This week in Christian history: William Penn born, Pentecostal school founded, France attacks Protestants

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, October 13, 2019

William Penn born – Oct. 14, 1644

William Penn (1644-1718), notable Quaker and founder of Pennsylvania. | Public Domain

This week marks the anniversary of when William Penn, a notable Quaker leader who founded the colony of Pennsylvania, was born in London, England.

The son of Admiral Sir William Penn, William became a Quaker at a young age and was persecuted for his beliefs, being jailed four times for preaching his views.

Nevertheless, Penn garnered considerable political power under the rule of King Charles II and in 1681 was able to purchase a large territory in America that eventually became Pennsylvania.

“As sole proprietor, Penn established the Province of Pennsylvania (meaning ‘Penn’s Woods’ and named for his father) as a ‘holy experiment’—intended for Quakers but open to everyone,” explained the Library of Congress.

“Penn is remembered both as an inspiration to generations of Quakers, and as a forward-thinking colonial founder who helped lay the groundwork for some of the best elements of America’s emerging cultural and political character.”