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The Society of Freinds disowned or "read out" the group of Quakers who supported the rebellion in 1780. These Quakers met in the hone of Samuell Wetherill and others for the next few years. In 1783 and with the financial support of leading residents such as Robert Morris and supporters of the Revolution such as Benjamin Franklin and George Washington, the "Free Quakers" acquired land and began building this structure in 1783.&nbsp; &nbsp; Timothy Matlack,&nbsp;the individual who wrote out the Declaration of Independence, also drafted some of the plans for this structure. The building served as the home of several private schools in the later 1700s and early 1800s while doubling as a Quaker Meeting House. It later served as the home of the Apprentices' Library Company of Philadelphia. The building was also moved slightly west and south when 5th Street&nbsp;(N Independence Mall) was widened in the early 1960s.&nbsp; The meetinghouse was originally a one-story structure and a second story was added in 1788. At that time, the building was also home to John Poor's Academy for Young Ladies. The second building was also utilized by the Grand Lodge of the Freemasons&nbsp;from 1791 to 1799 and the Philadelphia Select Academy from 1800 to 1836. The Apprentices' Library Company of Philadelphia occupied the building from 1841 to 1897. The structure later served as the home of various businesses until 1957 when the state acquired the structure as part of the larger effort to create Independence Mall as a heritage tourism complex. The building includes artifacts and&nbsp;is operated by Historic Philadelphia.&nbsp;

Construction of this Quaker meeting house began in 1783 with the support of Robert Morris and other colonial leaders. 

The building is located on the southeast corner of 5th and Arch Streets 

Information about the Quaker Meeting House from the National Park Service 

More Info

Constructed between 1783 and 1784 by a group of Philadelphia Quakers who had been forced out by other Quakers for their early support of the American Revolution, this structure served as the meetinghouse of the "Free Quakers." Because Quakers were pacifists, the majority of the city's Quakers opposed this group's support of the colonists who took up arms against England. A few dozen Quakers met at this meetinghouse until 1836. During the 1780s when the group was most active, members included some of the leading men and women who supported the rebellion such as Betsy Ross. With military conflicts between England, France, and the United States coming to an end after the War of 1812, the factors that led to the division between the Free Quakers and others in the city declined. In addition, fewer and fewer members lived in this part of the city by 1830, and this meeting house was no longer utilized by the Quakers after 1836. 

Free Quaker Meeting House

This heritage trail includes four historic Quaker Meeting House and Friends Hospital. Additional sites related to the history of the Quakers in Philadelphia will be added soon. 

The meetinghouse has served as the home to the Hicksite Sect of the Society of Friends since 1856. They have been in the Cherry Street area since they broke from the Arch Street Meeting house back in 1827 over ideological differences. That original Cherry Street meetinghouse no longer stands. However, the “Hicksites” as they were called, finally reconciled with the “orthodox” Quakers of Arch Street in 1955.The house was originally divided into two meeting rooms as Quaker business meeting were segregated by gender until 1926. The south meeting room was then used for social gatherings and serves that function to this day. Both rooms are surrounded by balconies, or “youth galleries” on three sides. The meetinghouse is now part of the larger Friends Center Campus that includes national offices and the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the United Nations Association. The campus was completely renovated in 2009 and designated a LEED Platinum site that is fossil-fuel free and produces zero carbon emissions. The modern addition now houses the offices of many non-profit organizations.The meetinghouse gained its National Historic Landmark status due largely to the role women played in promoting and spreading various social movements beyond its boundaries. To that end, the Friends have added a statue of Quaker martyr, Mary Dyer, who was hung in Boston in 1660 in an attempt to overturn anti-Quaker laws adopted by the colony. Dyer represents a long tradition of female activism within the Society of Friends. Long before other religious denominations, the Quakers promoted female equality and women played key roles in the affairs of the church. They were, from the beginning, allowed to contribute during meetings and worship services on equal footing with men, and were ordained as Quaker ministers. These policies proved to many Quaker and non-Quaker women that they could also contribute to the larger society outside the confines of the meetinghouse.One such woman was Lucretia Mott, who was quite active at the Race Street Meetinghouse and eventually became an ordained minister. She spoke and preached there on numerous occasions and went on to become a leading member of the abolitionist and women’s rights movements. She travelled to and spoke at various other meetinghouses, was a collaborator with William Lloyd Garrison, founded the Female Anti-Slavery Society and spoke at the Seneca Falls Convention on Women’s Rights in 1848. She was active until her death in 1880.

The Race Street Friends Meetinghouse, which was built in 1856, now, ironically, fronts Cherry Street. The site has been in continuous use by the Religious Society of Friends, or Quakers, for over 150 years. The site was converted into the Friends Meeting Center when a modern addition was built in 1975 while still maintaining the integrity of the original meetinghouse. The meetinghouse played a significant role in the social movements of both the 19th and 20th centuries, to include the abolition, women’s rights, temperance, peace and civil rights movements. And, not surprisingly to the Quakers, women, such as Lucretia Mott, Hannah Clothier Hull, Alice Paul and Jane Rushmore, who were associated with Race Street, led the way. Group tours are available by appointment and it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993.

Race Street Friends Meetinghouse

In the annals of Philadelphia's history, few buildings stand as resolute monuments to the passage of time and the enduring spirit of community quite like the Flemish bond brick edifice that graces the city's landscape. Its origins can be traced back to the early nineteenth century, a period marked by the burgeoning growth of a young nation and the steadfast commitment of its citizens to forge a path of religious freedom and social progress.The narrative of this architectural marvel begins with a gesture of generosity from none other than William Penn himself, who, in the twilight years of the 1600s, bestowed upon the Friends community a parcel of land destined to become a sacred burial ground. Little did he know then that his benevolent act would sow the seeds for a place of worship that would echo with the prayers and aspirations of generations to come. In the absence of a dedicated structure, faithful adherents gathered in the intimate confines of private homes to commune with one another and seek solace in their shared beliefs.It wasn't until the dawn of the nineteenth century that the vision of a permanent sanctuary began to take shape. Between the years of 1803 and 1805, with meticulous attention to detail and a reverence for tradition, the cornerstone of the present-day meeting house was laid. Guided by the deft hand of an architect believed to be Owen Biddle, the structure emerged from the earth, its Flemish bond brickwork a testament to the craftsmanship of generations past. By 1811, an additional wing had been seamlessly integrated into the original design, a testament to the community's commitment to growth and inclusivity.Stepping across the threshold of this venerable institution, visitors are transported back in time, enveloped by an aura of reverence and tranquility that permeates every corner of its hallowed halls. The echoes of centuries past reverberate through the air as one traverses the simple yet elegant meeting house, where time seems to stand still amidst the whispers of bygone conversations and the solemnity of shared reflection.The architectural integrity of the building remains remarkably intact, a testament to the enduring craftsmanship of its creators. Original features such as the sturdy walls, lofty ceiling, and polished wooden floors serve as silent witnesses to the passage of time, while the meticulously preserved windows bathe the interior in a soft, ethereal light. Among its many treasures, the meeting house boasts a remarkable collection of crown glass windowpanes, a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of generations past.In 1854, as the nation stood on the precipice of great change, two cupolas were added to the structure, not merely as decorative embellishments, but as vital conduits for ventilation, ensuring the comfort and well-being of those who gathered within its walls. It was a subtle yet significant modification, a nod to the ever-evolving needs of a growing community.But the significance of this meeting house extends far beyond its architectural splendor. It serves as a living testament to the pivotal role played by the Quaker community in the abolitionist movement—a beacon of hope and sanctuary for those who dared to dream of a more just and equitable society. Within its walls, anti-slavery pamphlets were printed and distributed, while fervent discussions and impassioned speeches echoed through its halls.It was here, amidst the hushed whispers of clandestine meetings and the fervent prayers of the faithful, that Henry 'Box' Brown, following his daring escape from slavery, found refuge and solidarity among kindred spirits. It is said that after his harrowing journey to freedom, Brown sought shelter in the nearby Mott residence, where he was welcomed with open arms by local abolitionists who frequented the meeting house. In the years that followed, he may have returned to these sacred grounds, his presence a reminder of the indomitable spirit of those who dared to defy the shackles of oppression.Recognized for its historical significance, the meeting house was duly honored with a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971, a testament to its enduring legacy and cultural importance. In 1988, it was further distinguished as a National Historic Landmark, a fitting tribute to its role in shaping the fabric of American history.Today, centuries removed from its humble beginnings, the meeting house continues to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who pass through its doors. It remains a cherished site for worship services, a gathering place for the faithful, and a testament to the enduring values of community, compassion, and social justice. As the custodians of this venerable institution, we are tasked with preserving its legacy for future generations, ensuring that the echoes of the past continue to resonate within its hallowed halls for centuries to come.

The Quaker meeting house was built between 1803 and 1805. The simplicity and classic beauty of the building reflect the Society of Friends (also known as the Quakers) and their values of thrift, humility, charitable work, and the rejection of materialism. The meeting house is open for tours and is still used as a center for worship.It hosts the Philadelphia Yearly Meetings of Friends, a general conference that also serves as the central organizing body for the Quakers. The meetinghouse was built upon a Quaker burial ground. One of the earliest symbols of the Quaker belief in equality, the Society of Friends allowed non-members, Native Americans, and African Americans to be buried here.The building was also the final stop for many on the Underground Railroad, after a hard journey north they could find friends and support from the Quaker community in Philadelphia. Famous escaped slave, public speaker, and magician, Henry "Box" Brown was unboxed here in front of an audience of abolitionists on March 30th, 1849.

Arch Street Friends Meeting House (Box Brown's Shipping Destination)

Friends
Hospital, also known as the Friends Asylum for the Relief of Persons Deprived
of the Use of Their Reason or Friends Asylum for the Insane, was established in
1813.&nbsp; The purpose of the hospital was to
provide quality and professional health care to mentally ill patients.&nbsp; At this time, most mentally ill patients were
treated in municipal almshouses, private hospitals, or family homes.&nbsp; Although almshouses treated large volumes of
patients, these patients received inadequate treatment in unsanitary, poorly
equipped, and under staffed facilities.&nbsp;
Private hospitals, with typically 30 to 40 beds, treated small numbers
of patients, but were too expensive for the poor.&nbsp; To offset these deficiencies in health care,
many religious groups founded hospitals.&nbsp;
Many of these private sectarian hospitals treated only those deemed as
“hard-working and worthy poor” and refused treatment for paupers who were
better suited for the almshouses.&nbsp; 

The Society of Friends of
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, were the first religious organization in the United
States to establish an institution specifically for the treatment of mentally
ill patients.&nbsp; The Pennsylvania Hospital
opened in 1752, but utilized the common practices of shackling, separation, and
deprivation for patients.&nbsp; In May 1817
the Quakers founded Friends Hospital as a mental treatment facility that
focused on humane and quality treatment of the mentally ill.&nbsp; Friends Hospital became the model for
nineteenth and early twentieth century facilities.&nbsp; It was also one of the first hospitals in the
United States to employ both male and female medical professionals.&nbsp;Friends Hospital focused on mental
health rather than mental treatment.&nbsp;
Through utilizing the Quaker principle of moral treatment, Friends
practitioners aimed to treat all patients with respect, equality, and love to
promote total health.&nbsp; Patients were
treated through interactive groups, with twelve to twenty patients in each
group.&nbsp; These groups completed chores and
attended lectures and tea parties together to enhance socialization.&nbsp; Patients were able to intermingle and only
those who were a threat to themselves or others were restrained.

The hospital was a self-sustaining
campus with a church, a women’s school, a men’s school, art studios, gardens, gymnasium,
and libraries.&nbsp; Friends Hospital was
instrumental in changes in mental health treatment and institutions.&nbsp; With its promotion of acceptance of
psychiatric illnesses, Friends Hospital continues today as an influential
institution for mental health and treatment.&nbsp;

Friends Hospital, founded as the Friends Asylum for the Relief of Persons Deprived of the Use of Their Reason, was the first private mental hospital in the United States that focused on humane mental health treatment. 

Friends Hospital

In 1682 members
of the Society of Friends, or Quakers, arrived in Pennsylvania from Wales, becoming
the first Celtic-speaking Welsh in the Western Hemisphere.&nbsp; Led by Edward Jones, they fled religious
persecution in their homeland for the promise of religious freedom offered by
William Penn.&nbsp; Quakers in the United
Kingdom were considered traitors due to their refusal to swear oaths,
especially oaths denouncing the Pope.&nbsp;
They were also persecuted for their blasphemous religious practices,
which included no sacred art or architecture and unprogrammed worship services
with neither clergy, liturgy, nor sacraments.&nbsp;
As a result, many were imprisoned, suffered corporal punishment and had
their lands confiscated.

These self-named
“Marioneth Adventurers” quickly established a monthly meeting just outside
Philadelphia and began work on their meeting house in 1695.&nbsp; This first, or south, section was completed sometime
around 1703 with the north section completed by 1714.&nbsp; Comprised of local Wissahickon schist, or
stone, the Marion Meeting House was completed prior to the development of an American
Quaker architectural template.&nbsp; It is thought
this occurred because these Welsh Quakers arrived in America prior to the passage
of the 1689 Act of Toleration back in England which allowed Quakers to practice
freely and openly.&nbsp; Therefore, the Marion
Meeting House is quite unique among American Quaker houses of worship.

Soon after,
all meeting houses were designed and built in order to accommodate the practice
of gender segregated business meetings, which caused divided structures with separate
entrances.&nbsp; Marion Friends Meeting House looks
more similar to a private residence than a house of worship.&nbsp; Its T-shaped, or tau design is also a unique
feature as are its bent roof rafters which harken back to a Medieval Welsh
design known as a cruck.&nbsp; The interior is
bereft of any ornamentation or color, as is common in Quaker meeting houses,
with plain wooden benches.&nbsp; In 1801 and
1804, former Governor and patriot leader, John Dickinson, donated land to the
meeting.&nbsp; The exterior was plastered
around 1829 and a chimney was inserted the same year.&nbsp; The second floor contains a single room that
was used to educate children, to include local Native Americans. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also on the four-acre
property are horse or carriage sheds, an 1804 caretaker’s house, and a burial
ground.&nbsp; It is estimated that around
2,000 former Friends are interred there in mostly unmarked graves as was Quaker
custom.&nbsp; It is considered by some to be the most photographed meeting house in the country and there is some evidence William Penn&nbsp;may have preached there.&nbsp;The Marion Meeting House has remained
in continuous use since its construction and still offers unscripted services
every Sunday at 11:00 for both the religiously devout and religiously
curious.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Merion Monthly Meeting began in 1682 when the first Quaker Welsh immigrants arrived in the colonies.  Built in two sections, construction on their unique meeting house began in 1695 and was completed sometime around 1714, making it the oldest place of worship in Pennsylvania.  It is also one of the oldest meeting houses within the United States.  Constructed of local stone, the meeting house was built before the Society of Friends had established architectural guidelines, which explains its distinctive design.  It is still an active meeting house, holding unscripted worship services every Sunday.  The Merion Friends Meeting House was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1999.

Historic Quaker Meeting Houses of Philadelphia

Free Quaker Meeting House

Introduction

Images

Backstory and Context

Sources

Additional Information