Explore the gothic, medieval-style Fonthill Castle in the heart of Bucks County
DOYLESTOWN, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- Henry Chapman Mercer of Doylestown was one of a kind. And his life's work of crafting tiles and collecting artifacts can still be explored a century later.
In the early 1900s, he sought out to create a medieval-style castle that would serve as his home. It became known as Fonthill Castle.
"Mercer actually wanted it to be a museum from the very beginning," said Thomas Schmitz, Manager of Community Services. "He installs things like 4,000 year-old Babylonian clay tablets right here in his dining room."
The home is outfitted with early 20th-century amenities despite adopting the style of a castle from the Middle Ages. With its cozy atmosphere, personal touches, and intricately-crafted tile work, staff and guests at Fonthill Castle are made to feel like Mercer is still alive today.
"It's crazy, I mean, in the bedroom, sort of thinking about, imagining if you were waking up to all of the tiles, like, it would be a very, very cool experience," said Nicole Cook, who visited during a family reunion.
Fonthill Castle and its partner, the Mercer Museum, are open on Tuesdays through Sundays for tours. To learn more, visit their website.
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