Preserving Traditions

Over the course of our 220-year history, Episcopal has called numerous places home. Our move to Newtown Square is a natural evolution, but we want to be sure that the things that make us who we are-the traditions, the legacy, and the people-join us. Many historic items and artifacts symbolize this mission, and we'll be taking these items with us to Newtown Square.





Excellence on the move

Episcopal's commitment to excellence spans more than 200 years. As the school plans its next chapter, it has identified several essential artifacts that will travel from Merion to Newtown Square. Some of these items are displayed here, including the original keystone from the Juniper and Locust Street building, which housed the school from 1850 to 1921.



The Sweater

This jersey was worn during the 1920s by various athletic teams at Episcopal. Like today's sweater, it prominently displays the 10 signature stripes representing self-control, unselfishness, obedience, thankfulness, courage, cleanliness, kindness, sportsmanship, politeness, and truthfulness. Like so many Episcopal traditions, it reminds us that the most important lessons in life are constant and unchanging.



1785 Flag

It was three years after the American Revolution, and four years before the drafting of the Constitution and George Washington's inauguration. At the time, our nation operated as 13 independent states, united only by the Articles of Confederation and this 13-star flag - the same flag that flew over Philadelphia the year Episcopal Academy was founded.



Needlepoint Kneelers

Occasionally it is impossible to fix a value on an item. Such is the case with the Christ Chapel Kneelers. Designed by Victor L. Pisani and created by members of the Episcopal Mother's Association in 1980, these artifacts are so detailed - so unique - that the school is unable to insure them. In Newtown Square, they will continue to inspire all who visit Episcopal's Chapel.



Wood Sculpture

For the past century, Episcopal Academy students have walked passed this hand-carved wood sculpture of the seal on a daily basis. Originally located above the entrance to the Chapel at the Locust Street building, it currently rests just inside the front door to the Main Building. In Newtown Square, it will again be prominently displayed, reminding all that pass of Episcopal's motto "esse quam videri," to be, rather than seem to be.



Doolittle Red Maple

Fredrick J. Doolittle, beloved Latin teacher and Episcopal icon, made it a personal goal to provide the Merion Campus with a single specimen of every North American arbor species suited to the local climate. This Red Maple, located on the Merion Campus circle, is part of his legacy. Episcopal's maintenance and grounds staff have harvested saplings from Dr. Doolittle's arboretum for transplanting on the new campus.



Athletic Shields

Episcopal's athletic shields are symbolic of a long and rich tradition that honors the athletes that lettered in varsity sports. Dating back to 1907, each shield bears the names of each student in that class with a corresponding number of stars identifying the number of sports in which they lettered. The entire collection will be displayed with care and reverence in the Newtown Square athletic facilities.



Christ Chapel Stained Glass

All of the small stained glass windows from Christ Chapel in Merion will travel to Newtown Square. Originally donated by individual patrons during the construction of the Chapel in 1959, each window depicts important Episcopalian and Christian symbols or themes, including this piece featuring the seal of the Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania.



Memorial Window and War Memorial

Built in 1928 by D'Ascenzo Studios in Philadelphia. On the window is written the words "Love Never Fails" and is dedicated to the memory of James David Harris (1916 - 1928).



Doolittle Sculpture

Somewhat controversial when first unveiled, the Doolittle Sculpture has become a landmark on the Episcopal campus and will find a new home in Newtown Square. Created and donated by noted sculptor Joseph J. Greenburg, Class of 1934, the sculpture was first displayed on the Episcopal campus in December 1986.

The Episcopal Academy * Merion: 376 N Latches Lane, Merion, PA, 19066 610-667-9612 * Devon: 905 S. Waterloo Road, Devon, PA, 19333 610-293-0830