Perhaps the walls of Laurel Hill Mansion could whisper tales of revolution and resilience. This Georgian house overlooks the Schuylkill River in Fairmount Park. It stands as a testament to Philadelphia’s rich history. Welcome to Laurel Hill Mansion.
Built around 1767, Laurel Hill Mansion began as a summer home. Rebecca Rawle, a wealthy widow, constructed it. She later remarried Samuel Shoemaker. He was a former Mayor of Philadelphia and a Loyalist.
Imagine Rebecca overseeing the construction. As the daughter of master builder Edward Warner, she would have been very knowledgeable. The central two-story Georgian structure reflects a popular architectural style of the time.
Samuel Shoemaker’s loyalty to the British crown had consequences. During the British occupation of Philadelphia in 1777, he served as Magistrate of Police. After the British left in 1778, the Pennsylvania Assembly declared him a traitor. Laurel Hill was confiscated.
Rebecca faced hardship. She spent years trying to reclaim her home. She was eventually able to buy it back in 1784. She even used profits from her garden to do so. It is said she grew strawberries and cabbages.
Later, Laurel Hill Mansion would be home to Dr. Philip Syng Physick. He was a physician known as the Father of American Surgery. Physick’s family enjoyed summers here. It was either Physick or his daughter Sally Randolph who added the octagonal music room.
The mansion changed hands several times. In 1869, the City of Philadelphia purchased it. It became part of Fairmount Park. For a time, it served as headquarters for the Fairmount Park Guards.
In 1900, the Colonial Dames of America leased Laurel Hill Mansion. They restored it and opened it to the public. It became the first house museum in Fairmount Park.
Women for Greater Philadelphia maintain Laurel Hill Mansion today. This volunteer organization was founded in 1973. Originally named Women for the Bicentennial, they cooperated with the city for the 1976 celebration. The organization provides tours, concerts, and educational programs here at Laurel Hill.
Inside, you can find portraits of former occupants. The furnishings reflect the popular styles of the late 18th century. A Philadelphia Chippendale mahogany highboy stands out. The Rawle family presented it to Laurel Hill in 1993. It was originally given to Sarah Burge upon her marriage to William Rawle in 1783. There are also musical instruments. An English pianoforte from 1808 and an early 19th-century harp are on display.
From the back porch, the view of the Schuylkill River is unforgettable. Laurel Hill Mansion stands as a reminder of Philadelphia’s past. Its story includes revolution, loyalty, and resilience.