Declaration of Independence

Declaration of Independence by artist Peter Pagast is located on the former Elkins Memorial YMCA building in Center City Philadelphia. The artist looked to Greek gods and mythologies for a symbol that would personify the idea of leadership. The statue portrayed is modeled after one that is located inside City Hall, which is located a block south of the mural. Often referred to as the city’s 2000th mural, the artist added the Declaration of Independence to connect the image of the city’s history with the Republican Convention that was taking place in Philadelphia during the summer of 2000.

Location Note: The lower portion of the mural (including the credits) were painted out ca. 2018.