Old Pine Street Church—originally founded as the Third Presbyterian Church of Philadelphia in 1768—is one of the city’s most significant surviving colonial-era religious buildings. Designed by noted carpenter‑architect Robert Smith, the original structure was a simple Georgian red‑brick church that quickly became a spiritual and civic anchor in the growing city.
During the American Revolution, Old Pine stood at the heart of wartime Philadelphia. Its early pastor, Rev. George Duffield, was an outspoken patriot whose sermons encouraged resistance to British rule. The surrounding streets often filled with Continental soldiers and military supplies, and the churchyard became the burial place for 285 Revolutionary soldiers, two British soldiers, and many local residents.
Through the 19th century, the church expanded with new walls, connecting buildings, and renovations that supported a growing congregation in Society Hill. Today, Old Pine is one of the few 18th‑century churches still standing in Philadelphia and remains the city’s largest Presbyterian church. Its grounds also include the burial site of John Adams, Philadelphia’s first mayor, and a memorial garden created through community support.
Old Pine continues to serve as an active congregation, preserving its historic sanctuary while maintaining a commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
