Independence Hall in American Memory argues that buildings may be viewed as records of public memory through the process of their creation, use, alterations, and preservation. Using the book with the following images as prompts, discuss the reasons for each of the following changes in the exterior and interior of the Pennsylvania State House, later known as Independence Hall. (Illustrations provided by Independence National Historical Park.)

Exterior

1. Addition of tower and steeple, 1751-53:

2. Demolition of steeple, 1781:

3. Addition of City Hall and County Court House (later known as Congress Hall), 1785-91:

4. Demolition of piazzas and construction of office row, 1811-12:

5. Construction of new steeple, 1828:

6. Recreated piazzas, 1898:

Interior

1. East Room, first floor (later known as Assembly Room) redecoration, 1855:

2. East room, first floor (later known as Assembly Room) redecoration, 1876:

3. Assembly Room, National Park Service restoration (present):