Details
Creator Taylor, Frank H. (Frank Hamilton), 1846-1927
Title Mount Pleasant, East Fairmount Park
Date ca. 1922
Description Depicts a large, elaborate home and two outbuildings, as well as people and early automobiles. The house had been owned by Cpt. John McPherson, Benedict Arnold, Baron von Steuben, and Gen. Jonathan Williams.
Notes Mount Pleasant Mansion in East Fiarmount Park was built by Captain John McPherson prior to the Revolution, with prize money gained in privateering during the French and English War. John Adams is said to have pronounced this the finest country seat in Pennsylvania. Its chief historic interest rests in its purchase by Benedict Arnold, military governor of Pennsylvania, upon his marriage with the beautiful Miss Shippen. It was here that the couple sojourned in brief happiness prior to the act of Arnold's treason. After the Revolution the Baron von Steuben lived here for a time. The property was purchased in 1796 by General Jonathan Williams, a member of Congress and the first commandant of West Point Military Academy. It was acquired by the city in 1867, when Fairmount Park was extended to include this suburban section.
Taylor Catalog Number: 154
Is part of Frank H. Taylor Collection
Identifier Taylor - Case 3-11 [2717.F]