St. James Kingsessing facts for kids
St. James Kingsessing, often called "Old Swedes," is a very old church located at 68th Street and Woodland Avenue in the Kingsessing neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is one of the churches built by the first settlers and their families from the Delaware Valley area. This area was once a colony called New Sweden, which was started by the Swedish South Company. New Sweden existed from 1638 to 1655, when it was taken over by the Dutch. St. James Church was built in 1762 and is like a sister church to another old Swedish church called Gloria Dei, which is in the Southwark neighborhood of Philadelphia.
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Discover St. James Kingsessing Church
St. James Kingsessing is more than just a building; it's a piece of American history. This church has stood for centuries, watching the city of Philadelphia grow and change around it. It's a special place that connects us to the very early days of European settlement in Pennsylvania.
A Church from New Sweden's Past
Did you know that before Pennsylvania was founded, there was a Swedish colony here? It was called New Sweden. People from Sweden came to live here and started new communities. As these communities grew, they built churches. St. James Kingsessing is one of these important churches. It helps us remember the Swedish people who first settled in this part of America. The church was built in 1762, which means it's over 260 years old!
What Makes This Church Special?
St. James Kingsessing is known for its long history and its connection to the early Swedish settlers. It's often called "Old Swedes" because of this link. The church building itself shows us what architecture was like long ago. It's a simple, strong building that has stood the test of time. It also has a special relationship with Gloria Dei Church, another "Old Swedes" church in Philadelphia. They share a similar past and heritage.
Where is St. James Kingsessing?
You can find St. James Kingsessing in the Kingsessing neighborhood of Philadelphia. It's located at 68th Street and Woodland Avenue. This area has a rich history, and the church is a key part of its story. It continues to be a landmark in the community, reminding everyone of the area's deep roots.
