Washington Square
| Washington Square | |
|---|---|
| Type | Urban square / Historic park |
| Location | Center City, Philadelphia |
| Coordinates | 39.9469,-75.1524 |
| Area | 6.4 acres |
| Established | 1683 (planned); 1825 (named) |
| Operated by | National Park Service / Philadelphia Parks & Recreation |
| Features | Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, historic graves, walking paths |
| Transit | SEPTA bus routes; Independence Hall area |
| Website | Official Site |
Washington Square is one of William Penn's original five public squares in Philadelphia. It's among the most historically significant parks in America. Located in the Society Hill neighborhood near Independence Hall, the square served as a burial ground during the Revolutionary War and now houses the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier.[1]
It's a quiet refuge from the hustle of the historic district. Thousands of soldiers and citizens lie beneath its lawns.
History
Colonial Era
Penn's 1682 plan called it "Southeast Square." The land served as commons, pasture, and potter's field. A burial ground for the poor and unknown.
Revolutionary War
When the British occupied Philadelphia from 1777 to 1778, the square became something darker. A mass burial ground. American soldiers who died in captivity were buried here. Disease victims too. Poor and unidentified citizens.
Historians figure 2,000 to 3,000 people rest in Washington Square. But there's no way to tell where.
19th Century
In 1825, the square was renamed for George Washington. It transformed from burial ground into a proper park. Wealthy families built townhouses around it, and soon it was one of Philadelphia's most desirable neighborhoods.
20th Century
The Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier was dedicated in 1954. It memorializes the unmarked graves beneath the square. An eternal flame and Washington statue became the centerpiece.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The memorial at Washington Square's center honors the unknown soldiers of the Revolution:
Features
- Eternal Flame — Burns day and night
- Statue of George Washington — Bronze work by Jean-Antoine Houdon
- Inscription: "Freedom is a light for which many men have died in darkness"
- Wreath-laying ceremonies — Held on patriotic holidays
Significance
Arlington National Cemetery has its Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for 20th and 21st-century conflicts. Washington Square's tomb is different. It's the only monument specifically dedicated to unknown soldiers from the American Revolution.
The Square Today
Layout
- Diagonal walking paths crossing the square
- Central memorial area
- Mature shade trees
- Benches throughout
- Lawn areas (sitting permitted)
Atmosphere
This place feels different from Rittenhouse Square. Quieter. More contemplative. Office workers grab lunch here. People walk their dogs. It's good for reading and thinking about history.
Surrounding Area
The square sits at the intersection of:
- Walnut Street (north)
- 6th Street (east)
- Locust Street (south)
- Washington Square West neighborhood
You'll find these nearby:
- Athenaeum of Philadelphia — Historic library
- Curtis Center — Historic publishing building
- Independence Hall — Two blocks east
- Society Hill — Historic residential neighborhood
Events
- Memorial Day ceremony — Wreath laying at the tomb
- Independence Day — Patriotic observances
- Veterans Day — Commemorative events
Visiting
Getting There
Location: Bounded by Walnut, Locust, 6th, and Washington Square West
By Public Transit:
- Walk from Independence Hall area
- SEPTA buses serve Walnut and Chestnut Streets
- Market-Frankford Line: 5th Street Station
By Car:
- Street parking is tight; nearby garages work better
- Independence Mall parking facilities
Tips
- Combine with a visit to Independence Hall
- The eternal flame looks best at dusk
- The square's lovely in spring when the trees bloom
- It's a quieter option than busier tourist sites
See Also
References
- ↑ "Washington Square". National Park Service. Retrieved December 30, 2025