The address follows: Today. in this historic Faneull Hall. revered by all American patriots but especially beloved by Bostonians. we come together to commemorate the 179th signing of the Declaration of Independence. You may guess with what emotion. with what a mingled sense of pride and humbleness I speak to you today. in this place. known throughout America as the cradle of liberty. I remember that well over two centuries ago. Peter Faneuil. a Huguenot refugee from the political and religious intolerance of an old world king fled to Boston. that he prospered and was happy here. and that in gratitude he gave this hall to his townsfolk for a marketplace. Before the last brick had been laid. Peter Faneuil died.