Woodford Mansion, Philadelphia

Woodford Mansion stands as the earliest of Philadelphia's grand colonial-era homes in the local vicinity, showcasing the affluence of the late-Georgian period. Its construction spanned from 1756 to 1758, encompassing an expansive 12-acre plot (approximately 49,000 square meters). The mansion served as a modest 1½-story summer retreat for William Coleman, a prosperous merchant and a justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

Following Coleman's passing in 1769, the property changed hands and was acquired by Alexander Barclay, a Quaker who held the position of His Majesty's Customs Comptroller for the Philadelphia port. Tragically, Barclay passed away in 1771, and the mansion subsequently fell into the ownership of his brother-in-law, David Franks. Franks, in 1772, embarked on a significant expansion project, adding a second story and a kitchen wing to the structure, nearly achieving its current size.

In 1869, the city took ownership of Woodford, incorporating it into Fairmount Park. Over the years, the mansion served various roles, initially as the residence of the Park's Chief Engineer and Supervisor, and later, in 1912, as the headquarters for the Park Guard and a traffic court.

In 1927, restoration efforts were initiated, culminating in 1930 when Woodford opened its doors to the public as a house museum, a status it continues to hold. Managed by the Naomi Wood Trust, the museum now houses the Naomi Wood collection of antique household items, featuring Colonial-era furniture, unique timepieces, and English delftware.

Notably, Woodford is recognized as a contributing property within the Fairmount Park Historic District, receiving the prestigious designation of a National Historic Landmark in 1967.