"Philadelphia" a Philadelphia Travel Page by seagoingJLW

and what a city it is! There is so much to see and do here. And there are so many unusual facts about this city. For instance, did you know that from 1800 until 1830 Philadelphia was the largest city in the United States? In 1800 the 6th largest American town was Northern Liberties (now a part of Philadelphia) and the 7th was Southwark (now also a part of Philadelphia.) by 1854 all of the outlying districts were incorporated into the city.

The original city was laid out by William Penn. Boy! has it grown since then.

Some interesting Philadelphia Firsts:
1. Feb 12, 1698 First public school in the colonies.
2. 1719 First fire engine bought for a municipality.
3. 1729 First botanical garden in America.
4. July 1, 1731 First public library in America.
5. 1749 First company of American stage actors
6. Nov. 26, 1762 First school of anatomy in North America
7. 1766 First permanent theater.
8. 1774 First Anti Slavery Society
9. 1777 First US flag on record made by Betsy Ross.
10. 1789 First Congress of the United States met here.
11. 1790 First law school in America
12. 1876 First World's Fair