Powel House

The Powel House is a Georgian mansion in Society Hill featuring ornate Rococo plasterwork on ceilings, mahogany paneling throughout its rooms, and a formal walled garden. The interior spaces showcase the craftsmanship and wealth of the family who made it their home.

The house was built in 1765 by Charles Stedman and later became home to Samuel Powel, who served as Philadelphia's final British-appointed mayor and then its first elected mayor after independence. His tenure bridged the transition from colonial rule to a new nation.

Elizabeth Willing Powel hosted regular gatherings where prominent figures like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin met to discuss matters of the day. The house served as an important meeting place for intellectual exchange during a critical time in the nation's development.

The house is open to visitors on select days of the week and guided tours are available to explore the historic rooms and their furnishings. It helps to learn about tour times in advance to make the most of your visit.

The ballroom features one of the most elaborate Rococo plasterwork ceilings produced in colonial North America, crafted by James Clow. This decorative achievement often goes unnoticed by visitors, though it stands among the most remarkable details in the entire house.