Congress Hall was the first meeting place of the United States Congress. The first American flag is reputed to have been made, in 1777, at Betsy Ross House. The first Continental Congress met in 1774 at Carpenter's Hall. Philadelphia has an extensive park system, covering nearly 8000 acres and comprising more than 170 parks, parkways and playgrounds. The City also maintains a zoological garden and botanical gardens.
Ethnic diversity gives the city the feel of a loose confederation of neighborhoods.
Jewish, Italian, African and Asian communities add spice to the city's German, Irish, Polish, Native American and Slavic base. The most recent immigrants are Russian. The following links are provided to help you explore the vast historical, commercial and cultural riches of Philadelphia. Us Last updated September 1, 1997. Copyright 1996 Online96 Information Technology .