Free Quaker Meeting House

Overview

The Free Quaker Meeting House is a historic 18th-century meeting house located at the corner of 5th and Arch Streets in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Built in 1783, the building tells the remarkable story of the Free Quakers, a group of Quakers who supported the American Revolution despite breaking with the traditional pacifist position of the Society of Friends.

Located within Independence National Historical Park, the meeting house provides visitors with a unique perspective on the American Revolution—one that explores the intersection of religion, politics, personal beliefs, and the struggle for independence.

Historical Significance

During the American Revolution, Pennsylvania’s Quaker community faced a difficult division. Traditional Quakers generally opposed war, while a group known as the Free Quakers supported the American cause.

After being disowned by the mainstream Quaker community, the Free Quakers established their own place of worship in 1783. Between 30 and 50 men and women attended the meeting, including the famous Philadelphia figure Betsy Ross.

The building therefore represents an important but lesser-known aspect of the American Revolution: the personal and religious conflicts created by the struggle for independence.

Why Visit

The Free Quaker Meeting House is a must-visit for travelers interested in American history, the Revolutionary War, Philadelphia’s religious history, and historic architecture.

Unlike many major Philadelphia attractions that focus on political leaders and famous revolutionary events, this site provides a more personal look at how the Revolution affected religious communities and ordinary citizens.

Visitors can explore the historic meeting house, view exhibits, and learn about the Free Quakers and their unusual role in the creation of the United States.

What to See

Visitors can explore the historic meeting space, including its traditional pews and interpretive exhibits. The building’s Georgian-style architecture also provides an authentic connection to Philadelphia during the late 18th century.

The meeting house is especially interesting when combined with other nearby Revolutionary-era attractions in Philadelphia’s Historic District.

Visitor Information

Address: 5th and Arch Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Admission: Free

Current Status: Closed for the season

Hours: Seasonal; visitors should check current National Park Service information before visiting.

Tickets: No tickets are required when the site is open.

Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance available on the west side of the building.

Phone: 215-965-2305

Final Thoughts

The Free Quaker Meeting House is one of Philadelphia’s lesser-known historical treasures. Its small size contrasts with the importance of the story it tells—a story about people who were willing to challenge their own religious community because they believed in the cause of American independence.

For anyone exploring Philadelphia’s Revolutionary history, this historic meeting house offers a fascinating opportunity to see the American Revolution from a different perspective.

Its combination of historic architecture, Quaker history, Revolutionary War connections, and personal stories makes it a valuable addition to any Philadelphia historical itinerary.