Built in 1789 Strawberry Mansion stands proudly. It wasn’t always called Strawberry Mansion. Originally known as Summerville this grand house had a fascinating past. Judge William Lewis a renowned abolitionist lawyer built it. He was a prominent figure in American law. He even advised both George Washington and Alexander Hamilton.
Later Judge Joseph Hemphill expanded the mansion. He added the beautiful Greek Revival wings. These wings give the mansion its distinctive look today. Hemphill was a distinguished judge and congressman. He was also involved in pottery manufacturing.
The name Strawberry Mansion came much later. Around 1846 farmers rented the mansion. They served strawberries and cream to visitors. This charming practice gave the mansion its unforgettable name. The name eventually extended to the surrounding neighborhood.
Strawberry Mansion wasn’t just a restaurant. It became a symbol of the area’s wealth. In the 1880s home prices here were higher than in most of Philadelphia. The neighborhood saw different communities call it home. Jewish and German families were early residents. Later African American families became the dominant group.
Today Strawberry Mansion is a beloved historic house museum. It’s part of Fairmount Park. It’s filled with antiques and treasures. It stands as a testament to the rich history of this vibrant neighborhood. A visit reveals the stories of those who shaped its past. Strawberry Mansion is more than just a house. It is a living piece of Philadelphia’s history.