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The Historian · Eleanor · New York

Federal Hall National Memorial

Financial District · Civic landmark / museum · Free

Stand on these steps and you're on the spot where Washington took the first presidential oath in 1789 — but I always correct people: the original Federal Hall was demolished in 1812. This 1842 Greek Revival building (a former Custom House and Sub-Treasury) marks the site, not the room. The distinction is the whole point of history.

Where Washington was inaugurated and the first Congress met — though not in the building you see.

— Eleanor, The Historian
The move — Eleanor's insider tip for Federal Hall National Memorial — is in the app.
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