The Monastery

The Monastery is a stone building along Wissahickon Creek at Kitchens Lane, featuring mid-18th century architectural elements characteristic of Pennsylvania construction from that era. The structure sits within Wissahickon Valley Park and displays the building techniques of its time.

Joseph Gorgas, a member of the Seventh Day Baptists, built this structure in 1747 and sold it to Edward Milner in 1761. The change in ownership reflects how the property's use evolved during this early period.

The structure is linked to spiritual gatherings and meditation practices, with nearby sites along Wissahickon Creek marking where religious ceremonies took place.

Visitors can reach The Monastery through Wissahickon Valley Park's trail system, which connects multiple historical sites across the landscape. The park offers different routes to explore the location and walk through its surroundings.

Despite its name and many stories about monastic life, there is no concrete evidence that this building ever functioned as an actual monastery. The name may have come from its spiritual use by early Baptist groups.

Location: Pennsylvania

GPS coordinates: 40.03611,-75.20361

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:03