The date of origin for the Independence Hall weather vane is unknown, yet it is clear that this building element has long been a part of this historic structure.  Independence Hall was originally constructed between 1732 and 1756 and is known for its role in several of the historic documents that helped to shape our country’s history, including the Declaration of Independence.  The building has seen many different renovations throughout the years including one in 1828 by William Strickland, which recreated the steeple to resemble the original. The building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966.

The weather vane consists of three separate parts: the weather vane, the crown, and the time ball, all of which sit upon a spindle from building’s clock tower. During the restoration of Independence Hall, the spindle and weather vane pieces were removed to be re-gilded.  While removing the previous campaign of gilding, it was determined that further treatment was needed.  Kreilick Conservation, LLC was brought in for the conservation work, which included soldering the globe, forging a replacement piece of wrought iron for the broken rear strap, hot riveting and straightening some of the wrought iron, repairs to the main shaft, and the reattachment of broken pieces from the crown.  All repairs were followed by gilding the three main pieces, as well as the tip of the spindle. All phases of the project were thoroughly documented, including photography, paint analysis and AutoCAD drawings.  This project won a Grand Jury Award from the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia in 2012.