Wayne History : Churches : Old St. David's

Old St. David's Church

Founded 1714
Wayne, Valley Forge Rd.
Still Active

Old St. David’s Church is the oldest extant church in Radnor Township. It is also one of the oldest buildings in the township, having been built in 1714. The small, simple, stone church has been called one of the most famous churches in Pennsylvania. It is one of the most documented as well. In 1876 Henry Wadsworth Longfellow penned a poem entitled “Old St. David’s.” In the early 20th Century, Henry Pleasants wrote an entire book on Old St. David’s, which included information on each pastor, church activities, sermons, etc. It is also one of the most photographed buildings in Radnor, with many different postcards produced. In 1888, the members of the church built a Rectory on Valley Forge Rd., which was demolished in the 1950’s for a new parish house.

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A vintage photograph of the church and graveyard.

GP Collection

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