Thornvillechurch – Old Trinity Church, located in Oxford Township (now part of Philadelphia), Pennsylvania, is a historically rich Episcopal church that has been a part of the local community since 1696. Known for its deep ties to the Church of England and its significant role in early American history. Old Trinity Church remains an important religious and architectural landmark. Let’s delve into the fascinating history of this church. From its early beginnings to its continued significance in the present day.
Old Trinity Church’s roots trace back to 1696 when the first Church of England services were held at this location. The site originally hosted a Quaker meeting house built around 1684, but over time. They transformed it into a center for Anglican worship. The current structure of the church, completed in 1711, is made of red and black bricks that were thought to have been ballast from ships brought from England. The design was simple yet elegant, marking the beginning of the church’s long-standing presence in the area.
People have made several key modifications to the church over the centuries, including installing pews in 1759 and completing the flooring in 1807. In 1833, the church underwent significant changes, with the addition of transepts and a new west-end tower. The church’s corner tower and belfry, which remain today, were added in 1875, designed by the renowned architectural firm Furness & Hewitt. These architectural additions, along with interior alterations, helped shape the church into the iconic structure it is today.
The history of Old Trinity Church is deeply intertwined with its congregation. Which included families who sought religious freedom in the New World. Among the early settlers were John and Rees Price, two teenagers who built the first log meeting house on the site. Their family, originally from the Welsh Merion Meeting, played a significant role in the church’s early development. After they arrived on the ship Lyon from England as part of William Penn’s fleet. Their religious practices shifted from Quakerism to Anglicanism, a rare occurrence in Quaker history. George Keith, a Radical Quaker who later became a Church of England minister, influenced this transition in part.
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Over the years, Old Trinity Church saw a number of pastors and preachers who contributed to the church’s growth and spiritual development. Notable among them was the Rev. Thomas Clayton, the church’s first minister. Who baptized over 500 individuals in the area before his untimely death in 1698. The Rev. John Clubb, who served in 1705, and the Rev. Robert Weyman, who preached in Welsh to local communities, were also important figures in the early church. Though ministers often faced challenges, such as the absence of a bishop to oversee ordinations, the congregation supported them, and they played an instrumental role in maintaining the church’s vitality.
One particularly significant gift to the church came in 1713 when Queen Anne presented a silver communion set inscribed with “Annae Reginae.” This set, still used on special occasions today. Serves as a testament to the church’s enduring connection to its English roots and the royal recognition of its importance.
Old Trinity Church’s legacy extends far beyond its architecture and early pastors. It played an important role in the cultural and political landscape of early America. Among the rectors of the church were individuals who went on to achieve national prominence. The Rev. Aeneas Ross, who served from 1742 to 1758, was the brother of George Ross. A signer of the Declaration of Independence, and father-in-law to Betsy Ross. Another notable rector was the Rev. Dr. William Smith. Who not only served the church but also founded the College of Philadelphia (now the University of Pennsylvania) and served as its first provost.
After the American Revolutionary War, the Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania officially admitted the church in 1786. Cementing its place in the history of the Episcopal Church in America. The church continued to serve the local community through the years, with prominent figures such as Edward Young Buchanan. The brother of President James Buchanan, serving as rector from 1854 to 1882.
Today, Old Trinity Church stands as a cherished landmark that blends architectural beauty with a rich spiritual and historical legacy. From its early roots in religious freedom to its ongoing role in the community. Old Trinity Church remains a beacon of faith and history, representing the enduring influence of early American religious practices.
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