Christ Church is a Must-See Philadelphia Historic Landmark

Christ Church is an historic Episcopalian church located in the historic section of Philadelphia, close to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Franklin Court. The second church on that sight built by the early Philadelphia congregation, the current church was erected between 1727 and 1744 and is considered to be one of the finest remaining examples of 18th century ecclesiastic structures. Constructed in the Georgian style, it is an excellent example of colonial craftsmanship.

The church was the first Protestant Episcopal Church in the country, which makes it the birthplace of the Episcopal Church in America. The early rectors of the Christ Church congregation also played important roles in the in the history of the U.S. in general. Rector Jacob Duche led the opening prayers at the First Continental Congress in 1774 and the Reverend William White was chaplain to both the Continental Congress and the United States Senate during the Revolutionary War. White was also responsible for much of the first American Book of Common Prayer, a manuscript that would remain in use for many decades.

Christ Church is a National Historic Landmark. Inside, the approximately 250,000 visitors per year can view an elegant interior with fluted columns and handsome boxed pews. The baptismal font inside the church is the one in which William Penn was baptized in England. It came to the church from All Hallows-by-the-Tower Anglican Church in London.

The early congregation at Christ Church was prestigious, including 15 individuals who signed the Declaration of Independence. Guests today can visit their designated pews, including Pew 56 for George Washington and Pew 70 for Benjamin Franklin. Betsy Ross also worshipped here, though she was assigned a lesser pew with an obstructed view of the pulpit. The Second Continental Congress also worshipped here as a group in 1775-76. Franklin was also integral in securing financing for the church's landmark steeple (196 feet) and bells, which were added to the structure in 1754.

Guides are available to give escorted tours of the church throughout the day. Tours are free of charge but a donation is requested, which assists with the upkeep of the historic structure. Because the church is still an operating Episcopalian congregation, it closes on occasion to accommodate Sunday services, weddings, and funerals. Pre-registration is suggested for group tours.

Christ Church Burial Ground is also an interesting tourist attraction. It is the final resting place for many notable early Philadelphians, including Benjamin Franklin and four other signers of the Declaration of Independence - Francis Hopkinson, Joseph Hewes, George Ross, and Dr. Benjamin Rush. Guided tours of the burial ground are available for a small fee or visitors may obtain a map and tour on their own. However, an admission fee is still required. Weekday hours are quite limited. Reservations for groups should be made in advance.

Because this is a place of worship, visitors are asked to please abide by church rules when visiting. Photographs are permitted unless otherwise noted. Guests are asked to refrain from loud talking and other distracting behaviors.