Overlooking the Schuylkill River stands Lemon Hill Mansion. A breathtaking view greets you. This isn’t just any mansion. It’s a piece of Philadelphia history.
Lemon Hill Mansion boasts a fascinating past. Built between 1799 and 1800 it was the creation of merchant Henry Pratt. He purchased the land after Robert Morris a Founding Father faced financial ruin. Pratt’s meticulous design features three oval parlors each with curved fireplace mantles and doors. The mansion’s name comes from the citrus fruits Pratt cultivated on the grounds.
Initially a private estate Lemon Hill opened to the public for a fee. Pratt’s landscaping was inspired by English landscape gardens. He extended an existing greenhouse structure. The city of Philadelphia acquired Lemon Hill in 1844. This purchase was the first step in creating Fairmount Park. Throughout the 19th century Lemon Hill served as a restaurant undergoing exterior modifications including a Victorian porch.
Architectural historians Fiske and Marie Kimball restored Lemon Hill to its 1800s appearance. They lived there from 1926 to 1955. Their work uncovered the truth about the mansion’s builder. For years it was believed that Robert Morris had built it. Kimball’s research however revealed that Pratt was both designer and contractor. This was confirmed by Pratt’s letterbooks discovered in 2005.
Since 1957 Lemon Hill Mansion has operated as a house museum. The Colonial Dames of America and Friends of Lemon Hill initially managed it. In 2007 a restoration project recreated the original views of the mansion. The Fairmount Park Conservancy has overseen Lemon Hill since 2016. Its story continues to unfold a testament to Philadelphia’s rich history. The mansion stands as a stunning reminder of the city’s past. Its unique architecture and captivating history make it a must-see destination.