The Second Bank of the United States Portrait Gallery is inside a Greek Revival building at 420 Chestnut St in Philadelphia’s Independence National Historical Park. Its roughly 200 portraits include Founding Fathers, early political leaders, explorers and scientists, with many works by Philadelphia painter Charles Willson Peale. Look for rooms devoted to miniature portraits and objects from Peale’s natural history museum. The marble exterior and large columns are also worth a look, even if you only have time to stop outside.
The gallery and its collection
The Second Bank building now houses the People of Independence portrait gallery, part of Independence National Historical Park. Its collection includes roughly 200 portraits of Founding Fathers, early leaders, explorers and other people connected with the country’s early history. Many were painted by Charles Willson Peale, a Philadelphia artist who was also a scientist and naturalist.
The portraits show prominent figures as well as people who played less familiar roles in American independence. Among the subjects are George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and early leaders from different fields. One portrait of Thomas Jefferson is notable for showing him with red hair.
Miniatures and Peale’s museum
Look beyond the larger portraits for rooms of miniature paintings. Small portraits could be carried by their owners, much like a personal photograph kept close today. The gallery also includes paintings and natural history objects associated with Peale’s museum, reflecting his work beyond portraiture.
The rooms bring together art and objects connected with early American life. Ask a ranger about the people depicted and the works on display; guided tours can add historical context to what you see.
The Greek Revival building
William Strickland designed the Second Bank building in a Greek Revival style, with a form inspired by the Parthenon in Athens. Its marble exterior and prominent Doric columns make it one of the area’s distinctive early American monuments. The building was constructed for the Second Bank of the United States, which operated from 1816 until its charter ended in 1836.
The gallery is at 420 Chestnut St, among the historic places in Independence National Historical Park. The Signers’ Garden is nearby, along with other sites connected with the country’s founding.
Planning a visit
The National Park Service manages the gallery. Admission is free, and the provided visitor information says you do not need a reservation. Renovation work may affect access to parts of the building, so check the park’s website for current updates before setting out.
If the interior is unavailable, you can still see the building from outside. Sunset is suggested for outdoor photographs. For photography sessions, the supplied information notes that a permit is required.
FAQ
Is admission to the Second Bank Portrait Gallery free?
Yes. The supplied information states that admission is free and no reservation is required.
What is inside the Second Bank Portrait Gallery?
The gallery has roughly 200 portraits of early Americans, many by Charles Willson Peale. It also includes miniature portraits and natural history objects connected with Peale’s museum.
Who designed the Second Bank building?
William Strickland designed the building in the Greek Revival style, with a design inspired by the Parthenon.
Can you take photographs at the Second Bank?
A permit is required for photography sessions. For casual exterior photos, sunset is suggested.
