Christ Church - Philadelphia, PA
by Susan Rissi Tregoning
Title
Christ Church - Philadelphia, PA
Artist
Susan Rissi Tregoning
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
Established in 1695 as a requirement of William Penn's Charter, Christ Church holds the honor of being the birthplace of the American Episcopal Church. It earned the title "The Nation's Church" for hosting Continental Congress members during the American Revolution and welcoming Presidents George Washington and John Adams in the Republic's early years. The church's early membership boasted notable figures such as Benjamin and Deborah Franklin, Betsy Ross, John Penn (grandson of William Penn), and signers of both the Constitution and Declaration of Independence, including Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, and Francis Hopkinson.
The current building dates back to 1744 and has been recognized as our best Early American church and one of the finest Georgian buildings in the United States. One of America's earliest architects, Robert Smith, designed the 196-foot-tall steeple in 1754. A lottery arranged by Benjamin Franklin funded it. The steeple stood as the tallest structure in North America for 56 years, making Christ Church a notable landmark.
Independence National Historical Park includes Christ Church, which is privately managed. Additionally, the church serves as an active Episcopal parish, offers daily tours, and talks about its historical significance.
Copyright 2023 Susan Rissi Tregoning
Uploaded
June 10th, 2023
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