Hamilton Mansion.

Great news for the historic Woodlands Cemetery and Mansion and all those who participated in their latest ambitious fundraising effort of raising $218,000 to restore the Hamilton Stable, the only remaining outbuilding from the 18th century.

“The Woodlands community contributed over $218,000 to restore the stable’s façade – which means you helped secure an extraordinary $612,000 challenge grant to restore the [Hamilton] Mansion from the William B. Dietrich Foundation,” reads a recent message by The Woodlands Executive Director Jessica Baumert. The McLean Contributionship, Connelly Foundation, and Wunsch Foundation also provided generous support of this project.

Photos courtesy of The Woodlands.

In a addition to the restoration of the Hamilton Mansion and Stable, the re-construction of the Cryptoporticus has resumed. The contractors have been numbering each brick before removing them from the sagging arch (pictured right). Then, the 18th century bricks will be put back in their original location using a mortar.

The Woodlands also announced some new and annual programs taking place this spring (the Woodlands is located at 40th and Woodland).

Sunday, April 12 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Your West Philadelphia House: How old is it? Who lived there?

Join The University City Historical Society at The Woodlands for a “how to” workshop, and learn to research the history of your own West Philadelphia house! Uncover your house’s story!Cost: Free to members of University City Historical Society or The Woodlands, $10 for non-members. Make your reservations here. 

May 2 – May 10

Birding Smackdown

Bartram’s Garden and The Woodlands are joining forces again for a friendly, out-of-the-nest competition to determine who can claim they’re the hottest spot for birds and birders. A handful of great bird walks and events for all ages and levels are also planned during the week of the competition. Click here for more information.

Saturday, April 25, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Go West! Craft Fest

The Spring 2015 edition of Go West Craft Fest is on April 25 (rain date April 26). Featuring 100 local art & craft vendors, live music, acrobatic performances and food by local eateries, GWCF is open to the public and free to attend. More information is available here.

Thursday, June 4, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

4th Annual Benefit

The 4th Annual Benefit at The Woodlands will feature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music and good company! Individual tickets will be available for purchase on April 15. More details are here.