Marines celebrate 251st birthday at future site of 'The Tun' in Philadelphia

Community Journalist Marines celebrate 251st birthday at future site of 'The Tun' in Philadelphia By Matteo Iadonisi Tuesday, November 10, 2026 10:29PM All eyes are on Philadelphia as it plans to recreate the historic 'Tun Tavern,' regarded as the birthplace of the United States Marine Corps. PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- Countless Marines came to Philadelphia today, celebrating their 251st birthday at the future site of 'The Tun' in Philadelphia. A former bar known as the 'Tun Tavern' is widely considered to be the birthplace of the United States Marine Corps (USMC) , then known as the 'Continental Marines,' in 1775. However, 'The Tun' has not stood since 1781. Instead, a historical marker overlooks a stretch of I-95, which was constructed on top of the former site of the bar. Many Marines are eager to visit the marker to pour out a drink, take a selfie, or simply pay respects for their fallen friends. Several years ago, a group of veterans, business owners, and more came together to form the The Tun Legacy Foundation. Their intention is to construct a reborn version of the bar just a few blocks from its original location. This way, Marines from the past, present, and future will have a place to gather and consider home. The future site of 'The Tun' is currently a parking lot on South 2nd Street between Market and Chestnut. And today, it was the site of the third annual block party commemorating the USMC's 251st birthday. Construction on 'The Tun' is planned to start next year and complete in the summer of 2029. Suspect wanted after Burlington shooting leaves man dead, 2 teens injured 28 minutes ago Man out on bail in Bucks County arson case now charged with drug trafficking 7 minutes ago Man accused of unlawful sexual contact with young girl; police say more victims are possible 1 hour ago For more information, watch the video above and visit their website. RELATED: World War II veteran, retired Philly firefighter celebrates 100th birthday "No regrets, no regrets," said 100-year-old WWII veteran and retired firefighter, Bill Kinee. "I wish I could have done more, that's all." Report a correction or typo Copyright © 2026 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved. Related Topics COMMUNITY & EVENTS PHILADELPHIA OLD CITY (PHILADELPHIA) COMMUNITY JOURNALIST FEEL GOOD MARINES VETERAN Twin brothers build 'Blast Robotics' team for kids in Philly region 17 minutes ago 77-year-old power lifter finds strength at 'Power Plant Gym' in Delco Philadelphia Veterans Parade honors those who fought for freedom World War II veteran, retired firefighter celebrates 100th birthday Watch Live ON NOW Suspect wanted after shooting leaves man dead, 2 teens injured 28 minutes ago Man out on bail in arson case now charged with drug trafficking 7 minutes ago Man accused of touching girl; police say more victims are possible 1 hour ago Bicyclist wanted for striking woman in Philadelphia's Chinatown Hegseth faces key House vote on impeachment | LIVE 14 minutes ago Bengals nix agreed-upon trade with Eagles, sources say 5 minutes ago S.S. United States sinking date moved up due to weather AccuWeather: Nice and mild for Veterans Day 1 hour ago