Cedarcroft, National Historic Landmark in Chester County, Pennsylvania
Cedarcroft is a brick Italianate house in Chester County that features tall ceilings, multiple fireplaces, and a prominent staircase in its entry hall. The estate includes a carriage house and garage on roughly 3.7 acres (1.5 hectares) and contains seven bedrooms and six bathrooms.
Built between 1859 and 1860 for writer Bayard Taylor, the house represented a significant investment for the author. The construction costs exceeded expectations and created financial pressures on the household.
The house was named a gathering spot for writers and thinkers of the 19th century who came to exchange ideas and discuss literary matters. This role as an intellectual meeting place shaped how the property was used and remembered by future generations.
The property is located within the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District in Pennsylvania. Plan ahead and check current visiting conditions before your trip, as hours and access may vary.
A time capsule containing personal items and a copy of Bayard Taylor's first travel book was buried beneath the cornerstone when it was laid in 1859. This hidden keepsake provides a personal glimpse into the life and interests of the house's original owner.
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