Old Quaker Meeting House (Queens)

The Old Quaker Meeting House, located in Flushing, Queens, New York City, is one of the oldest houses of worship in the city and a significant example of early American religious architecture. Constructed in 1694, it served as a center for Quaker worship and community life in the area.

The building is a simple, rectangular structure built of wood, reflecting the Quaker commitment to plainness and humility. Its design is largely unaltered from its original construction, making it a valuable historical resource. Inside, the meeting house features simple wooden benches and a central open space for silent worship and vocal ministry, characteristic of Quaker meetings.

The Old Quaker Meeting House played a vital role in the early history of Flushing and the surrounding area. It served as a refuge for religious dissenters and a center for social and political activism. Quakers in Flushing were known for their strong anti-slavery stance and their advocacy for religious freedom and social justice.

Today, the Old Quaker Meeting House is still used for worship by the Flushing Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). It is also open to the public for tours and educational programs, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of Quakerism in America and the important role it played in shaping the region. The building is a designated New York City Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.