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The Fourth of July feels extra special in Philadelphia, the birthplace of America.
These snapshots of Philly history — some comforting, others not so much — serve as a reminder of how this city has celebrated Independence Day over the last century.
1926
A seated crowd and light traffic outside of the Art Museum while a program is conducted on the steps. People are also gathered on Eakins Oval to hear the program.
1927
Not all historic celebrations should be celebrated years later. In 1927, the Ku Klux Klan observed of the Fourth of July with a parade in Frankford.
1951
Grace Stanton stitches a large flag for the annual Fourth of July celebration in Fairmount Park.
1958
Portraits of the presidents of the United States, each on a six-by-eight foot canvas, are assembled in Independence Mall for the 14th annual Bulletin Independence Day celebration.
1970
A family enjoys a picnic at Fairmount Park on the Schuylkill River bank while watching the annual Independence Day Regatta.
1973
Prize-winning participants in the morning Lawncrest parade were Sandy Connor, 9, and her brother, John, 12, of Benner Street, who rode a float as Martha and George Washington.
1976
Women discuss the Fourth of July Coalition at Frankford Avenue and Overington Street.
1978
Fireworks explode over Independence Hall.
