Jacob Duché

Born in Philadelphia in 1737, Jacob Duché was educated at the Academy and College of Philadelphia, where he graduated as valedictorian. He later studied in England and was ordained in the Church of England, then returned home to become a well-known Anglican minister at Christ Church and St. Peter's in Philadelphia.

Duché is best known for the prayer he delivered to open the First Continental Congress in September 1774, a moment that gave him a lasting place in early American history. For a time he served as chaplain to the Continental Congress and was admired as a powerful preacher and religious writer.

His story became far more complicated during the Revolution. After initially supporting the American cause, he urged George Washington to seek peace with Britain, a move that destroyed his standing with many patriots. He spent years in exile in England before returning to Philadelphia near the end of his life, leaving behind a career that reflects both the hopes and the deep divisions of the revolutionary era.