Known now as a day of patriotism and enjoying time off from work, the Fourth of July began the journey to becoming a quintessential American holiday in 1776, when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence.

The first-ever Independence Day took place in 1776—yet there are several homes across the U.S. that pre-date that historic time.

Booming fireworks, patriotic parades, and outdoor barbeques have become annual traditions, and many employees enjoy the day off of work for the federal holiday. July 4, also known as Independence Day,