Centuries ago, America’s founding fathers met together in Independence Hall to sign the Constitution that serves as the foundation for the United States of America. On that famous day, September 17, the Articles of Confederation were abolished and replaced with a system of checks and balances for a better government. This year, the cities around the nation celebrate the 231st anniversary with a flurry of parades, speeches and informative activities throughout Constitution Week.
Americans have been celebrating Independence Day and President’s Day since the late 1800s. Yet, it wasn’t until a few decades ago when the question arose as to when Americans should celebrate the Constitution.
1939 – William Randolph Hearst suggested a holiday be created to celebrate American citizenship. Due to his large influence in New York, the suggestion motivated Congress to designate the third Sunday in May as “I Am an American Day.”
1952 – Olga T. Weber petitioned Louisville, Ohio city leaders to change this holiday to the anniversary of the signing of the Constitution, September 17. After the city agreed, Weber took her request to the State and Congress.
1952 – On December 13, the Constitution and Declaration of Independence were moved from the Library of Congress to the National Archives. These documents joined the Bill of Rights, becoming the “Charters of Freedom,” and are on public display.
1953 – With Senate and House approval, Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the holiday into law, officially changing “I Am an American Day” to “Citizenship Day” and moving it to September 17, the same day the Constitution was signed.
1957 – In April, the Louisville City Council declared the city “Constitution Town.”
1977 – Louise Leigh founded Constitution Day, Inc, a non-profit organization, with the goal to increase recognition of the holiday’s importance across America.
2004 – In December, President George W. Bush signed Constitution Day into law, making it an official holiday alongside Citizenship Day.
Philadelphia boasts many museums about the founding fathers and Constitution. Learn while you travel by spending Constitution Day at Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center. Admission is free on September 17 and guests can join in eating cake alongside actors of the founding fathers.
Extend your trip by visiting the Constitution in person at the National Archives located in Washington D.C. This magnificent four-page document serves as the supreme law of the United States and will be the highlight of your trip.
Best Western Hotels & Resorts has locations in Philadelphia and in other patriotic destinations around the country. Book your stay now and begin your plans to celebrate Constitution Week right away.