Marines Mark 251st Birthday at Future Tun Site

Marines from across the country came to Philadelphia on November 10 for the Marine Corps’ 251st birthday. The third annual block party took place in a paved space on South 2nd Street, near the stretch joining Market and Chestnut streets, where a group plans to build a new version of Tun Tavern.

The original Tun Tavern is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Marine Corps, which began as the Continental Marines in 1775. The tavern was gone by 1781. Interstate 95 now runs over its former location, where a historical marker stands.

Marines visit the marker to pay their respects, remember fallen friends, take photographs or pour out a drink. The planned new tavern is intended to offer Marines from past, present and future generations a place to gather.

The Tun Legacy Foundation, formed by veterans, business owners and others, is leading the effort to rebuild the tavern a few blocks from its original site. Construction is planned to begin next year, with completion expected in summer 2029.