First and Second Continental Congress: Locations and Dates

Two pivotal assemblies in Philadelphia forged American independence and governance.

First Continental Congress (1774)

Venue: Carpenters' Hall, 320 Chestnut Street.
Dates: September 5 – October 26, 1774.
Delegates: 56 from 12 colonies (Georgia absent).
Key Actions: Suffolk Resolves endorsement, Continental Association (boycott), Declaration of Rights, petition to King George III, agreement to reconvene.

Second Continental Congress (1775-1781)

Venue: Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall), Chestnut Street between 5th & 6th.
Dates: May 10, 1775 – March 1, 1781 (Articles of Confederation ratification).
Key Actions: Continental Army creation (Washington appointed), Olive Branch Petition, Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776), Articles of Confederation drafted (1777), foreign alliances (France 1778).

Historical Context

Both met in Philadelphia—then largest colonial city (40k), central location, intellectual hub. Carpenters' Hall rented; State House hosted Pennsylvania assembly upstairs. The same building witnessed Constitution drafting (1787).

Visiting Today

Independence National Historical Park preserves both sites. Carpenters' Hall (privately owned, free entry). Independence Hall (timed tickets, NPS guided tours). Original rising sun chair, silver inkstand displayed.