The almost total restoration of Gloria Dei 'Old Swedes' Church (originally dedicated on July 2, 1700) was completed in 1999, in time for the 300th anniversary of the church building. Externally, the only surfaces not treated were the brick faces, from repointing of the lowliest brick in the church wall to regilding the heights of the steeple spire. The interior renovation was even more complete; the brick faces were treated, painted surfaces were restored to original colonial colors, the stained glass window was cleaned and repaired and the replicas of the Kalmar Nyckel and the Fogel Gryp were repaired and rebuilt. The result of all this work is breathtaking.
Also
"breathtaking" was the bill. The work was underwritten by the
congregation as well as the William Penn Foundation and various Gloria
Dei Endowment Funds. Several members of the Swedish Colonial Society
also contributed to the restoration and an especially generous donation
was received from Mrs. George C. McFarland.
Those who care about this
historic and important building wish to thank all who contributed or
will in the future contribute to this effort. We also invite any
interested person or group to come and enjoy our beautiful church with
us.
D. Joy Segal, Rector | Columbus Blvd. & Christian Street | Philadelphia, PA 19147 | (215) 389-1513
