Belmont Mansion, Philadelphia

Belmont Mansion, situated in Fairmount Park, holds historical significance as a prime example of Palladian architecture in the United States. It was constructed in the early 18th century and has served various purposes throughout its history, including housing the Underground Railroad Museum since 2007. Belmont Mansion's name also extends to the surrounding neighborhood known as Belmont.

The property was originally purchased by William Peters, an English lawyer and land manager for the Penn family, in 1742. He subsequently designed and built the mansion in 1745, adorning it with formal gardens.

As the American Revolution approached, ownership of the estate transferred to William's son, Richard Peters, Jr., who was born there. Richard held prominent positions such as Speaker of the Pennsylvania Assembly, Pennsylvania State Senator, and Judge of the United States District Court. He also conducted agricultural experiments on the estate, utilizing it as a model for scientific agriculture.

During this period, notable figures like George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison frequented the mansion.

In 1869, the property became part of Fairmount Park to protect the water supply's quality. In preparation for the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition in 1876, a sizable dining pavilion was constructed alongside the mansion. Belmont received recognition on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places on June 26, 1956. It continued to be used for public events until it was transformed into a historic house museum managed by the American Women's Heritage Society in 1986. Additionally, the complex is available for special events and rentals.