-Independence Hall- candy container 1876

This is an -Independence Hall- candy container by William R. Kirchner, made of glass. Here we see the adoption of Independence Hall as a symbol. A building meant to inspire ideals of patriotism, freedom, and unity now made as a container for candy. The architecture with arches and windows is not unique to this building. But in the context of the early United States, this architecture becomes charged with national identity. Think of the Roman arches appropriated by the French. Now, we see it appear in the United States as a marker of civilization. What was once a symbol of Roman authority now stands for American ideals. The desire to monumentalize one’s country is not unique. It has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts. It is a fascinating evolution of collective memory. The subconscious processes may have affected the production and interpretation of this motif.