Ravenhill

Ravenhill is a Renaissance Revival mansion in East Falls featuring refined stone construction with intricate architectural details located on School House Lane. The building overlooks Wissahickon Valley and currently functions as administrative offices for an educational institution.

The mansion was designed in 1887 by architect Willis Gaylord Hale for William Weightman, a chemical manufacturer who built his wealth in pharmaceutical production. It later became Ravenhill Academy and operated as a private school before shifting to its current use following a merger in 2017.

The property served as a school where Grace Kelly, who later became a princess, studied during her youth. The place held meaning as an educational center that drew families from prominent backgrounds.

The building sits in East Falls and is visible from outside, though it now functions as private grounds with limited public access except for special occasions. Visitors can appreciate the exterior architecture and valley views from nearby School House Lane.

The original estate sprawled across approximately 27 acres containing rare and exotic plants that reflected the owner's passion for botany. This extensive grounds have since been greatly reduced, with only small portions of the former horticultural collection remaining today.

Location: Philadelphia

Creator: Willis G. Hale

GPS coordinates: 40.01547,-75.19639

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:10