Fodor's Expert Review Free Quaker Meeting House

Old City and Historic Downtown Free

This was the house of worship for the Free "Fighting" Quakers, a group that broke away from the Society of Friends to support the cause against the British during the Revolutionary War. The building was designed in 1783 by Samuel Wetherill, one of the original leaders of the group, after they were disowned by their pacifist flock. Among the 100 members were Betsy Ross and Timothy Matlack, colonel in Washington's Army and assistant secretary of the Continental Congress. After the Free Quaker group dissolved, the building was used as a school, library, and warehouse. The meetinghouse, built in the Quaker plain style with a brick front and gable roof, has been carefully restored.

No tickets are required, but call the Independence National Historical Park to check on availability.

Free Historic Sight

Quick Facts

500 Arch St.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania  19106, USA

215-965–2305

www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/places-freequaker.htm

Sight Details:
Rate Includes: Free, Mar.–Nov., weekends 11–4, Call for schedule

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