Woodford Mansion: Discover Colonial Elegance and Philadelphia History

Nestled in East Fairmount Park along the scenic Schuylkill River, the Woodford Mansion stands as a stunning example of colonial Georgian architecture and a treasured window into Philadelphia’s 18th-century elite life. Built between 1756 and 1758 for William Coleman, a wealthy merchant, jurist, and close friend of Benjamin Franklin, this historic house museum invites tourists to explore the lifestyle, art, and culture of early America’s prosperous class while enjoying one of Philadelphia’s most elegant summer retreats.

A Glimpse into Philadelphia’s Colonial Past

Woodford Mansion is notable as the first of Philadelphia’s grand colonial Georgian mansions, showcasing the height of architectural sophistication in the pre-Revolutionary period. William Coleman, who served as a justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, envisioned Woodford as his country estate on 12 acres of land—intended as a “gentleman’s retirement” away from bustling urban life.

With its symmetrical Palladian-inspired design, Doric frieze, and finely crafted woodwork, the mansion epitomizes refined colonial tastes and the influence of classical Greek and Roman design. Visitors encounter a grand parlor featuring one of America’s finest carved overmantles, a formal entry hall topped by an elegant coved ceiling, and airy rooms flooded with natural light and period furnishings that reflect 17th- through early 19th-century American decorative arts.

The Mansion’s Storied Ownership and Expansion

Following William Coleman’s death in 1769, the mansion changed hands several times, each owner contributing to its growth and history. In 1772, David Franks, a loyalist merchant and supplier to the British Army, added a second story and rear kitchen wing, tripling the mansion’s size. Over the decades, modifications added Federal-style mantles, expanded living areas, and adapted the home for evolving lifestyles.

In 1869, the City of Philadelphia acquired Woodford to add to its protected Fairmount Park lands, marking a transition from private estate to public heritage site. The mansion served as the park guard headquarters and traffic court before undergoing restoration and being opened as a museum in 1930.

The Naomi Wood Trust and the Museum Collection

Since 1927, the Naomi Wood Trust has managed Woodford Mansion, preserving and displaying an exceptional collection of American colonial furniture, decorative arts, English delftware, and clocks. The Trust was established by the notable collector Naomi Wood, whose vision was to create a museum capturing the period’s elegance and craftsmanship.

Today, Woodford’s interiors are furnished with diverse pieces highlighting Philadelphia’s importance as a center of furniture making in the 18th century. Visitors can admire fine examples of Windsor chairs, intricately crafted mantel clocks, and delicate ceramics that tell stories of artistry and daily colonial life.

Experiencing Woodford Mansion Today

Visitors to Woodford Mansion can enjoy:

• Guided Tours: Expert guides reveal the architectural significance, family stories, and cultural context behind the home and its collections. Tours run Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM.
• Restored Gardens and 18th-Century Piazza: In 2020, a major restoration resurrected the mansion’s original piazza, complete with Tuscan column reproductions and period-appropriate hand-made Windsor chairs. The surrounding gardens and orchards offer tranquil spots to relax and enjoy Philadelphia’s natural beauty.
• Educational Programs: The mansion hosts lectures, workshops, and community events fostering appreciation for colonial history, decorative arts, and preservation.
• Special Events: Seasonal celebrations and historical reenactments bring colonial Philadelphia to life for families and visitors.

Nearby Cultural Gems to Enrich Your Philadelphia Tour

Woodford Mansion is perfectly situated for tourists eager to dive deep into Philadelphia’s cultural richness. Nearby museum destinations that complement a visit include:

• Natural history and conservation highlights at the Academy of Natural Sciences
• African American heritage and culture at the African American Museum in Philadelphia
• The world-renowned art collections of the Barnes Foundation
• Interactive science and innovation exhibits at the Franklin Institute
• The awe-inspiring sculpture of Auguste Rodin at the Rodin Museum
• Revolutionary history at the Betsy Ross House
• Early scientific advancements at the Wagner Free Institute of Science
• American art and local culture at the Woodmere Art Museum
• Visit the oldest building in New York at the Wyckoff House Museum
• Archaeology and anthropology exhibits at the Penn Museum
• Literary collections at the Rosenbach Museum & Library
• History of science and technology at the Science History Institute
• The rich firefighting history at the Fireman’s Hall Museum

Plan Your Visit to Woodford Mansion

• Address: 2300 N 33rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19132
• Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 4 PM
• Admission: Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Discounts available for seniors, students, and groups.
• Accessibility: The mansion offers accommodations for wheelchairs and visitors with disabilities. Contact ahead for specific needs.
• Parking: Free parking available nearby.

A Journey Through Philadelphia’s Colonial Elegance

Woodford Mansion invites visitors to immerse themselves in the refined world of colonial Philadelphia’s elite, exploring architecture, art, and lifestyle that shaped early American culture. The mansion’s storied history, remarkable furnishings, and peaceful park setting create a memorable and educational destination for tourists of all ages.

Enhanced by connections to Philadelphia’s vast museum district, Woodford Mansion provides a uniquely intimate portrait of history and design, bridging past and present in a way that is both inspiring and accessible. Start your discovery of Philadelphia’s cultural heritage by planning a visit today.

For more information about tours, exhibits, and events, please visit the official museum website at Woodford Mansion.

Visit Woodford Mansion

• Name: Woodford Mansion

• Address: 2300 North 33rd Street (GPS), 3400 West Dauphin Drive, East Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, PA 19132

• Phone Number: (215) 229-6115

• Email Address: woodfordmansion@gmail.com

• Map Location: 2300 North 33rd Street on Map

• Ticket Information:

  • Adults: $8

  • Seniors 65+: $5

  • Teens (13-17) and students with valid ID: $5

  • Children 12 and under: Free

• General Admission: Guided tours Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Last tour begins at 3:30 p.m. Closed on New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Tickets can be reserved online or purchased at the door.

• Accessibility: No specific public details but located in a public park with parking available; public transit access via SEPTA bus 49 or 32 (33rd and Dauphin stop).

• Additional Visitor Information:

  • Woodford Mansion is an 18th-century country house built 1756-1758, a National Historic Landmark featuring a collection of 17th- to early 19th-century furnishings.

  • Located in East Fairmount Park, near other historic sites and Philadelphia cultural attractions.

  • Free parking behind the house and on nearby streets.

  • Monthly themed tours and seasonal events like the Apple Festival and Orchard tours occur here.

  • Group visits and school tours can be arranged by contacting the mansion directly.