by Chrissy Clawson | May 21, 2024 | Blog
Julia Hebard Marsden House has been altered and expanded over the years. It is now owned by Chestnut Hill Hospital. In 1977, it became the Chestnut Hill Health Care Women’s Center—Chestnut Hill Conservancy Archives.
Monday, May 13, 2024
By Chrissy Clawson, Programs and Communications Manager
Amid the backdrop of Historic Preservation Month, Chestnut Hill celebrates a significant victory—an outcome of collaborative efforts between the Chestnut Hill Conservancy and Temple Health – Chestnut Hill Hospital. At its May 10 meeting, the Philadelphia Historical Commission unanimously voted to list the Chestnut Hill Hospital’s Women’s Center at 8835 Germantown Avenue in the Philadelphia Register. Formerly known as the Julia Hebard Marsden House, the Chestnut Hill Hospital Women’s Center is a testament to the community’s resilience, having been crafted through the adaption of a former historic home.
This victory marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing journey to preserve our community’s architectural and cultural legacy. Congratulations to both organizations and the Chestnut Hill community for this preservation win. The conservancy expresses deep gratitude to Councilperson Cindy Bass’s office and the Philadelphia Historical Commission for their ongoing involvement in the negotiations.
Designed in a Georgian-influenced Colonial Revival style by the accomplished and prolific architect Charles Barton Keen (1868-1931), the former Julia Hebard Marsden House is listed on the Chestnut Hill National Register Historic District as a significant architectural resource. Built in 1903 for Julia Hebard Marsden and her husband, Dr. Biddle Reeves Marsden, the house is a distinctive and characteristic example of the Colonial Revival style. Reusing the former home and doctor’s office into the Chestnut Hill Women’s Center is an excellent example of an institution evolving to benefit itself and the greater community’s needs. This transition from residential to institutional use is important for this building.
The Women’s Center, the last intact historic building on the hospital’s campus, enjoys a rich historical narrative. However, in 2021, discussions emerged about replacing this architectural landmark, prompting the conservancy to swiftly nominate it for preservation. A delicate negotiation ensued between hospital representatives and the conservancy, aiming to balance preservation concerns with the hospital’s operational needs.
Ultimately, a compromise emerged to protect the main building’s most visible parts while allowing for future growth by excluding the rear ell and carriage house from the designation.
Although the carriage house was excluded from the designation boundaries as part of the compromise, the commission encouraged collaboration between the conservancy and the hospital to document the Carriage House’s legacy for posterity.
The agreed-upon boundary, coinciding with the southern section of a larger parcel known as 8811 Germantown Avenue, encompassed the main block of the house along with its east and west wings. Notably, the rear wing lay outside the designated boundary, while the west wing, having undergone alterations, retained the potential for future modification or removal.
Future alterations or additions within the delineated boundary will undergo scrutiny by the Historical Commission, ensuring the property’s historical integrity for generations to come.
In navigating preservation challenges, the Chestnut Hill Hospital Women’s Center emerges as a success, where compromise facilitates the harmonious coexistence of heritage and progress. The compromise by the Chestnut Hill Conservancy and Temple Health ensures that the legacy of the Julia Hebard Marsden House endures as a testament to the community’s ability to grow and evolve and the preservation of its architectural heritage.
by Chrissy Clawson | Feb 8, 2024
Saturday, March 9, 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Chestnut Hill Conservancy, 8708 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118
Free, but registration is required
Register by clicking HERE
Join the Chestnut Hill Conservancy for “Historically Comfortable: Energy efficient heating and cooling solutions for historic homes.” featuring HVAC expert Chris Wilson from Unique Indoor Comfort.
Chris Wilson’s expertise spans over 17 years in the HVAC industry, with a notable focus on retrofitting historic structures. Beginning his career with Unique Indoor Comfort, he honed his skills over six years as an installation manager and later excelled for 11 years as a sales rep and project manager. Renowned for his meticulous approach, Chris specializes in marrying aesthetic solutions with preservation, which is evident in projects like the George Woodward Co. and the restoration of the Zimmerman Grist Mill. His dedication to excellence has made him a trusted figure in the industry, with a reputation for seamlessly integrating modern technology while respecting architectural heritage.
During his presentation, Chris will delve into various topics, including load calculations, duct design, building envelope enhancements such as air sealing and insulation, and installing hydronic and steam boilers. Learn about the latest advancements in forced air gas, hybrid, heat pump, and geothermal systems, as well as the benefits of ductless mini-split and high-velocity central air conditioning solutions. With a team of dedicated professionals and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Unique Indoor Comfort, its affiliated brands, and Ace Hardware strive to provide the best in home preservation services.
Don’t miss this opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable knowledge from an industry expert.
This free community program is made possible through the generous support of the program sponsor, the Conservancy’s general and supportive businesses, and is done in collaboration with the Chestnut Hill Community Association.
If you would like to submit any questions in advance, please email Conservancy Programs and Communications Manager Chrissy Clawson at chrissy@chconservancy.org.
The Conservancy’s Ask the Experts is a free program done in collaboration with the Chestnut Hill Community Association. Ask questions and get solutions through our free community program that addresses a featured topic by a local expert on prevalent issues relating to historic homes and landscape care.
by Chrissy Clawson | Aug 1, 2023
Join us for a captivating afternoon of historic preservation at the Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s Ask the Experts “Window Restoration Workshop” on Saturday, September 23, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.
The Chestnut Hill Conservancy hosts this free event in collaboration with the Chestnut Hill Community Association. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to delve into the art of window restoration. Discover the secrets of reviving timeless windows while maintaining their historical charm.
The workshop will be led by two distinguished experts: Ray Tschoepe and Andrew Staples.
Ray Tschoepe’s rich background encompasses both academic achievement and practical expertise. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Master’s program in Historic Preservation, Ray’s career path includes serving as an independent restoration contractor and later as the Director of Conservation at the Fairmount Park Historic Preservation Trust, which later became the Conservancy. With nearly three decades of experience in the field, Ray brings a wealth of knowledge to the workshop.
Ray’s co-expert, Andrew Staples, brings invaluable insights to the event. Andrew is the Conservation Supervisor at the Fairmount Park Conservancy. Having been brought up around the trades, he developed an interest in the history and development of construction techniques and technologies. Andrew holds an MA in Archaeology of Buildings from the University of York in the UK.
The workshop will begin with an interactive workshop followed by a brief Q&A session, offering attendees the chance to interact directly with these seasoned professionals. Whether you’re a preservation enthusiast, homeowner, or simply curious about historic architecture, this workshop is a must-attend event.
Take advantage of this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of window restoration and contribute to preserving Chestnut Hill’s architectural legacy. Mark your calendar for September 23, 1:00 – 3:00 PM, at 8708 Germantown Avenue. We look forward to welcoming you to this enriching and educational event.
Registration is required, and space is limited.
REGISTER HERE: https://chconservancy.app.neoncrm.com/eventReg.jsp?event=63&
A free program for the community, Ask the Experts addresses a featured topic by an expert on prevalent issues relating to historic home and landscape care, with free access to the Archives. Ask questions; get solutions!
Organized by the Chestnut Hill Conservancy and co-sponsored by the Chestnut Hill Community Association.The 2023 Ask the Experts Series is made possible through the generous support of sponsor Wallace Landscaping Associates and our supporting businesses.
by Chrissy Clawson | Aug 1, 2023
Night of Lights is a distinctive evening event that brings thousands to Chestnut Hill to experience Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s innovative public art streetscape exhibition. Night of Lights reflects Chestnut Hill, the business corridor, and one of America’s iconic main streets, Germantown Avenue.
Join us in 2023 as Chestnut Hill’s familiar commercial corridor transforms into a local history and Archive evening exhibition for nine nights.
From the “Flip the Switch” on October 6 to October 14, historical images and films project from the Conservancy’s Archives through storefront windows and onto exterior walls.
At the same time, neighboring historic buildings along the Avenue are illuminated with theatrical lights. Night of Lights is more than an architecture and Archives evening exhibition; it is a celebration of Chestnut Hill’s rich heritage, the vibrant spirit of its residents, and the thriving business community that contributes to its undeniable charm.
Using the commercial corridor as a canvas for sharing and interpreting multiple layers of neighborhood history, Night of Lights is a truly participatory, community-based event that offers visitors and long-time residents a free and accessible opportunity to discover the neighborhood’s history while becoming active participants in the stories being told.
Our opening night “Flip the Switch” ceremony features an exciting lineup of live activities to kick off Night of Lights at 6:45 PM on Friday, October 6. The lively evening in Chestnut Hill featured some of our best Night of Lights traditions, including interpreters at projection windows, community storytellers, music, and our Ask the Archivists table. Enjoy many participating businesses, restaurants, and retail stores that keep special late hours for opening night.
In 2023 we will feature eight slideshows and multiple light installations highlighting the design and architecture in Chestnut Hill along Germantown Avenue.
On Sunday, October 8, the Chestnut Hill Business District will host Fall, their annual for the Arts festival. Small group ticketed walking tours with local historians and experts will be on sale soon for three evenings the week of October 8, when the Avenue is less crowded. Participants can enjoy headsets and special insights on the slideshows, projector locations, and Chestnut Hill’s business corridor. Visitors to Night of Lights can enjoy additional virtual features in our mobile experience, the “Pastport.”
The Night of Lights Pastport will help guide the exhibition and features the event map, building histories, and schedule of experiences. Remember to bring your completed Pastport, stamped at every thematic slideshow projection, to the Conservancy office at 8708 Germantown Avenue to win a prize.
by Chrissy Clawson | Aug 1, 2023
Night of Lights is a distinctive evening event that brings thousands to Chestnut Hill to experience Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s innovative public art streetscape exhibition. Night of Lights reflects Chestnut Hill, the business corridor, and one of America’s iconic main streets, Germantown Avenue.
Join us in 2023 as Chestnut Hill’s familiar commercial corridor transforms into a local history and Archive evening exhibition. Beginning as we “Flip the Switch” on Friday, October 6, at 6:45 PM, enjoy an interactive night filled with activities and celebrations as many stores and restaurants stay open late.
The celebrations continue until 9:00 PM as historical images and films project from the Conservancy’s Archives through storefront windows and onto exterior walls.
At the same time, neighboring historic buildings along the Avenue are illuminated with theatrical lights. Night of Lights is more than an architecture and Archives evening exhibition; it is a celebration of Chestnut Hill’s rich heritage, the vibrant spirit of its residents, and the thriving business community that contributes to its undeniable charm.
