Posted August 1, 2017

When dedicated at its new location at the former Our Lady of Ransom School on Sept. 21, the Catholic Historical Research Center of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will welcome anyone with an interest in the rich history of the Church in Philadelphia. Read about the new archival center’s advantages over its former location at the seminary, and some of the priceless artifacts, in our story here. (Photos by Sarah Webb)

  • Shawn Weldon preoudly shows off the room for computers and microfilm readers at the Catholic Historical Research Center, Philadelphia.

  • A field Mass kit used in France by Father Joseph Wolfe during World War I is on display at the archives.

  • The travel trunk of George W. Nixon, circa 1686, is displayed at the archives. Nixon is the first recorded Catholic to settle within the present boundaries of Philadelphia.

  • Artwork and other historical artifacts are still being prepared for display at the archives.

  • Shawn Weldon opens a packing box containing an image of Bishop Francis Patrick Kenrick.

  • Archivist Shawn Weldon reviews records at the Catholic Historical Research Center of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

  • Archivist Shawn Weldon reviews the ample space for records in the new shelving and accommodations at the Catholic Historical Research Center of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, located in Northeast Philadelphia.

  • Archivist Shawn Weldon reviews records at the Catholic Historical Research Center of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. (Photo by Sarah Webb)