Christ Church, at 20 N American St in Philadelphia’s Old City, is an Episcopal church with close ties to the Revolutionary era and the early American church. Its Georgian brick building dates to the 18th century, and its congregants included George Washington, Benjamin Franklin and 15 signers of the Declaration of Independence. Look inside at the historic pews, organ and bells, then explore the burial ground around the church. A separate burial ground at Fifth and Arch streets includes Benjamin Franklin’s grave.
A parish with colonial roots
Christ Church’s parish was established in 1695 under William Penn’s charter. The first church on the site was wooden. As the congregation grew, work began on a brick building in 1727; the church was completed in 1744. Its history traces the development of the American Episcopal Church, whose early life was closely connected to this Philadelphia parish.
During the Revolutionary era, the congregation included George Washington, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross and other prominent Philadelphians. Fifteen signers of the Declaration of Independence worshipped here. The church was also attended by members of the Continental Congress and by presidents during the early years of the republic. These connections make the building a place to consider how religious life and the formation of the new nation overlapped.
The Georgian building and its steeple
The church is a notable example of Georgian architecture. Its symmetrical facade and arched windows reflect a classical style associated with English churches of the period. The design drew on the work of English architect Sir Christopher Wren, whose churches were rebuilt in London after the Great Fire. The building’s restrained exterior contrasts with accounts of its original standing as one of the most sumptuous churches in the colonies.
A tower and steeple were added in the 1750s. At 196 feet, the steeple made Christ Church the tallest building in the future United States, a position it held until 1810. The design is attributed to Robert Smith, an early American architect, and the project was financed through a lottery established by Benjamin Franklin. Inside, take time to notice the historic pews, the organ and the bells. The church also holds William Penn’s baptismal font, sent from London in 1697.
The church and its burial grounds
Burials around the church and at the separate Christ Church Burial Ground preserve another part of its history. The nearby burial ground is at Fifth and Arch streets, several blocks from the church. Benjamin Franklin and his wife, Deborah, are buried there, along with composer and poet Francis Hopkinson and physician Benjamin Rush. Franklin is not buried in the small burial area beside the church, so plan for the separate site if you want to visit his grave.
The church’s past also includes difficult history. Christ Church does not conceal connections between former parishioners and the slave trade, including the event known as the Weeping Time. This history belongs alongside the church’s role in the nation’s founding when considering the people and institutions connected to it.
Planning a visit
You can look around the church on a self-guided visit or join a guided tour. A tour can add context about the building, the people who worshipped here and the burials associated with the church. The time needed can depend on whether you take a tour and visit the nearby burial ground as well.
The church is at 20 N American St in Old City. Make room in your plan for the separate burial ground at Fifth and Arch streets if Franklin’s grave is on your list. Tickets in advance are recommended. The garden is accessible without a ticket. A small selection of souvenirs is available inside.
FAQ
Where is Christ Church in Philadelphia?
It is at 20 N American St in Old City. The separate Christ Church Burial Ground is at Fifth and Arch streets.
Did Benjamin Franklin worship at Christ Church?
Yes. Franklin was among the church’s Revolutionary-era worshippers. His grave is at the separate burial ground at Fifth and Arch streets, not beside the church.
Can you take a guided tour of Christ Church?
Yes. Guided tours are available and provide more detail about the church’s history and burials.
Do you need a ticket to visit the garden?
The garden can be visited without a ticket. Tickets in advance are recommended for a visit to the church.
