They built Belmont Mansion in Fairmount Park and resided there for generations. Along the way, the family went from slave-owners to abolitionists.
The mansion played a role in the Underground Railroad movement in the 1800's. Spared from the wrecking ball 25 years ago by a group of women who knew something if its history, .They would come to learn much more.
A Temple University graduate student researched the property and discovered its links to escaping slaves. That's how the Underground Railroad Museum was added to the site in 2007.
In just five years, without regular stops from public transportation, a million people have visited.
You begin by watching a film about the movement, and interactive exhibits then lead you on a self-guided tour.
You'll hear the story of Cornelia Wells, who went from Peters family slave to indentured servant.
You'll get acquainted with free black businessman William Still, a Center City coal merchant who spent much of his money making Philadelphia a major channel on the route north to freedom. And you'll also be able to explore much of the building, getting a feel for its public and private purposes more than a century ago.
The American Women's Heritage Society operates the site. They frequently make the premises available for public meetings and receptions. It's a popular choice for weddings, overlooking the city skyline from Belmont Plateau.
There is a small charge to visit the mansion and museum...$7.00 for adults, $5.00 for students and senior citizens. Children under six are free. School groups are also welcome.
The society has partnered with the School of the Future and the Global Leadership Academy, which send students who train as docents. They will be hosting visitors and explaining its history.
Belmont Mansion is located in West Fairmount Park on Belmont Mansion Drive, just off the Montgomery Avenue exit of the Schuylkill Expressway.
The mansion and museum are open weekdays except Mondays from 11:00am to 5:00pm, and weekends from 12:00 Noon to 5:00pm.
In summer, weekend visits start at 11:00am.
For more information, phone 215-878-8844, or go to Belmont Mansion.
