Before Penn

Award-winning author, illustrator and typographer Hal Taylor leads off the next edition of Great Talks at Gloria Dei.

Tayor will reveal how Gustavus Adolphus, also known as “the father of modern warfare,” helped make “Sweden the most admired and feared world power in the 17th century.” 

He’ll also discuss the difficult voyages of the Kalmar Nyckel and the Fogel Grip to New Sweden and the city of Philadelphia … as well as the constant friction between the Dutch and the Swedes here before the English came in 1664 and took control of all Dutch and former Swedish holdings.

In addition, Taylor will sell and sign copies of his book, which includes over eighty original color and black & white illustrations.

Meet and Mingle Afterward … and Talk to the Speaker

Tickets for the program are $10, which includes a drink ticket for a beverage of your choice (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). 

Part of “Great Talks at Gloria Dei,” this program will take place inside the church sanctuary. 

A popular Meet-and-Mingle reception will follow in nearby Riverside Hall, where the author will answer questions and sign books for sale. 

For a modest donation, you can also sample delicious gourmet desserts paired with wine, coffee or tea at the reception

Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church is located at 916 S. Swanson (Columbus Blvd. and Christian Street) in the Queen Village section of Philadelphia.

This program is hosted by the Historic Gloria Dei Preservation Corporation. One hundred percent of the funds raised from this event will go toward the preservation of Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church and its graveyard.