Fodor's Expert Review St. Peter's Episcopal Church

Society Hill Church
St. Peter's has been in continuous use since its first service on September 4, 1761. The brick Palladian-style building was designed by Scottish architect Robert Smith, also responsible for Carpenters' Hall and the steeple on Christ Church. William Strickland's simple steeple, a Philadelphia landmark, was added in 1842. Notable features include the grand Palladian window on the chancel wall, high-back box pews that were raised off the floor to eliminate drafts, and the unusual arrangement of altar and pulpit at either end of the main aisle. The design has been called "restrained," but what is palpable on a visit is the silence and grace of the stark white interior. In the churchyard lie Commodore John Hazelwood, a Revolutionary War hero; painter Charles Willson Peale; and seven Native American chiefs who died of smallpox on a visit to Philadelphia in 1793. A guide may be on hand Saturday from 11 to 1 and on Sunday from 1 to 3.
Church

Quick Facts

313 Pine St.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania  19106, USA

215-925–5968

www.stpetersphila.org

Sight Details:
Rate Includes: Free; donations accepted, Audio tour of the church accessible by calling 215–554–6161, Daily 8–4, the churchyard is often open 8 am–7 pm in the summer months; services Sun. 9 and 11

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