Samuel Yellin Gate

No. 11 On The Map

Samuel Yellin Gate


Wrought iron artist Samuel Yellin created the gates that lead from the Bishop’s Garden to the Pilgrim Steps. The gates are placed in an opening in the garden’s stone wall and are capped with a replica of a 12th century cross. Along the top is the inscription: “They shall enter into peace that enter in at these gates.”

Samuel Yellin worked on much of the ironwork at the Cathedral from 1926 – 1940. He was born in Poland and established a studio in Philadelphia in 1909. He set high standards in design and craftsmanship that continue today. His work can be found in many of the finest buildings in America. In addition to the gates, Yellin created the wrought iron hardware on the doors Bishop’s Garden Norman Arch entrance and the weathervane atop Shadow House.

Inside the Bishop’s Garden, directly adjacent to the Yellin Gate, is a plaque is made of Buckingham, Virginia, green slate. It was designed by John E. Benson of Newport, Rhode Island. The plaque was installed in 1968 following a gift made in in honor of Frank Gardiner Wisner – who was Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Mrs. Wisner was Chair of the All Hallows Guild Garden Committee.

The Yellin Gate was dedicated on May 16, 1930, as a gift of Mr. and Mrs. Roland Leslie Taylor of Philadelphia. Just inside the Yellin Gate a pomegranate tree grows. Outside of the gate are large boxwood and yews – which form the backdrop to the Pilgrim Steps.

Pass through the Samuel Yellin Gate and walk down a few steps to reach the landing at the center of the Pilgrim Steps.


Help Us Keep The Gardens Growing

Partner with us to ensure that the 57 acres of gardens and grounds surrounding Washington National Cathedral continue to be a haven of peace and refreshment in the midst of the Nation’s Capital.

WHO WE ARE

All Hallows Guild was founded in 1916 to provide for the care and beautification of the grounds of Washington National Cathedral. The Guild works closely with the horticultural staff to preserve this historic landscape and raises funds for renovation and renewal of the gardens.

CONTACT US

  • (202) 537-2937
  • ahg@allhallowsguild.org
  • 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW
    Washington, DC 20016

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