Belmont Mansion (Philadelphia) facts for kids
Belmont Mansion in 2009
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| Location | Philadelphia |
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| Public transit access |   SEPTA bus: 38 |
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Philadelphia Register of Historic Places
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| Designated: | June 26, 1956 |
Belmont Mansion is a historic and beautiful house located in Fairmount Park in Philadelphia. It was built a long time ago, in the early 1700s. This mansion is a fantastic example of Palladian architecture, a special building style. Since 2007, Belmont Mansion has also been home to the Underground Railroad Museum, sharing important stories from history.
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Building a Grand Home
The story of Belmont Mansion began in 1742. An English lawyer named William Peters bought the land, which was then a group of farms. Peters himself designed and built the mansion in 1745. He also created lovely formal gardens around the house.
A Meeting Place During the Revolution
As the American Revolution drew closer, the estate became home to William's son, Richard Peters, Jr.. Richard was born at Belmont Mansion. He held important jobs in Pennsylvania, serving as Speaker of the Pennsylvania Assembly and later as a judge.
Richard Peters, Jr. was also interested in science. He used the estate farm to try out new ideas in scientific farming. Many important leaders of the Revolution visited the mansion during this time. These guests included George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison.
Belmont Mansion in Fairmount Park
In 1869, Belmont Mansion and its property became part of Fairmount Park. This was done to help protect the city's water supply. Before the big Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia in 1876, a large dining hall was built next to the mansion.
Belmont Mansion was added to the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places on June 26, 1956. The site continued to be used for public events. In 1986, the American Women's Heritage Society began managing it as a historic house museum. Today, you can still rent the complex for special events.
In June 2007, a very important addition was made: the Underground Railroad Museum opened at the mansion. This museum helps tell the stories of freedom seekers. The mansion also gave its name to the nearby neighborhood of Belmont.
See also
