This terra-cotta colored Beaux-Arts building was built in the 1890s in the style of the German Bourse in Hamburg and is one of the first steel-framed buildings constructed. George E. Bartol was a grain exporter in Philadelphia at the turn of the twentieth century. When he returned from Europe, he organised the Philadelphia business community to fund this commodities exchange by having each member contribute $1,000 to the founding of the Philadelphia Bourse. It would be come the nation's first commodities exchange. The building was completed in 1895 and continued to run as a commodoties exchange until the 1960s.
"Buy, Sell, Ship via Philadelphia." - the Bourse motto
Today, the building services in a similar function as a retail space with shopping and a food court.
Attractions:
The Bourse is the new home to the interactive exhibit, Ben Franklin's Ghost. This free experience allows you to ask, and get answers, to questions about the founding father's life and experiences.
It is located on the Concourse Level, 5th Street side.
Directions:
111 S. Independence Mall East
Philadelphia, PA 19106
The Bourse is across the street from the Independence Mall so an easy location to find.
The Bourse Food Court and Shops are open:
Mon-Sat: 10am – 6pm (Year Round)
Sunday: 11am – 5pm (March through October only)
Parking: There is a parking garage at the Bourse. It is open 24 hours for public parking.
