fragments of FC extend it to others, and he worked to postal system to spread revolutionary ideas and bring people Join or Die Cartoon Underground Museum bring many people together for common together to act on these ideas. power of the press, skill with words Christ Church Burial Ground goals. • The revolutionary changes and metamorphosis he went through –use of humor letters, pamphlets during his lifetime including his revolutionary discoveries about Public Relations Liberty Bell electricity. Creation of civic organizations – Fire Carpenters’ Hall Companies, Insurance Companies, American Philosophical Society Hall • The two sides of liberty—one side represented by the noble Subscription Library, Pa. Hospital Library Hall words he signed in the Declaration of Independence and the Independence Hall other side seen his attempt to control his children’s choices Role of Science – electricity Military Museum (although they rebelled against him anyway.) investigations, Gulf stream mapping Portrait Gallery • How one person can hold conflicting ideas at the same time. Magic squares, Franklin Stove, no Declaration House patents City Tavern • His change in conscience from a small time slave owner and tacit Dock Creek Area supporter of enslavement to a supporter and President of the Politics,- local & national Abolition movement in Pennsylvania at the end of his life Diplomacy – with UK PA Hospital • How he was able to bring diverse groups and people together & French Alliance Thomas Bond House for common goals such as creating fire fighting companies, fire Fireman’s Museum insurance, building a library or writing a new constitution. Music as example of an educated Contributionship Insurance person and Entertainment with Company • The ability he cultivated to get diverse people to agree. friends Elfreth’s Alley • He willingness to listen to other opinions and to sometimes Christ Church and other historic change his opinion, but more often theirs. Personal effect of Revolution on places of worship • What it is that makes Franklin seem to be the most modern families Franklin Institute founding father? Loyalist son vs. patriot father Bartram’s Garden University of Pennsylvania Tolerance and support for various churches in Philadelphia

Declaration Constitution Articles of Confederation PA Constitution The Enlightenment

Slave trade & Abolition

3449 BACK COVER