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

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.

For more information, watch the video above and visit their website.

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