Picture this a grand stone house on a corner lot. This isn’t just any house. This is the Mary & Frances Wister Studio. It stands proudly at the end of Clarkson Street east of Wister Street. Built in 1868 this house holds a remarkable story.
The Mary & Frances Wister Studio was once home to the William Rotch Wister family. William was a successful businessman known as the Father of American Cricket. His wife Mary and their daughters Mary Channing and Frances Anne lived here until 1876. They then moved across the street to a larger house called Wister.
The Mary & Frances Wister Studio wasn’t just a family home. It was the birthplace of two extraordinary women. Mary Channing became the first woman on the Philadelphia School Board. She also led the Philadelphia Equal Franchise Society. Her sister Frances Anne was a founder of the Philadelphia Orchestra. She’s also celebrated for starting the Society for the Preservation of Landmarks. These women were pioneers advocating for women’s rights and historic preservation.
Imagine the family life within these walls. Hear the laughter of children growing up. See the family gatherings. The echoes of their progressive views resonate even now. This house witnessed pivotal moments in Philadelphia history.
The Mary & Frances Wister Studio is more than just a building. It’s a legacy of a family. It represents the achievements of two remarkable women. It stands as a testament to their contributions. La Salle University acquired the property in 1994 naming it the Mary & Frances Wister Studio. It’s a fitting tribute to their impact on Philadelphia and beyond. This house a symbol of their strength and determination remains a vital part of the city’s heritage. The Mary & Frances Wister Studio is a window into the past a testament to women’s achievements. It is a place where history comes alive.