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The Bible in Mercer Tile

Salem’s most distinguishing artistic feature is the stunning arrangement of Mercer Tiles adorning the sanctuary altar. The tiles were given to Salem by Henry Chapman Mercer (1856-1930), an eminent archeologist, artifact collector, tile-maker, and the founder of Doylestown’s famed Moravian Pottery and Tile Works, now part of a National Historic Landmark District including the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle.
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In 1929, Mercer personally designed the layout of the tiles for Salem’s altar and supervised their installation. Some of the panels, including the Baptism of Christ in the River Jordan, are the only ones of their kind in the world.
 
The Mercer Tiles may be viewed before or after Sunday services, or during the week by appointment. An informative and interpretive "Tile Talk" with an art historian is available for small groups by appointment. To arrange a viewing, contact the Salem office at 215-348-9860, or by email.  

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