Art + History + Preservation
HISTORY STARTED HERE IN 1796 AND CONTINUES TO BE MADE EVERY DAY
About St. Augustine Heritage foundation
It started with a handshake from George Washington
Just as President George Washington contributed to the construction of the original church, we, as stewards of history, remain committed to ensuring St. Augustine Church stands strong to meet the future.
JOIN US to ensure St. Augustine remains a historic icon that strengthens the diverse cultural heritage we share as Americans.
First in History
Listed on both the National and Philadelphia Registers of Historic Places, St. Augustine is the birthplace of the Augustinian Order in America; an Academy that became Villanova University; the Choral Society of Philadelphia (now the legendary Philadelphia Orchestra); and, following the 1844 riots that set fire to and destroyed the original 1801 church, the Philadelphia Police Department. The Sister of the Liberty Bell—cast in the same English foundry to ring at Independence Hall when the original Liberty Bell cracked—is on display in the church.
Mission
Our mission is to preserve, restore, and improve the historic buildings, grounds, and artworks of St. Augustine Parish and to support its historical, civic, educational, and cultural programs.
Foundation Board
< 1897 portraits of the life of St. Augustine
The Need
The 1847 building and its priceless artworks are nationally recognized, but the upkeep and restoration needs are great to preserve them for future generations.
