Arch Street Friends Meeting House, Philadelphia

Located at the intersection of Arch Street and 4th Street in the historic Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia, the Arch Street Meeting House stands as a significant emblem of the Religious Society of Friends, commonly known as the Quakers. This Meeting House, renowned for its embodiment of the Quaker principles of simplicity and equality, has remained largely unchanged since its inception.

The history of the Meeting House dates back to 1701 when William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania and a Quaker himself, deeded land specifically for a burial ground to the Society of Friends. The construction of the meetinghouse began in the early 19th century, with its east wing and center being built between 1803 and 1805. This initial construction was the work of Owen Biddle Jr., a Quaker master-builder who is also remembered for his influential builder's handbook, "The Young Carpenter's Assistant," published in 1805.

Today, the Meeting House remains a vibrant center for worship and various activities conducted by the Monthly Meeting of Friends of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting. It has been a gathering place for many notable members of the Religious Society of Friends, including the famous abolitionists and women's rights advocates Sarah and Angelina Grimke, as well as Edward Hicks, a renowned painter and cousin of Elias Hicks.

The Arch Street Meeting House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971 and elevated to the status of a National Historic Landmark in 2011, primarily as the only surviving documented work of Owen Biddle.