New Legislation Protects Historic Highlands Mansion In Montco

WHITEMARSH, PA — Montgomery County's 18th century Georgian mansion and its gardens are under protection thanks to recently passed legislation.

Highland Mansion, a 44 acre estate in Whitemarsh Township featuring a two acre garden, a springhouse, greenhouse, and other historic buildings, is now owned fully by the Highlands Historical Society.

That's thanks to the efforts of State Rep. Mary Jo Daley, whose 48th legislative district includes the grounds.

“Diligent work by many people who have been involved over a long period of time has paid off, as the HHS now has oversight of this wonderful property located right here in the 148th,” Daley said in a statement. “This transfer ensures the preservation of the Highlands Mansion and Gardens, allowing our community to treasure this space for years to come.”

Daley included the transfer of ownership of the property to the Historical Society in a bill last fall. Gov. Wolf ultimately signed it into law last week as part of Act 135.

While the Historical Society owns the property, Whitemarsh Township has also acquired a $3 million conservation easement on the property. This partnership provides funding the Society needs for basic maintenance, while giving the township final approval over any large expenditures.

The land was originally purchased by Philadelphia area politician Anthony Morris in 1794, with the original Georgian-style mansion completed in 1796.

The property has exchanged hands multiple times since then, but it was the Sinkler-Roosevelt family that ultimately donated the property to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1957.