Philadelphia was known in colonial times as the "Athens of America" because of its rich cultural life. Because of the liberality of William Penn's principles and the freedom of expression that prevailed, the province developed a conspicuous variety and strength in its intellectual and educational institutions and interests. In 1755, the only nondenominational college of the colonial period was in Philadelphia. The arts and sciences flourished, and the public buildings of Philadelphia were the marvel of the colonies. Many fine old buildings in the Philadelphia area still bear witness to the richness of Pennsylvania's civilization in the eighteenth century. Such men of intellect as Benjamin Franklin, David Rittenhouse, John Bartram, and Benjamin West achieved international renown. Newspapers and magazines flourished, as did law and medicine. Philadelphia can claim America's first hospital, first library, and first insurance company.
WHERE WAS AMERICA'S FIRST HOSPITAL ????
PHILADELPHIA = N 40 49.243 W 078 53.566
PITTSBURGH = N 40 48.582 W 078 53.758
CONGRATULATIONS TO schmuck&puttz FOR THE FTF