Tolling bells, striking clock mark historic hour of 1776

There is nothing quite as patriotic as being in Philadelphia on the Fourth of July. Not only is it awash with visitors from here, there and everywhere, but flags are flying and historic sites to visit beckon to be seen. It is also a time that gives pause to members of the Pennsylvania Society Sons of the Revolution (PSSR) who stop, think and honor long gone patriots and just how this nation came into being.

For many years the families of these forefathers have gathered at the Society Hill Sheraton for brunch, as well as a little business, before marching to Independence Hall on the cobblestoned streets once trod by the likes of George Washington and Stephen Hopkins. Flags from the colonies were unfurled as bagpipers led the parade to the rear of the building where the Declaration for Independence came into being on July 4, 1776

Not only did Mayor Jim Kenney stop by to give a shout out to the patriots, waiting until the bell chimed at 2 p.m., but the park’s superintendent, Cynthia Macleod, had not only come to the brunch but also marched with the patriots’ descendants, up to the Hall. Michael Quinn, president and CEO of the Museum of the American Revolution, took his turn at the podium as well encouraging the audience to stop by the latest treasure in Philly’s historical chest.

With the latter building now up and running, Philadelphia has commandeered quite a bit of precious real estate in which to immerse one’s self when it comes to understanding about the City of Brotherly Love.

Before heading to the Liberty Bell ringing ceremonies Lanny Patten of Villanova stops to speak with J. Thomas Showler of Philadelphia and the National Park’s Philadelphia Superintendent Cynthia McLeod.

Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney speaks to the assemblage before the clock strikes 2 p.m.

Dawn, Paul and Margaret Di Stefano of Paoli find a spot in the shade as they await the parade of flags and opening remarks by Mayor Kinney.

Dames, daughters and Sons of the Revolution work their way to Constitution Hall led by the Color Guard and Drum Corps.

Devon resident Mark Ward opts to carry a flag with stars for the parade to Independence Hall.

Colonial Dame Ann Patten of Villanova gets a moment with the Museum of the American Revolution’s President and CEO Michael Quinn.

Color Guard Captain Erik E.L. Guenther goes over the last minute instructions and procedures with W. Murray Gordon of Paoli.