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Christ Church, located in Philadelphia's historic Old City District, is often called “The Nation’s Church.” Numerous leaders and famous characters of the American Revolution—including George and Martha Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross, John Adams and Robert Morris—worshipped here.  Founded in 1695, the present brick structure was begun in 1727, and is one of the finest surviving Georgian buildings in North America.  Christ Church served as the first parish of the Church of England in colonial Pennsylvania, and is the birthplace of the American Episcopal Church.  Absalom Jones, the first African-American priest of the Episcopal Church, was ordained here.  The Christ Church Burial Ground is the final resting place of over 4,000 men and women; common people and some of America’s most prominent leaders, including Benjamin Franklin and four other signers of the Declaration of Independence, Revolutionary War heroes, and early medical pioneers.

In addition to its venerable history, important structures and grounds, and diverse collection of objects and manuscripts, Christ Church remains a vibrant community of faith after more than three centuries. More than 250,000 visitors from around the nation and the world visit Christ Church each year. Visit www.christchurchphila.org for more information on talks and programs about Christ Church’s rich history, collections and parishioners.