Philadelphia is an incredibly historic city, filled with many interesting facts that kids would enjoy learning about. One fascinating fact is that Philadelphia is home to the first library in the United States. It was established in 1731 and was called the Library Company of Philadelphia. This library provided access to books and knowledge for people in the city, and it paved the way for the development of public libraries throughout the country.
Another important fact is that Philadelphia is where the first cancer hospital was built. The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, which opened in 1890, was at the forefront of cancer treatment and research. It provided specialized care for patients with cancer, and its groundbreaking work helped shape the field of oncology.
Additionally, Philadelphia is home to the first children’s hospital in the United States. The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) was founded in 1855 and has been dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare for children ever since. It has made significant contributions to pediatric medicine and continues to be a leader in the field.
Philadelphia is also known for having the first medical school in the United States. The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine was founded in 1765, and it has a long history of training doctors and conducting medical research. Many important discoveries and advancements in medicine have come out of this institution.
Did you know that Philadelphia was once the national capital of the United States? Before Washington, D.C. became the capital, Philadelphia served as the temporary capital from 1790 to 1800. During this time, important government buildings were constructed, including the President’s House and Congress Hall. It was an exciting period in Philadelphia’s history, as the city played a central role in shaping the early years of the United States.
In the realm of arts and culture, Philadelphia boasts the first musical auditorium in the country. The Academy of Music, which opened in 1857, has been a venue for opera, ballet, and other performances for over 150 years. It has hosted world-renowned artists and continues to be a prominent cultural landmark in the city.
Philadelphia is also known for being the birthplace of the first stock exchange in the United States. The Philadelphia Stock Exchange, founded in 1790, was where people could buy and sell stocks and bonds. This paved the way for the development of the modern stock market and had a significant impact on the financial industry.
For kids who love animals, Philadelphia is home to the first zoo in the United States. The Philadelphia Zoo opened its doors in 1874 and has been a popular attraction ever since. It is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world and offers educational programs and exhibits that teach children about wildlife conservation.
Last but not least, Philadelphia is where the first business school in the United States was established. The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania was founded in 1881 and has become one of the top business schools in the world. It has produced many successful business leaders and entrepreneurs, and its programs continue to be highly regarded.
Philadelphia is a city filled with many firsts and historical landmarks. From the first library to the first children’s hospital, the city has played a significant role in shaping various fields and industries. Exploring these facts about Philadelphia can provide kids with a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history and contributions to society.
