Did you know a simple cottage holds centuries of Philadelphia history? This is Boelson Cottage. It stands as the oldest structure in Fairmount Park. Let’s step back in time and uncover the story of this charming place.
Boelson Cottage is a relic from the Dutch and Swedish colonial era. It was built between 1678 and 1684. Imagine life back then. This 1+1⁄2-story cottage sheltered early settlers. It shows their simple lives.
The cottage sits on land granted to John Boelson in 1677. The Swedish colonial court in Upland gave him 100 acres. Boelson built his home here near the Schuylkill River. Over time, the cottage acquired several nicknames. People called it Pig’s Eye, Tom Moore’s, Aunt Cornelia’s, and Belmont Cottage. Belmont Cottage came from its proximity to Belmont Mansion. Some thought it housed servants from that mansion.
The name Boelson itself sometimes appears as Boelsen. Imagine the confusion for historians. The cottage has seen many changes. A wooden shed was added around 1950. In 1989 and 1990, the Friends of the Philadelphia Parks renovated it. They then used it as their office. However, this renovation replaced many original features. The floor, windows, and doors are not original. Much of the woodwork and ironwork also got replaced.
Boelson Cottage is more than just an old building. It is registered on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places. It also appears in the Fairmount Park Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a link to Philadelphia’s distant past.
The cottage’s history has some conflicting information. Some sources suggest a later construction date around 1800. This differs from the commonly accepted 1678-1684 timeline. Also, some believe it served as servant’s quarters for Belmont Mansion. Others claim it was Boelson’s personal home.
Despite these discrepancies, Boelson Cottage remains a significant landmark. It represents early colonial architecture in Philadelphia. As you stand here, consider the generations who lived and worked near this small cottage. They witnessed the growth of a city around them.
Today, Boelson Cottage reminds us of Philadelphia’s rich heritage. It connects us to the early settlers. It symbolizes their enduring legacy. Take a moment to appreciate this piece of history. Boelson Cottage continues to stand, telling its story to all who pass by. Its gambrel roof and fieldstone walls speak of centuries gone by.