you hungry for a taste of more well to do colonial Philadelphia, head for
the Powel House. Mayor Samuel Powel and his wife, Elizabeth, hosted every
founding father and foreign dignitary around. He spent most of his 205
galivanting around Europe, collecting wares for his 1765 mansion IT'S hard
to believe that this most Georgian of houses was slated for demolition in
1930, because it had become a decript slum dwelling. Period rooms were
removed to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art
in New York. But the Philadelphia Society for the Preservation of landmarks
saved it and has gradually refurnished the entire mansion as it was. The
yellow satin Reception Room, off the entrance hall, has some gorgeus details
such as a wide grain mahogany secretary. Upstairs the magnificent ballroom
features red damask drapes whose design is copied from a bolt of cloth found
uptoched in a colonial attic. There is also a 1790 Irish crystal chandelier
and a letter from Benjamin Franklin's daughter refferring to the lively
dances held here. An 18th century garden lies below.
Hours: Thurs - Sat noon to 5pm,
Sun 1 to 5pm.
Be sure to arrive at least 30 min before closing. |
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