Federal Hall National Memorial

Federal Hall National Memorial is at 26 Wall St. near Nassau St. At this site on April 30, 1789, crowds gathered on Wall Street to observe the second-floor balcony of the original 1703 structure as George Washington was sworn in as the first president of the United States. The building where the inauguration took place had been built for the purpose of housing the British royal governor's council and the assembly of New York, ultimately becoming New York City Hall. Throughout the 1700s, the building served other functions and eventually became the nation's capitol in 1785 following the American Revolution.

The original Federal Hall was demolished by 1812, and the present stately Greek Revival structure was erected in its place in 1842, initially operating as the Customs House. Twenty years later, it was converted to a federal sub-treasury, storing millions of dollars' worth of gold and silver in basement vaults until the Federal Reserve Bank occupied the facility in 1920.

The museum highlights the site's storied history as well as the landmark events which occurred within. Displays feature material pertaining to Washington's inauguration, old Federal Hall and the Bill of Rights, which passed here in 1790. Special events and programs also are available.

Note: Ongoing restoration work can take years to complete, and scaffolding still covers sections of the exterior.

Guided tours are available.