Here lies the Haverford Friends Burial Ground a testament to faith and community. This sacred ground whispers tales of Welsh settlers and Quaker ideals. Let’s explore its history together.
In 1684 a burial ground became essential for the growing community. William Howell is believed to have owned the land. William Sharpus was the first to be interred here on November 18 1684. This marked the beginning of a final resting place deeply connected to the Old Haverford Meeting.
The Old Haverford Friends Meeting itself has deep roots. The first Welsh settlers arrived in Haverford Township in 1682 establishing the meeting in 1683. Until a Meeting House was constructed gatherings occurred in members’ homes. Thomas Duckett’s home hosted the first Monthly Meeting on April 10 1684. John Bevan also opened his home for meetings. His land was near where the Old Haverford Meeting now stands.
In 1688 money was raised to construct a stone Meeting House. This was completed in 1700. The southern part with its rougher masonry is considered the original section. The northern part was added around 1800. William Penn himself preached here after its construction. He often attended worship here.
William Howell a Welsh settler who arrived on the ship Lyons in 1682 played a crucial role. William Penn granted Howell 5000 acres. In 1693 Howell deeded the land to John Bevan William Lewis Henry Lewis and Morris Llewellyn the Trustees of Old Haverford Meeting.
The Meeting House had some interesting features. Originally there were no chimneys. Jamb stoves heated the building. Fuel was piled outside and smoke escaped through flues. A partition inside could be raised or lowered. This allowed men and women to conduct their meetings separately. The second floor housed a schoolroom for First-Day School.
According to tradition the window frames were made of lead. During the American Revolution they were seized and melted to make musket balls.
The first marriage recorded at Old Haverford Monthly Meeting occurred on March 20 1690. Lewis David and Florence Jones were united in marriage. Quaker weddings were unique. The bride and groom made promises in front of God and their friends. They pledged their love and faithfulness. No priest officiated because Quakers believed God alone could create such a union.
The Haverford Friends Burial Ground connects us to these stories. It is a place where the community’s past and present intertwine. It embodies the enduring spirit of the Welsh Quakers who settled here. Their legacy continues to shape this region. Take a moment to reflect on their journey. Consider their commitment to faith community and equality as you stand on this hallowed ground.