Free Quaker Meetinghouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Free Quaker Meetinghouse
|
|
(2013)
|
|
 Location in Philadelphia
Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | SW corner of 5th and Arch Streets Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Built | 1783 |
| NRHP reference No. | 71000063 |
| Added to NRHP | September 22, 1971 |
The Free Quaker Meetinghouse is a very old and important building in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It stands at the corner of 5th and Arch Streets, right inside Independence National Historical Park. This building is special because it's the oldest Quaker meeting house still standing in the original part of Philadelphia. It's also the only historic building left on Independence Mall, which is a big open area between Chestnut Street and Race Street.
The meetinghouse is a simple brick building with a sloped roof. It has two and a half stories. It was first built in 1783, and the second floor was added five years later in 1788. In 1961, the building was carefully moved a short distance to its current spot. This move made space for widening Fifth Street as part of creating Independence Mall State Park.
Contents
What is the Free Quaker Meetinghouse?
This historic building was originally a "meeting house" for a group called the Free Quakers. A meeting house is like a church or a community center where Quakers gather for worship and discussions. The Free Quakers were a group of Quakers who supported the American Revolution. This was different from many other Quakers who believed in being neutral during conflicts.
A Look at the Building's Design
The Free Quaker Meetinghouse has a simple, classic design known as Georgian style. This style was popular in the 1700s. It features a plain brick exterior and a gable roof, which means the roof slopes down on two sides. The building's design shows the Quaker belief in simplicity and avoiding fancy decorations.
Its Journey Through Time
Quaker meetings were held in this building for many years, until 1836. After that, the building was used by different groups. From 1836 to 1897, it was home to the Apprentices' Library Company of Philadelphia. This library helped young people who were learning trades by providing them with books.
Later, in the 20th century, the building was used as a warehouse. It stored plumbing supplies for a while. Eventually, it was restored as part of the Independence Mall Improvement Project. This project helped bring the building back to its original look and purpose.
Recognized as a Historic Place
The Free Quaker Meetinghouse was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. This means it's recognized as an important historical site in the United States. Today, the building is open to visitors during certain times of the year as part of Independence National Historical Park. It helps people learn about the history of Philadelphia and the role of the Free Quakers.
