#travelwithgdp Fact: The Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were both debated and signed inside Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Description: “We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal…” – The park represents the founding ideals of the nation, and preserves national and international symbols of freedom and democracy, […]
#travelwithgdp Fact: The white marble original, installed on the north side of Independence Hall, was dedicated on July 2, 1869, by mayor Daniel M. Fox. It is now located in Conversation Hall, Philadelphia City Hall. A bronze replica replaced the original, and was dedicated in October 1910. Description: The statue of George Washington, by Joseph A. […]
#travelwithgdp Fact: The Liberty Bell became famous after an 1847 short story claimed that an aged bellringer rang it on July 4, 1776, upon hearing of the Second Continental Congress’ vote for independence. Despite the fact that the bell did not ring for independence on that July 4, the tale was widely accepted as fact, even […]
#travelwithgdp Fact: Houston Hall started as the first student union in the nation and opened on January 2, 1896. As the first student union in the United States, Houston had some liberty to gather influence and set the tone for what would eventually become a common center at any modern university. In particular, Houston drew its […]
#travelwithgdp Fact: For over 40 years, the Houston Space Center has been the starting point for all of the astronaut training programs. Over 3,000 men and women began their careers in this facility.
#travelwithgdp Fact: Austin is the 11th-most populous city in the United States and the 4th-most populous city in Texas.
#travelwithgdp Fact: In 1882, Austin began construction of the Texas State Capitol because it thought the original capitol building, erected in 1853, too small. Description: The Texas State Capitol and grounds are located on a hilltop overlooking downtown Austin. Designed in 1881 by architect Elijah E. Myers, it was constructed from 1882 to 1888 under the […]
#travelwithgdp Fact: The Goddess of Liberty statue, which was installed on top of the Capitol’s dome by helicopter, stands almost 16 feet tall and weighs 2,000 pounds. She carries a gigantic sword and a golden star, symbols of justice and Texas pride.
#travelwithgdp Fact: According to NBC DFW, it has been reported that the monument is meant to honor Texas service members who have risked their lives since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, as well as their family members.
#travelwithgdp Fact: The bridge is named for Percy V. Pennybacker Jr., who designed bridges for the Texas Highway Department and was a pioneer in the technology of welded structures.