Independence Hall - Tower Stair Hall
by Susan Rissi Tregoning
Title
Independence Hall - Tower Stair Hall
Artist
Susan Rissi Tregoning
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
The blue Tower Stair Hall in Independence Hall, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
From 1750 to 1765, the south side of Independence Hall was enhanced with a masonry clock tower and a wooden steeple. This addition resulted in the creation of the Tower Stair Hall, which boasts an impressive staircase leading up to the second floor. Benjamin Franklin, who held the position of Pennsylvania's Governor from 1785 to 1788, frequently used the walnut handrail on this staircase as it led to his office on the second floor.
The staircase features an open newel and open string design, allowing it to turn around a light well and display visible riser and tread profiles. Its intricate details include scroll-carved friezes on each landing and scroll and leaf brackets on the sides of the steps. The three-panel Venetian window is adorned with decorative pilasters featuring carved bell flowers and ionic capitals.
Copyright 2023 Susan Rissi Tregoning
Uploaded
June 14th, 2023
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