1776 Schwenkfelders: Day of Remembrance

by Allen Viehmeyer

The Schwenkfelders, followers of Caspar Schwenckfeld (1489/90–1561), originated in Silesia, Germany. Facing religious persecution in Harpersdorf during the 1720s, several members migrated to Pennsylvania in the 1730s. Their first annual Day of Thanksgiving and Memorial was observed on September 24, 1734, two days following their arrival in Philadelphia after a three-month voyage that took a little longer than usual. Under the leadership of George Weiss, this occasion emphasized gratitude, solemn reflection, earnest prayer, steadfast commitment, renewed faith, and remembrance of those who perished during the journey, rather than festivity. The full-day program included both morning and afternoon sermons, prayers and hymns. Between services, attendees partook in bread, butter, apple butter, and water. This tradition has been maintained continuously for nearly 290 years and is now held annually on the Sunday nearest September 24.