text: seven walking tours through historic Philadelphia

Bishop White House

bishop white house

The Bishop White House at 309 Walnut St. was the home of William White (1748-1836), rector of Christ Church and St. Peter's, who was also Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church in Pennsylvania. He was Chaplain of the Continental Congress and later filled the same office for the United States Senate. Important men and women of his time came here as guests, including George Washington.

The first and second floors are open to the public and the furnishings are all of the period, fine examples of the time and an indication of the social standing of the Bishop and his family. The dining room and kitchen are exceptionally fine examples of the period. There is even an inside "necessary," an unusual feature at a time when these conveniences were in the back garden.

Just to the west of the Bishop White House is a charming 18th Century Garden



Independence Hall Area