Our Quaker Foundations

Just outside the main entrance to Longwood Gardens near Route 1 is the historic 1855 Longwood Meeting House, which now houses a Tourist Information Center (see Map). The building was purchased in 1940 by Pierre du Pont and has belonged to Longwood ever since, but it was constructed 85 years earlier as a Quaker Meeting House. Its early years were turbulent and closely intertwined with the Religious Society of Friends and with the celebrated Underground Railroad.

The Religious Society of Friends

George Fox established the Religious Society of Friends in mid 17th-century England.  Through his own Christian soul searching, Fox made a radical discovery: God lives in and talks directly to everyone.  It was apparent to Fox that something of the Divine is implanted in each human being.  From this originated the Quaker phrase, "There is that of God in every person."  This Spirit is also referred to as the "Light" or the "Inner Light."

The term "Quaker" was first used by an English magistrate as one of contempt.  During a sentencing, George Fox bade the court to "tremble at the word of the Lord."  The magistrate labeled Fox a "Quaker."  The official name for the Quaker movement is the Religious Society of Friends.

Large numbers of people were drawn to the Quaker movement which emphasized the universality of the presence of the "Spirit Within."  Despite intense persecution and suffering, Fox and his followers continued to embrace Quakerism.  Thousands began to worship by gathering in silent waiting and Holy Expectancy.  The concept of the Lord speaking directly to and through individuals was a radical departure in 17th-century England.  However, it rapidly gained acceptance by thousands who were seeking a personally satisfying religion.

Among those to embrace Quakerism was William Penn.  With his high social position and an excellent education, Penn shocked his upper-class associates by his conversion to the beliefs of the Society of Friends.  Penn used his inherited wealth and rank to benefit and protect his fellow believers in this persecuted sect.