|
 |
|
|
|
Quest for Freedom: Arch Street Friends Meeting House
The oldest and largest Friends Meeting House in the world
|
Arch Street Meeting House
Photo courtesy of Arch Street Meeting House
|
Underground Railroad Connection
The oldest Friends Meeting House still in use in the city and the largest in the world, Arch Street Friends holds a Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of Friends living in the mid-Atlantic region.
Reflecting the pacifist and abolitionist views of many Quakers, in 1779, the friends decided to expel all members who refused to free their slaves. Visitors are welcome to attend worship services, but should note that Quaker meetings gather in silence; there is no human leader and no planned order of service.
Nearby Historic Marker
After Cyrus Bustill purchased his freedom, he later opened a school for African American children. A marker at 210 Arch Street celebrates his work.
Nearby, at 5th and Arch Streets, a marker explains the role of the Philadelphia Female Anti-Slavery Society, a pioneer among grassroots organizations.
|
|
|
|