Independence National Historical Park is the fourth most visited national park in the country, but Philadelphia Magazine reporter David Murrell says it’s falling apart. During his visits to Independence Hall and other buildings in the park, he documented peeling paint, plaster falling off walls, and, in some cases, serious safety issues. Why aren’t Independence Hall and its park better maintained? And what does that say about the American government that was born there?

Disclosure: WHYY President Bill Marrazzo is chair of the Independence Historical Trust.