The Second Bank of the United States
I was just taking a break from the summer heat here in Philadelphia. I found a little shaded area which had seats and rested for a while. The American Philosophical Society Hall was a surprise find as these halls once sheltered the most brilliant minds in the United States. Unfortunately, it seemed to be closed. I didn’t really know what to do here. But I had a feeling there just walking around would bring me some interesting places. I was surprised to know that the city of Philadelphia used to be a capital of the United States. Apparently, it was just a temporary capital since Washington D.C. was still under construction.
Close Up of the Second Bank of the United States
It is not surprising then to know that Philadelphia has a lot of these historical places. Just beside the American Philosophical Society Hall was a white building which looks more like it was from Athens. This was the Second Bank of the United States. Second bank? I’m not so clear about it either but it was a private corporation which sort of served some central bank functions. This bank was established as part of a plan to strengthen the American financial system. I think this was some sort of precursor to the Federal Reserve. Anyway, the building itself seemed to off limits to visitors since it seemed to be under restoration. Not really that interesting, it did make me think. If there was a Second Bank of the United States then is there a First Bank of the United States. Turns out there really is, and it is also in Philadelphia, but I didn’t get to see it.
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