The Living Legacy of

The John Welsh House to Keystone House

Paula M. Riley With David T. Traupman The Evolution of 8765 Stenton Avenue

Early 1700’s Hannah Callowhill Penn, the second wife of William Penn, owns a dower farm house at the core of the property and the surrounding land 1864 John Welsh chairs the U.S. Sanitary Fair 1867 Original rooms of current home are designed by James C. Sidney and built as a summer residence for William Platt late 1860’s John Welsh purchases the home 1876 U.S. Centennial Exhibition 1886 Upon John Welsh’s death, Nicholas Biddle purchases the home from the Welsh family. Shortly thereafter, Major General Caldwaller Colden Washburn purchases the home as a wedding gift for his daughter, Jeanette, and son-in-law, Albert Warren Kelsey, whom rename it “Rauhala” 1892 Louis C. Hickman designs Rauhala’s back wing expansion 1900-1905 Albert Kelsey, Jr. is instrumental in establishing Philadelphia’s current Benjamin Franklin Parkway design 1908 Joseph Warren Darling, grandson of Jeanette and Albert, born at Rauhala 1919 Albert W. and Jeanette Kelsey celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary 1921 Albert W. Kelsey dies at Rauhala 1927 Albert Kelsey, Jr. designs “La Maisonette”, located directly behind the original house 1930 Jeannette Kelsey dies at La Maisonette 1950 Albert Kelsey, Jr. dies 1962 Jay Cooke purchases Rauhala from Joseph Warren Darling 1987-1997 Developer Eliot Krems owns the property and operates it as “Westmeade”, a residential treatment facility 1990 The property is listed as “The John Welsh House” on the National Register of Historic Places 1997 Keystone Hospice, under the leadership of Joan Smith-Reese and Gail Inderwies, leases the property and establishes “Keystone House”, the first freestanding residential hospice in southeastern Pennsylvania 2004 Keystone Hospice purchases the property 2006-2007 Keystone Hospice undertakes a major exterior renovation project 2007 Keystone House celebrates its 10th Anniversary Paula M. Riley With David T. Traupman The Living Legacy of

The John Welsh House to Keystone House

Contents Foreword Celebrating Centuries of Caring 4 Chapter One Family, the Heart of a Home 14 Chapter Two A Legacy of Influential Leaders 22 Chapter Three Embracing a Passion for Generosity 30 Chapter Four A House of Many Names, A Home to All 35 Endnotes 36 Bibliography Acknowledgements The authors are indebted to Richard Snowden and Elizabeth Jarvis for their efforts in preserving the extensive collection of Kelsey family documents through the Chestnut Hill Historical Society, and to the Springfield Township Historical Society for their assistance in accessing this collection. We are grateful to these previous house residents who provided valuable information and insight — John M. Dallam, William Maderia, and Mary Rose Nuse — as well as to Marleen Riley for her creative ideas and detailed review of the manuscript. We extend our deepest gratitude to Mrs. Ann M. Beal for graciously sharing her memories of Rauhala and for providing a copy of Vena Helene McNab Darling’s interview of her father Joseph Warren McNab Darling, which proved invaluable in bridging the past to the present. A heartfelt note of appreciation to the Keystone House residents, their families, and their friends who have shared their special memories with us to preserve important legacies. And lastly, gratitude for the Keystone family of staff and volunteers, those noted in this book as well as the hundreds of others, who demonstrate the true spirit of generosity within the walls of this blessed house each and every day.

Anniversary Edition First Printing, September 2007 The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart

Foreword Celebrating Centuries of Caring

On April 1, 1998, the Academy of Natural Sciences, Academy of Music and the University Keystone House welcomed of Pennsylvania. its first hospice resident, After John Welsh died in 1886, Albert a homeless man named and Jeanette Kelsey were given the estate as a wedding gift from the bride’s father. Jimmy. The young newlyweds were enchanted As he stepped through the front door, with the home’s bucolic setting, and Jimmy froze in his steps, amazed by the renamed it “Rauhala”, Finnish for beauty of the place he could now call home. “peaceful place”. The couple spent fifty Without realizing it, Jimmy was following wonderful years here, raising their nine the footsteps of hundreds of others whose children and numerous grandchildren. lives brought them to 8765 Stenton Avenue The tall windowpanes were witness to in Wyndmoor throughout the last two deep bonds of family that were nurtured at centuries. Rauhala. Multiple generations of Kelseys strived, as John Welsh did, to enhance the In order to understand what makes quality of life for city residents and perform Keystone House so unique, it is necessary charitable works within Philadelphia and to appreciate the lives of those who, throughout the world. for generations before Jimmy, resided within this home’s secure stone walls Half a century after the last Kelsey and benefited from the restorative descendant moved from Rauhala, dynamic atmosphere of its pastoral setting. leaders and a family of believers committed to serving the needs of the terminally ill The house is listed on the National embraced the home. Keystone House, Register of Historic Places as “The John the first residential hospice in Southeastern Welsh House” in recognition of its most Pennsylvania, was established in 1997 as prominent inhabitant. Considered a a state model for providing holistic care nineteenth century Philadelphia City in a homelike atmosphere. Inspired by Father, John Welsh was an influential the work of Mother Teresa, who advocated leader and philanthropist responsible for for the sanctity of life for every human the city’s great international success as host being, Keystone Hospice’s philosophy is of the Centennial Exhibition of 1876, based upon her belief that every person the first world’s fair in the U.S. Welsh has a right to die with dignity. This is cherished his native city, dedicating his practiced daily at Keystone House fortunes and talents towards its growth and where residents receive progressive, prosperity. He was a founding member of comprehensive end-of-life race regardless both the Fairmount Park Commission and of medical diagnosis or one’s ability to pay. Episcopal Hospital and also helped expand

1 Celebrating Centuries of Caring

This book was published to not Our hope is that they continue weaving only commemorate the completion of the stories of their lives into this peaceful Keystone House’s 2006-2007 exterior place; building upon the foundation its renovations, but to also acknowledge its earliest inhabitants so bravely and so previous residents’ legacies of pioneering compassionately set forth. leadership, deep family connections, Gail A. Inderwies and lasting, caring contributions to Founding Executive Director, Keystone Hospice Philadelphia and beyond. September 27, 2007 Rather than present a chronological accounting of residents’ lives and accomplishments, fascinating stories are interwoven to convey the interconnected legacies that have been carried on from John Welsh to the present day. Powerful support and compassion for the human condition, a deep desire to contribute to the community and a commitment to family have permeated the walls of this home and the hearts of its dwellers throughout the past two centuries. Keystone Hospice is proud to be the current responsible steward of this extraordinary home. With the completion of extensive exterior renovations, we have ensured that Keystone House is preserved for future generations.

2

Chapter One Family, the Heart of a Home

Though they called it different names, the Welsh family and multiple generations of the Kelseys created lasting memories in the home and on the grounds of the present day Keystone House. When the property was turned into apartments many families lived here, experiencing both the good and challenging times that family life brings. Keystone Hospice is proud of this rich history of family connectedness that is core to the house’s legacy. Since its inception, Keystone has worked to create and maintain this atmosphere for its employees, family members and most of all, its residents.

A Welcoming Second Home Dorothy Barrett lived at Keystone House for two years until she passed away in 2003. Her husband Jim, their four children and grandchildren celebrated Dorothy’s birthday at Keystone each April. Christmas and Thanksgiving included visits from their children and grandchildren throughout the day. Aside from these special holidays, it was the daily interaction and homey atmosphere of Keystone House that made the Barretts so comfortable. Dorothy and Jim regularly shared dinner in the dining room and then retired to the old-fashioned Resident care aide Laverne porch where Dorothy enjoyed watching spends some time with Dorothy. the cars go by and feeling connected to the outside world. When her daughters Jim believes the staff of Keystone House is came to visit, they would often paint her what makes it such an extraordinary place. fingernails, style her hair, and share special He was amazed at the stimulation and moments together in the cozy living room. extra care his wife received at Keystone. What moved him was the music, “There Jim describes his experience at was so much music everywhere. The Keystone House saying, “I just about music therapists and volunteer harpists lived there with her.”1 He grew close to brought wonderful sounds to the old staff members, residents and other family home.” What was most beautiful to Jim members. He recalls the stream of people was the joyous singing that freely occurred that visited Dorothy’s room — volunteers, in the house and on the porch. “It truly family members, and friends. They were was a family environment,” says Barrett. welcomed into Keystone House as though “The atmosphere at the house had a visiting Dorothy & Jim’s Wyndmoor home. profound impact on Dorothy. When she first arrived,” Barrett explains, “no one

Albert & Jeannette Kelsey celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary at Rauhala. (The Kelsey Collection, Springfield Township Historical Society) 4 The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart expected her to live more than three or four The John Welsh House: 2 weeks, but she was there for two years!” All Roads Lead to Home Not everyone who has been touched by Keystone was able to stand beside loved John Welsh made the original 1867 house ones in their final days. Annabel Baum’s his summer home and later his principal residence in the 1870s. He shared days son, David, died far from home in Alaska there with his second wife, Mary Lowber and she wished there had been a place Welsh, and their many children. As they like Keystone House for him during his grew older, most of their children remained last days. Moved by this desire, Annabel in the area as Welsh had given them land sponsored and decorated a resident room as to build their own homes. His son John’s a personal tribute to her son. Since David property was located behind his own on had loved to travel, she memorialized his Montgomery Avenue, at the end of traveling spirit by including the postcards Birch Lane. Welsh’s daughters lived in she received from him as part of the room’s architectural cottages on Welsh’s property décor. A glass bowl sits in the room full of in Germantown near Spring Bank. seashells, reminiscent of David’s fondness for the seashore. Residents’ families are The Kelseys’ Rauhala: invited to take a shell with them when they leave as a way of continuing her son’s A Refuge from the World legacy. Over the years, Annabel has After moving into the John Welsh House in returned to the house to replenish the 1886, newlyweds Albert & Jeanette Kelsey supply of seashells. Keystone House’s very renamed the home “Rauhala” (Finnish for first resident, Jimmy, stayed in this special “peaceful place”). This seemed the perfect room. Annabel visited him and he was name for the property’s pastoral setting as deeply moved by this kindness that he described by Samuel Hotchkin, “Birch rarely experienced on the streets. Lane runs along side of the property. Jimmy tearfully thanked Annabel “There There is a sweet rustic lane, which for providing him with are angels in the in its wilderness appears to be a beautiful and peaceful far away from the rush of city place to spend his final days. house, everywhere. life, with is ‘maddening crowd’. There is a beautiful Joan Bradley lost her And when you leave, spring on the property near husband Pat when he was they go with you.” the lane with two basins to barely 50 years old. A fixture in contain the water and a country path the Chestnut Hill community, Pat Joan Bradley and a miniature waterfall are striking was adored by his large extended family and points in the landscape, while overhanging life-long friends. As they banded together trees add beauty to the scene. A stream to support Pat at Keystone House, they runs along the base of the hill with the cattle demonstrated that bonds of love can feeding on the hillside, in the early morning, weather any trial. On any given day, where the pasture extends along Birch numerous visitors came to chat with Pat, Lane, present a scene which would delight comfort his sons, or to just be present. a painter like Rosa Bonheur.”4 In many The months that Pat and Joan’s families ways, the home was a place of peace where and friends spent at the hospice were Kelsey family meals were shared, games summarized by Joan in this simple statement played and celebrations held. Other days it “There are angels in the house, everywhere. was full of noise, chaos of children playing, And when you leave, they go with you.”3

5 Family, the Heart of a Home and sibling arguments. Mostly though, days invited other local children suffering the at Rauhala included the routines and rituals fever to spend their convalescence at of an affluent turn-of-the-century family. Rauhala. Just as Keystone House was the Although there was a servant staff of first hospice in the region to open its doors Catholic maids, an Irish cook, chamber- to pediatric residents, the Kelseys received maid and seamstress, Jeanette Kelsey still these sick children with open arms. required her daughters to share the chores. While recuperating, the young Kelsey Each one acted as supervising housekeeper girls stayed busy by creating a document for one month, overseeing five house they called “The Scarlatina Times”. It was servants, and ordering and planning meals. written very much like a newspaper of The outside servants included a staff their day with two long columns that of Protestants: one full-time and three included short articles, poems, drawings, part-time gardeners. Albert W. Kelsey did personals, stories, and reports from a local not want his staff fraternizing too much so correspondent. The publication provides he always divided the servant staff, hiring insight as to how their days were spent, both Catholics and Protestants, assuming chronicling family affairs. Their newspaper that their religious differences would keep begins with the following acrostic: them separate from each other. S for Seven Sufferers with Scarlatina red The next generation of Kelseys was responsible for their share of chores as well. C for the Contagion which we hope Charlotte’s children had to accompany will not spread their Aunt Kate & Aunt Mary to the A for all Attentions kind and cutting garden to cut flowers they used most Assiduous care when decorating the first floor rooms. R stands for the Rosy Rash, As experienced by all whose loved which all its victims wear ones come to Keystone House, the L for Laziness and Luxury, Kelseys struggled with family illnesses of which we’ve had a round over the years. In letters exchanged A for all Available Amusement to be found between Albert Sr. and Jeanette in July of 1909, he writes, “Our dear grandson gets into T for Tonics, sweet and bitter, the worst convulsive coughing fits. Everyone and for time so sadly wasted has been assisting Charlotte in caring for him, I for Iron in the mixture, but he won’t take his milk. I told her to sweeten though it hardly can be tasted the milk and put it in his mouth with a spoon. N for Nights of fevered vision, He is very weak, and looks quite different from all too horrible lo tell when you left.”5 The grandson, who had a very bad case of whooping cough, A for the good old maxim, 6 recovered after a long illness. “All’s well that ends well” When the Scarlet Fever epidemic came Throughout the paper entries, the girls to Philadelphia in the early 1900s, the write of visitors to the house, their fellow Kelseys were not immune to its affects. fever sufferers and of each other. They Kate, Mabel and Mary Kelsey spent many announce the weather as well as their days quarantined at Rauhala fighting the neighbors’ happenings, “Mr. Allen Ramsey fever. They were not alone. The Kelseys has had an addition to his house of a rustic

6 The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart

The front page of the Kelsey girls’ “The Scarlatina Times”, and its porch that improves editors Mary & Kate Kelsey 7 the place very much.” (Kelsey Family Collection, The papers tell of their Chestnut Hill Historical Society) Christmas celebration and a New Year’s Tea Party. The poems contained in the “The Scarlatina Times” best describe their state of mind. One is quite insightful. It was written for their oldest brother Albert Jr., who became an architect:

To A. Kelsey The sketch you made is really fine Pray, can it be a boy of mine Turns out so clever I never dreamed such genius lay In that small headpiece hid away Or “hardly ever” impression on each of them, for they each I’ve searched the Encyclopedia through possessed a spirit and zest for life that For names of Architects who drew added much excitement to their lives. And never tired Mary spent many years in Europe and Completing monuments and towers the Soviet Union, following her passion to To beautify this world of ours care for war refugees. Kate embraced life, By all admired loved the arts and cherished time spent And on the lengthening roll of Fame with her many nieces and nephews. Methinks I see A. Kelsey’s name Mabel was the ‘Gibson Girl’ of the family, In letters glowing considered the most social and funniest Beside Sir C. Wren’s name I spy aunt by her nephews and nieces. Joseph That of my son in my mind’s eye W. Darling, grandson of Albert Sr. and And feel like crowing Jeanette, recalls her later years when he Yet, should you chance to fall below would visit his Aunt Mabel in a nursing Sirs Christopher or (Giotto?) home. She would mix a Manhattan with The thought’s too trying bourbon and tell him, “Your conscience I’ll bid my muse a swift goodnight is like a sofa, to be sat upon!”9 Let me put out the candle light, Like children in all homes, the kids I’m almost crying! 8 living at Rauhala sometimes misbehaved. Joseph W. Darling remembers one day All of the Kelsey girls who suffered the when he was caught climbing up on a fever recuperated and later returned to rose pagoda at the end of the cutting their normal activities. Their experience flower garden next to his grandfather fighting the fever may have had a lasting Albert Sr.’s study. The old man came

7 Family, the Heart of a Home outside quite perturbed, afraid his The pool was also a source for family grandson would fall from the pagoda. entertainment. Albert Darling, Joseph’s Albert Sr. was carrying a buggy whip that brother, gained a reputation for his late he flicked at Joseph to remind him he night dips with friends after spending should never do it again. The young boy the night out drinking. The noise they learned his lesson and never did. made often awoke all the members of Joseph and the other grandchildren the household. played a game they called “Milky Way”. As in many families, special relation- On most weekdays, they were served a ships existed between specific members. breakfast of gruel, cream of wheat and Joseph, along with his siblings and cousins, cream, soup and sometimes toast with considered Aunt Kate and Aunt Mary their butter, brown sugar or jam. The children favorite aunts. Kate often read stories to would put a pat of butter on the end of a them in the library by a gas light with a knife and flip it in the air so the butter Bunsen mantle. Tale of Two Cities, Moby would sail to the ceiling, stick there and Dick, and other classics were among the leave what they dubbed a “Milky Way”.10 stories the children enjoyed; delighting in In his later years, Joseph was known to their aunt’s expressions and vivid accounts that brought the stories to life. refer to Rauhala as ‘raul-holler’11 because of the scrapes, noise and hollering the Aunt Mary drew fabulous color castles children made. Many fun activities kept with damsels in the tower and knights in the noise level high and the Kelseys busy shining armor coming to rescue the damsel over the years. Generations of Kelseys in distress. She was known for her excellent played on the tennis court that was parallel drawing of dragons and once drew to Stenton Avenue. Afternoons were spent St. George on a white steed coming to save on the large lawn by the greenhouse in the the damsel from the dragon. It was, however, early twentieth century where the adults and her fairy tales that the children liked the children played croquet and other running best. She told marvelous tales with princes, games. Joseph recalls summer nights where ogres, dragons and damsels in distress. the only light came from the fireflies and The Kelsey family included a few the moon when he and his cousins played members who experienced great “Red Rova, Red Rova, move no fartha”. challenges in their lives. The birth of

The Kelsey family enjoys an afternoon on the grounds of Rauhala. Albert Jr. is at far left with his arm in a sling; Jeannette & Albert Sr. are seated at far right. (Kelsey Family Collection, Chestnut Hill Historical Society) The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart

Jeanette’s youngest child, Bonnie Bell, was time, there were three apartments on extremely difficult as she had puerperale each floor and theirs was in what is now fever at the time. As a result, Bonnie the living room of Keystone House. was born intellectually disabled. She is Nuse, now in her nineties, stands in the remembered as being extremely sweet but living room recalling their time there, also very irritable and highly volatile. The “Over here, well, that’s where we put up family cared for Bonnie the best they could a table and two chairs to eat our meals. but when her illness worsened, she had to The horse from the stable next door would be institutionalized. Ethel was the second put his head right up to that window.”13 youngest Kelsey. An artist, known for her The fireplace burned cannel coal that never watercolor drawing and sweet and sensitive seemed to keep the cold out of the house. ways, she married and moved to Maine There was a swimming pool on the property with her husband Bertrum Wentworth. where Nuse loved to spend hours in the Eventually Ethel had a nervous breakdown summer. Looking back she says, “I had and also was institutionalized.12 nothing to do but lie beside the swimming 14 Albert Darling, Jeanette’s grandson, pool and wait to get pregnant.” lived a turbulent life. He was known for Nuse moved to Oreland where she and exploits with his friends and numerous Jack raised seven children over the years. business ventures. A charming, good- Their first year of marriage when they looking man, Albert Darling is remembered lived at the house remains very special to for landing a small airplane on the grounds her. Sixty-three years after moving out of of a private estate as he arrived for his girlfriend’s coming out party. Known for taking antiques and other items from Mary Rose Nuse Rauhala, he was often seen running out as a young woman the house with these under his arm and (left) and today as hopping a train to Philadelphia where he a Keystone Hospice would sell them. volunteer (below). His sister-in-law, Ann Beal recalls the day she chased him to the train station when she discovered he had stolen a mattress. Since she was in hot pursuit, he ran as fast as he could, carrying the mattress on his head. Albert, who perfectly timed these exploits with the train’s Rauhala, Nuse departure schedule, jumped up on the returned to train just as it was pulling out of the station. Keystone House as Fortunately for Ann, the mattress did not a volunteer. She now fit through the train doors. As the train left dedicates one day a week, the station, Albert was carried away but spending time with residents the mattress was left at the platform. and offering them hand and foot massages. When they decline the massages, she sits An Adaptable Home and visits with them, asking about their for Many Families lives. Like in so many families, the conversations are intimate, discussing both In 1939, Mary Rose Nuse and her husband, happy and tragic times. “We talk about Jack Eagleson, were young newlyweds who everything — hobbies, jobs, kids” she leased an apartment in Rauhala. At the explains, “but mostly we talk about the 9 human legacy and the wonderful memories Family, the Heart of a Home

they hold.”15 Fascinated by these stories, Like the galas hosted by the Kelseys and she has documented oral histories of many Darlings, the Madeiras frequently welcomed hospice residents. relatives and friends to enjoy each other’s Nuse’s memories at Rauhala include company and celebrate their bonds. the ones she shared with her young A Haven for Celebrating husband as well as those she has shared with her Keystone Hospice family. She Life’s Joys and Experiencing explains that the spirit of the home has its Transitions not changed, “There was a certain charm from the onset that was still there when Several of Albert and Jeanette Kelsey’s I returned.”16 children were married at Rauhala with family-centered celebrations. One of the Twenty years after Mary Rose and Jack first children married was Charlotte. moved from Rauhala, the Madeira family Her wedding however, almost did not moved into what had become Tenant occur. When Joseph Robinson Darling House A. The Madeiras were shocked came to Rauhala to request permission to discover later that they were direct from Albert Kelsey Sr. to marry Charlotte, descendants of John Welsh through her father immediately declined. Joseph paternal grandmother Maris Welsh. W. Darling, her son, explains, “Albert, It was the late 1960s and the family of being a conservative, looked with disfavor five teenagers and two parents loved the upon my father, the ex-Californian with a house, experiencing both happy and trying British accent and mustache.”18 He finally moments during the country’s turbulent relented and Charlotte (Lottie) and Joseph times. The teenagers were loud and R. Darling were married at Rauhala on boisterous, each finding his way during the August 8, 1907. The Evening Telegraph chaotic sixties, struggling with the challenges announced that the ceremony would be of high school and college studies. held at 6:30 o’clock and be witnessed only “It was during the hippie times,” says by the immediate family. Relatives and Bill Madeira who was a teenager when intimate friends were invited to Rauhala he lived there, “We had some flamboyant, for a small reception from 7-9 o’clock. pretty radical behavior.”17 He laughs as he tells of his single college-aged brother who just disappeared from home one day. His return a few weeks later shocked his parents, since he was accompanied by his new wife. Bill has many memories of the years he and his siblings spent together in the large old home. Friends dropped by often and their residence was the site of many memorable parties. Christmas night was always interesting. The family shared a meal together and then the house was transformed into a huge holiday gala. They cleared the furniture from the large dining room to provide ample space for the hundreds of guests they had invited.

In 2005, hospice staff and volunteers helped Rae, a young woman living at 10 Keystone House, realize her dream of attending her 2005 high school prom. The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart

Charlotte’s sister Mabel wed Winthrop Christmas celebrations began early on Stanley Parker on November 12, 1912. Christmas morning with the young Kelsey The wedding ceremony was facilitated by children opening their stockings in their the Rev. J. Andrews Harris. Eight years beds and cribs while shouting, “Merry later on June 23, 1920, her younger sister Christmas” to each other. The children Ethel married Bertrand H. Wentworth. participated in decorating the Christmas Rev. Roger Forbes performed this ceremony. tree and opening many gifts. Boxes of Following these church ceremonies, presents arrived from relatives in receptions were held at Rauhala.19 Cambridge and Washington, along with In June of 1919, Albert and Jeanette many cards and greetings. One year, the Kelsey celebrated their 50th wedding gifts received by the young children anniversary at Rauhala with their children, included a rocking chair, antique cups 22 grandchildren, and many friends and and saucers, artwork, and knitting. relatives. An announcement in the local Birthday celebrations were also special newspaper includes portraits of Jeanette occasions at Rauhala. A huge birthday and Albert, as well a brief biography of party was held for the patriarch of the him. It notes that guests will be received Kelseys, Albert Sr. His fourteen grand- from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. and that the children came from various cities to couple will be assisted in receiving guests celebrate with him. Albert’s grandson, by their eight children. A comment is Joseph, recalls the long table on the included stating that the Jade Fence of lawn near Birch Lane where everyone sat the Pan-American Garden, designed by enjoying ice cream, cake and a wonderful Albert Jr., was to be unveiled in time with each other. He considered this Washington on that same day.20 celebration with all of his cousins as one of 23 Kelsey documents include a journal that the happiest events of his childhood. was given to Jeanette & Albert at their Just as other major life milestones were anniversary celebration. This small booklet marked at Rauhala, so too was its final transi- is full of family and friends’ greetings, tion. Death, a natural part of life’s cycle, is well wishes, and advice. Most entries interwoven into the legacy of this house. are handwritten anecdotes, poems or Albert W. Kelsey was 81 years old when pleasantries. The poem below was taped he died at Rauhala. The Kelsey archives into the book and best describes the are full of numerous sympathy cards and 21 family atmosphere of Rauhala. letters sent to Jeanette praising the man to whom she was married for over 50 years. One letter in particular captures a message of a lesson that the death of a loved one teaches. John Story Jenks, a prominent Philadelphian and close friend of Albert, penned a letter to Jeanette expressing his sorrow for her loss. He commented on the funeral, saying it was “a most impressive and beautiful one”24. He thanked Jeanette for the poem she had sent to him as a remembrance of her husband:

11 Family, the Heart of a Home

April 12th archivist who saved hundreds of papers, letters, documents, and other family In life – not death treasures. As an illustration of this Hearts need kind words commitment to preserving the past, Ann to help them on their way Beal explains, “In her belongings, I found Need tender thoughts and gentle sympathy a bag with an orange peel inside it. A Caresses, pleasant looks to cheer note bore the sentence, ‘Albert W. Kelsey each passing day sucked this orange on a hill in France’.”27 Then hoard them not – until they useless be Celebrating major life events and In life – not death holidays are still integral to life at Keystone Speak kindly, living hearts need sympathy. House. The residents’ spouse, partner, -E.G.H.25 siblings, children and grandchildren often come to share special days together. The Jeanette lived at Rauhala for ten more years living room, dining room and “blue room” following her husband’s death. After bustle with excitement and people of all suffering from a bronchial ailment for ages. Sounds of children laughing and two weeks, Jeanette died at Rauhala babies crying fill the air as families in 1931 when she was 80 years old. celebrate holidays, birthdays, Her daughters Kate and Mary anniversaries and reunions. were by her side. She The precious Some of the wonderful had lived at Rauhala for family traditions over half a century. memories of family bonds Keystone residents have upheld include Unlike her mother, and unconditional love are serving grandma’s Kate Kelsey did not engraved on the hearts of those famous pie recipe, want to die at Rauhala. holding a lively game of She had spent a decade who have called 8765 cards after dinner and living on the third floor of Stenton Avenue home. retelling a favorite story. the house where her lifelong friend Nellie Hood visited Kate Of all the families who have regularly and Kate’s nephew and his family lived at Keystone House, only a few have brought her meals. One day she told her their memories documented as carefully nephew’s wife, Helene Darling, “I’m dying. as the Kelseys recorded them. Rather, My feet are turning black and I do not the precious memories of family bonds want to be a burden. Take me to Fairview and unconditional love are engraved on (Nursing Home).” Helene told Kate that the hearts of those who have called 8765 she did not want her in a nursing home Stenton Avenue home. The residents for it was Kate’s legacy to die at Rauhala. who have lived at Keystone House have Kate however, insisted. Helene’s daugh- brought their own stories and left their ter-in-law, Ann Beal clearly recalls the day own legacies. They are remembered Kate left Rauhala, “As she was leaving the because of the uniqueness of their lives house, her grand nephews were playing in and the lasting impact they have left on the yard. She proclaimed to them, ‘I am each member of the Keystone family. leaving now. My legacy to you is to always For almost two centuries, the house has tell the truth and shame the devil’.”26 been host to a colorful cast of characters and fascinating family dynamics — Kate’s legacy went well beyond those all interconnected through the unique words. She is credited as the family experience of family.

12

Chapter Two A Legacy of Influential Leaders

In serving as a pioneer in its field, Keystone Hospice follows a long line of leaders who have resided at 8765 Stenton Avenue.

One of the earliest owners of the core property when it was just a dower farm- house is believed to have been Hannah Callowhill Penn.1 She was the second wife of William Penn, the first colonial proprietor of the Province of Pennsylvania. After her husband’s strokes in 1712, she became acting Proprietor of Pennsylvania.2 While in this role, the Crown put great pressure on her to surrender the colony for a cash settlement which would relieve the Penn family of debt. Hannah Penn, through careful planning and difficult decisions, was able to prevent the surrender of the colony to the Crown.3 Due to her John Welsh financial management, the proprietary colony remained in the hands of Hannah’s and generate enthusiasm for city projects branch of the Penn family until the and improvements distinguished him Revolution. Penn later became the first as a favorite City Father. woman awarded the status of Honorary He experienced great financial success Citizen of United States. This honor, when he shifted the family mercantile which was conferred to her by President business, S. & W. Welsh, to the importation Ronald Reagan through a Presidential and refining of sugar and the West Indies Proclamation in 1984, cited her “devotion Trade. This allowed him to dedicate a to the pursuit of peace and justice”.4 great deal of time and resources to enhancing the city of Philadelphia. A Philadelphia City Father One of Welsh’s earliest roles was A half century after the Penn family President of Philadelphia’s Board of Trade. owned the property, a beloved Philadelphian This became the largest such businessmen’s and prominent merchant, John Welsh, organization in the country and a principal purchased the property for use as a summer source of the movement that established home and later as his principal residence. a National Board of Trade in 1869. Welsh was a member of Philadelphia’s Welsh served as president of the Board of gentry and one of the most influential Trade for fifteen years, beginning in 1866. Philadelphians of the nineteenth century. The momentum with which he pushed the A grand statesman and savvy businessman, growth of the Board of Trade made him an his ability to affect change, influence others easy choice for the role as chair of the

Left: Opening day crowds gather in front of the Art Gallery (now Memorial Hall) in anticipation of the opening ceremonies of the Centennial Exhibition. 14 (Courtesy of the Print and Picture Collection, The Free Library of Philadelphia) The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart

Left: An overview of the 1864 Central Fair of the U.S. Sanitary Commission grounds in Logan Square. Right: An ariel view of the expansive buildings and grounds of the Centennial Exhibition. (Courtesy of the Print and Picture Collection, The Free Library of Philadelphia)

Central Fair of the United States Sanitary from what, in the early stages, seemed Commission.5 like a certain collapse. The Central Fair was a huge event, The Centennial Exhibition was a held in Philadelphia’s Logan Square, June monumental event. Over 250 buildings of 1864. It raised funds to care for Union were constructed within the exhibition’s soldiers, set up hospitals, and teach troops grounds that included 450 acres of how to avoid disease. Welsh oversaw all Fairmount Park that were dedicated for the planning and execution of the fair, coordi- event.8 Temporary hotels were constructed, nating the efforts of local businesses and streetcar lines increased service and the institutions who donated products and Pennsylvania Railroad ran special routes services. The fair rose over $1,000,000 by to accommodate the millions of visitors. charging admission, selling donated items, Even a hospital was built on the exhibition’s and holding raffles, exhibits, and concerts.6 grounds. Twenty-six states erected their Welsh is best known however as the own buildings for exhibition receptions man who saved the U.S. Centennial and visitors and thirty-seven countries Exhibition of 1876. The U.S., and specifically exhibited at the exposition. Fairmount Philadelphia, worked hard to win the Park’s Memorial Hall, Horticultural Hall chance to host this, the first world’s fair and Ohio House are the three buildings held in the United States. Securing such designed and built for the exhibition that a huge international event was a great remain in the park today. achievement for the U.S. and the city of Throughout the entire event, Welsh was Philadelphia; however, the Centennial constantly in the public eye. On opening Exhibition was at great risk during its early day, he stood with President Ulysses S. planning stages. The financial collapse Grant welcoming visitors to the exhibition. that resulted from the Panic of 1873 put Welsh spoke after the president, showing the exhibition on the brink of failing. his great excitement for the upcoming Welsh became the president of the board exhibition and his appreciation to the citizens of finance committee; resolving its early of Philadelphia who worked tirelessly to financial difficulties by overseeing the sale make the dream of the exhibition a reality. of $1,700,000 in stocks.7 Essentially, Welsh Welsh also hosted the many dedications took on total responsibility for planning and receptions held to welcome each of and executing the exhibition and saved it the participating states. His speeches were

15 A Legacy of Influential Leaders

greeted, and often interrupted with his departure, a farewell banquet was held hearty and prolonged applause.9 Welsh’s at the Aldine Hotel in Philadelphia and unfaltering leadership and ability to transform attended by the most distinguished men of the failing project into a great success made the city. A public reception was hosted for him an overnight hero to the citizens of him the following day at the Academy of Philadelphia and his fellow Americans. Fine Arts. This was attended by hundreds of This amazing achievement also brought citizens, grateful for his undying dedication him international acclaim. The exhibition and commitment to the city he loved to welcomed nine million visitors over six call home. Upon his arrival in Liverpool, months and allowed the United States to he was welcomed warmly and received demonstrate its industrial achievements many congratulatory addresses. During to the world. The greatest impact his service in Great Britain, many honors perhaps was the strong sense of were conferred upon him including nationalism it produced in the those from the king of Sweden and hearts of Americans. On the Norway, the emperor of Japan, and last day of the exhibition, the princess of Cyprus, Jerusalem 13 Welsh delivered a speech and Armenia. at closing ceremonies. John Welsh died at his Spruce He concluded by comment- Street home in Philadelphia in ing, “Our work has its place April of 1886 and his Stenton in the annals of the nation. Avenue property was later sold If the memories of it be to Major General Cadwallader pleasant to our countrymen, Colden Washburn. we have done well.”10 A Prominent Family Tree Welsh’s knowledge and interests spanned a variety of areas. He held a passion and its Many Branches for city planning and was a member of the original board of the Fairmount Park Major General Washburn purchased the Commission. He served sixteen years on home and property as a wedding gift for the commission, including as its president his daughter Jeannette Garr Washburn from 1885-1886.11 Welsh was such a strong and her husband Albert Warren Kelsey. advocate for urban planning in Philadelphia Though Major General Washburn never that he incurred, at his own expense, resided on the property, his leadership and numerous trips to Britain and various service to his country left a lasting impact European cities to collect ideas and tour on his daughter and descendants. new districts. He was most enchanted with During the Civil War, Washburn the broad avenues and small parks in organized the Wisconsin Volunteer Cavalry London and Vienna. Welsh believed that for the Union Army and earned his rank Fairmount Park could model these and as major general. Washburn came from serve as the primary device by which a family of political and business leaders. neighborhoods could be maintained. He He served as the Governor of Wisconsin for advocated for Philadelphia to incorporate one term, U.S. Congressmen for ten years, small parks and avenues to its city planning.12 and was one of the seven famous Washburn Near the end of his life, Welsh served brothers; three of whom served their his country as the U.S. Ambassador to the country in roles of governor, congressional 14 Court of St. James from 1877-1879. Prior to representative and U.S. Secretary of State.

Photo inset above: The arm of the Statue of Liberty was a feature of the Centennial Exhibition. (Courtesy of the Print and Picture Collection, The Free Library of Philadelphia) 16 The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart

Albert Warren Kelsey and Jeannette Garr Washburn Kelsey (Kelsey Family Collection, Chestnut Hill Historical Society)

The Major General and his brothers At the beginning of the Civil War, are famous for their relationships with Kelsey served on the U.S. Navy Ship President Abraham Lincoln. In 1860, The Wissahickon as part of the blockade of Washburn introduced Lincoln as the Florida. One day he was commanding a Republican candidate for president at navy cutter in the Florida bayous. Soon the Republican Convention.15 under surprise attack by the Confederates, Washburn’s contributions extended Kelsey held tight to the boat’s tiller, despite into the private sector. After his public being shot in the knuckles. Only he and service, he entered the milling business, his mate survived by hiding among the built a flourmill on the Mississippi River reeds and managing to wade back to the in Minneapolis, and formed Washburn, seashore. Family legend tells that upon Crosby and Company that, in 1928, Kelsey’s return to the ship the surgeon planned to amputate his hand. Kelsey became General Mills, Inc.16 stopped him by holding a Navy Colt 44 Like her father Major General to the doctor’s head. Kelsey treated his Washburn, Jeanette’s husband Albert hand on his own by soaking it in rum and possessed a strong work ethic and wrapping it around a bottle to keep it from leadership skills. Kelsey was an industrial contracting. This resulted in him having economist and free trade advocate who a “claw” hand for the rest of his life.19 was one of the first members and Advisory Committeemen in the International Jeanette Kelsey’s accomplishments Free Trade League. Known for his were noted in their own right. Not only encouragement and financial support, he did she birth and raise nine children, she helped resolve various crises experienced was a free-lance journalist and author of several books. Her published works, by the League during his tenure.17 Most noted locally, he served as the director of include Clouded Amber, Weathering the Storm, the old Germantown Trust Company of and On the Heights, written under the Philadelphia that, after various mergers, penname Patience Warren. She worked hard to promote her books and created is now Wachovia Bank.18 numerous variations and drafts of her

17 A Legacy of Influential Leaders

work — always seeking to perfect each Pennsylvania State Association of piece. She was also the author of many Architects and technical advisor to the short stories. Her artistic abilities extended Philadelphia Housing Association.23 into the world of ceramics; Jeanette was an His architectural and city planning skills accomplished ceramicist who produced were recognized outside of Pennsylvania. many pieces including fruit baskets, plates Kelsey was an appointed member of the 20 and decorative items. Columbus, Ohio Planning Commission. Sowing Further Seeds In 1904, he was appointed by the Louisiana Purchase Exposition of Accomplishments management to build the Model The children of Jeanette and City Exhibit. Of the many Albert W. Kelsey modeled the honors he received, one of the skills and accomplishments of highest was the decoration of their parents. Most famous of the Commander of the Royal these children was their eldest, Order of Isabella in recognition Albert Kelsey, Jr. Described of his work with the Pan- in his obituary as a “great and American Union Building and vivid individualist”21, he was an the Columbus (OH) Memorial accomplished architect best known Lighthouse, commemorating for his design of the Pan-American the landing of Columbus in Union Building (Organization of Santo Domingo.24 American States) in Washington, D.C. Perhaps his greatest Locally, he is recognized for designing the civic accomplishment Tudor-style village of Carson College for was his involvement Orphan Girls in Flourtown (now known as in Philadelphia city Carson Valley School), and the Haddington planning. He was a Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia. champion for the Albert’s design resum´e includes Edgewood design of the High School of the Sacred Heart in Philadelphia Parkway, Madison, Wisconsin, University Baptist now known as the Church of Austin, many buildings at Benjamin Franklin Chautauqua College in New York, as well Parkway. Through his as private residences in Philadelphia. involvement with the Like John Welsh, Kelsey left his mark Art Federation, an on Fairmount Park, designing the small alliance of artists and fountain at the entrance to the Park at designers, his roles as Germantown Avenue.22 Albert Kelsey Jr. was better known throughout Philadelphia for his participation in various organizations than he was for his architectural work. He was a member of the T-Square Club and the Philadelphia Chapter of the AIA. Kelsey served as founder and president of the Architectural League of America, president of the

Center top: A replica at of a tile cartouche Kelsey designed for the Pan-American building, now located on the grounds of La Maisonette. Right: Albert Kelsey, Jr. in front of Stork Hill (Primrose) Cottage, Carson College for Orphan Girls (Courtesy of Carson Valley School). Bottom: Kelsey’s 1902 “Parkway Plan as Prepared for the Parkway Association”, 1902. (Courtesy of University of PA, Fine Arts Library, Phila.) The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart

secretary of the Parkway as Governor of Pennsylvania Association and editor of the 1935-’39 and was a Pennsylvania Architectural Annual, he helped Favorite Son at the Republican the vision of the parkway be Convention in 1940.28 realized.25 The fifth child of Albert and Albert’s sister Mary Kelsey Jeanette, Cadwallader (Carl), was a converted Quaker who was known for his entrepre- was intensely affected by the neurship and various inven- stories she heard of the Soviet tions. Always experimenting, Revolution. With fellow he strung electrical wires from Society of Friends members, the barn at Rauhala to a friend’s she traveled to Russia to Kate Kelsey standing home on Bethlehem Pike. provide direct care to the sick in front of Rauhala, 1923 It became the first telephone and starving victims of the (Kelsey Family Collection, line in Chestnut Hill before Chestnut Hill Historical Society) Soviet Revolution. Her the telephone company volunteer work also brought her to installed its own lines and phones. Western Europe where she was involved His system was used for years before the in relief work for refugees in Belgium, new one came in.29 Holland and France during the First World War. For a short time, she lived in Carl’s genius led to the invention of what a former port of Paris called Honfleur. he considered one of the first automobiles There, she hosted a summer conference in America. It is a three-wheeled vehicle called the Honfleur Conference that invited with a single wheel in the rear. It has a university students from America and four-cycle, one-cylinder engine with a Europe to discuss international, political vaporizer. Family legend tells that he and economic affairs. This conference was drove it up the steps of the Philadelphia held annually in the late 1920s.26 Art Museum just to demonstrate its capacities.30 This vehicle is now in the Like her sister Mary, Kate Kelsey was collection of the Smithsonian Institution in unafraid to pursue her passions. A devout Washington, D.C.31 Carl spent much of his Quaker, she was a visible leader of the life dabbling with inventions, pursuing new women’s suffrage movement in Philadelphia. businesses and, as family lore holds, making As an outspoken supporter, she participated and losing millions of dollars over the years. in the famous Women’s Suffrage March down Philadelphia’s Broad Street. Kate Charlotte (Lottie) Kelsey Darling, Carl’s considered her arrest and the time she older sister was the second woman ever to spent in jail for protesting two of her pass the bar exam in the Commonwealth proudest moments.27 of Pennsylvania. Lottie was inspired to become a lawyer by the character Portia Albert Darling, Albert & Jeanette’s in Shakespeare’s Merchant of Venice. Her grandson, was also politically active. When father’s first response to her request to he was in his early seventies, he purchased attend law school was, “Why? It’s impossible a large flatbed trailer containing an old for you to be a lawyer.”32 This reply only casket. He painted the casket black with served to motivate Lottie more to pursue DEMOCRAT painted in bold letters. A her dream. She leveraged her family’s strong Republican, Albert wanted to show relationship with Judge Guest who his support. He purchased a large tent-like petitioned the University of Pennsylvania structure on which he painted, “Elect to admit her. They did just that and she George Earle Governor.” Mr. Earle served

19 A Legacy of Influential Leaders

graduated with a law degree from the were enduring. Barely twenty years old, university. she lied about her age so she could go Lottie married Joseph Robinson McNab directly to the battlefield to care for the Darling, who was also a lawyer. Darling wounded. After the war, Joseph became had fascinating, high-profile jobs in the chief of the economics branch of the Army Department of Justice (DOJ) where he during the Berlin Airlift. He retired from worked closely with two presidents. the Army a Colonel and then became the In his first DOJ role, he participated in director of the Office of Foreign Economic the organization of the Federal Bureau of Affairs at the Defense Department. Investigation (FBI). His most noted role was serving in the sub-cabinets of AVisionary Model for Hospice Presidents William Howard Taft and Since the late 1980s, Keystone Hospice Theodore Roosevelt. He later represented Executive Director Gail Inderwies has the Justice Department in the prosecution worked to provide compassionate care of the anti-trust landmark cases of the to ensure dignity for her patients. Roosevelt-Taft era. He is credited as being As a hospice nurse, Inderwies administered one of the government’s foremost “trust care in patients’ homes and offered support busters”33 and for breaking up the Bathtub to families during their loved ones’ final Trust and Ice Cream Cone Trust. He days. Although her concern and compassion wrote “Darling on Trusts”, a landmark touched many patients, ultimately her and book at the time.34 When President Wilson her colleagues’ vision is what has made was elected, Darling lost his job with the Keystone House what it is today. Department of Justice but later became a Colonel during the First World War. During the War, Lottie served her country as well. She participated in Secretary of Commerce Herbert Hoover’s program that oversaw relief for refugees in Belgium and Holland. Service to country and interest in the law was passed onto Lottie and Joseph’s son, Joseph W. Darling. He graduated from Harvard University, earned a master’s degree in business from the University of Pennsylvania and a law degree from George Washington University. The junior Darling served in the Second World War as what he humorously called “a paragraph- 35 trooper of the chair-borne infantry” Secretary of Public Welfare Estelle Richman is honored because he worked in an administrative by Keystone Hospice Executive Director Gail Inderwies capacity in Washington at the Ordinance at the hospice's 2005 10th anniversary recognition event. Department. Anxious to get close to the In 1996, BETAK, an AIDS hospice in action, he requested a position in Europe. nearby Mt. Airy, closed its doors. As result Darling was made a Major and put on of this, Philadelphia Health Commissioner, General Eisenhower’s staff overseas. His Estelle Richman, invited Keystone wife Helene joined him in Europe and was Hospice to establish a residential hospice. moved by the terrible suffering the soldiers Together with Joan Reese, President of

20 The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart

Keystone Home Health Services, Gail was the first to care for a pediatric hospice embraced this huge challenge. The women patient. Keystone also holds the honor shared a vision to create a warm, home-like of being the first hospice program in setting, where individuals living with a Pennsylvania to be accredited by the terminal illness were treated with dignity and National Institute for Jewish Hospice. respect by a professional and compassionate As the first hospice in the mid-Atlantic allied team. The goal was, as it is today, to to staff a full-time music therapist and provide a home in an environment where one of the few hospices in the country to every aspect of the resident’s experience have such an extensive creative therapies is warm and inviting. Through the strong program, Keystone patients benefit from conviction and tireless energy of Joan, Gail musical and artistic outlets where they and many others, Keystone House opened can express emotions and seek support its doors as the first freestanding residential and comfort. In addition, complementary hospice in southeastern Pennsylvania on therapies provide numerous opportunities September 27, 1997. for patient stimulation. Hundreds of There were many challenges and residents have responded to the unique frustrations — funding was always a struggle, music, art, and dance/movement creative the home was in severe disrepair, and the therapies, acupuncture, and massage concept of a residential hospice serving programs. Keystone has led the way in individuals regardless of illness or economic offering these comprehensive programs position remained a concern for some that aid in pain management and contribute neighbors. None of these challenges to patients’ overall quality of life. curbed the enthusiasm that was growing Keystone reaches out to the community stronger every day. The dedicated staff through a broad spectrum of programs to worked even when payroll funds fell short. meet the needs of community, service, Quite simply, leaders, staff, volunteers, school, religious and healthcare groups on donors and supporters all embraced the topics exploring grief, healing, patient care, vision and plans for Rauhala to become hospice, pain management, and health Keystone House. issues. As vocal advocates addressing the The results of the combined efforts were needs of HIV/AIDS patients, the poor and realized when the first patient was welcomed those with significant behavior or addiction to Keystone House on April 1, 1998. issues, Keystone Hospice is a recognized Recalling the moment still brings tears to healthcare leader both locally and nationally. the eyes of many staff members. They Like previous residents, those who clearly remember Jimmy, who stood have called Keystone House home over awestruck in front of the hospice with no the past decade have colorful stories of shoes on his feet claiming, “This place is their own accomplishments. Judges, just too beautiful for me to enter.” schoolteachers, artists, homemakers, Since that defining moment, ministers, newscasters, musicians, Keystone has continued to reach out to business leaders — as well as those who the disenfranchised and those with have no home at all — have all found nowhere to go. In many ways, Keystone comfort at Keystone House. There is a Hospice is a progressive pioneer in its magic to the house that draws a wide range field. In addition to being the first of personalities, professions and peoples. residential hospice program in Southeastern Pennsylvania, Keystone

21 Chapter Three Embracing a Passion for Generosity

Kathleen Carroll wanted to show her learning French and taking piano lessons. appreciation. She had spent many months Kathleen knew that her transformation living at Keystone House where she was was the direct result of the care she was battling stage four metasticized breast receiving at Keystone House. As her cancer. When she arrived, Kathleen, 48, health improved and her strength was drained and bed-ridden, unable to returned, she was overflowing with stand or move on her own. During those energy and life and wanted to months at Keystone House, Kathleen demonstrate her sincere gratitude. received comprehensive medical care as For Kathleen, one of her strongest well as constant love impressions of her Keystone experience and support from was the hospice’s core principle of embracing staff, volunteers, those most in need, especially underserved fellow residents communities and the financially and many friends. disenfranchised. A significant percentage This nurturing of the Keystone budget is dedicated to care proved just indigent care. Currently, over $1,600,000 what Kathleen in services is provided annually for needed. She patients in need. Kathleen believed soon was off that welcoming individuals of all economic her morphine backgrounds delivers innumerable benefits medication, and that the interaction and exchange between patients of varying social economic levels could be deeply fulfilling for both parties as they come together as equals, facing the meaningful and incredibly emotional final stage of their lives. A professional violist, Kathleen decided to leverage her craft and love of music to express her gratitude for the tenderness she experienced at Keystone. In 2001, she organized the first ”Here’s to Life” classical concert and fundraiser. The entire evening was the result of her dedicated planning efforts. She chose the program, found the venue, designed the invitations and recruited her musician

Kathleen Carroll, founder of Keystone’s “Here’s to Life” concert series. 22 The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart colleagues to play. The accomplished for 25 years. With these monies, he musician, who had once played with the established the Welsh Chair of History Opera Company of Philadelphia, the and English Literature.1 Throughout his Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia and the life, Welsh made additional financial Orchestra of the Pennsylvania Ballet, was contributions to the university.2 not well enough to play her viola that Welsh experienced great wealth as evening. Instead, Kathleen’s music was result of the successful mercantile business heard through the efforts of her friends he shared with his brothers. This success and the joyous response of the audience. however, did not make him immune to That first “Here’s to Life” Concert the challenges others faced. In 1854, raised almost $30,000. The concert Welsh established the Merchants’ Fund continued to raise funds and further and served as its president for fifteen years. Keystone’s mission of serving anyone who The purpose of the fund was “to furnish comes to their door in need for five more relief to indigent merchants of the city of years. Though Kathleen is no longer with Philadelphia, especially such as are aged us, her colleagues continued the concert and infirm.”3 Welsh wanted to ensure that as a tribute to her and the gratitude and the needy men of his industry were looked passion she had for Keystone Hospice. after and treated with respect. In defining Kathleen’s actions are representative the fund’s rules, he determined that of the other innumerable acts of charity no report would ever be made of the and kindness performed by previous manner in which monies were distributed; residents of the John Welsh House. thus ensuring and maintaining the Whether they were building and confidentiality of the recipient. As with strengthening Philadelphia institutions, Keystone’s policy to admit patients influencing the national and world scene, regardless of their ability to pay, Welsh’s or sacrificing for their families, these Merchants’ Fund made certain that the individuals gave of themselves with the poor and elderly merchants were not left same spirit that resonates with the residents alone in their time of need. and caregivers of Keystone House today. Supporting needy merchants and the University of Pennsylvania were just a A Sincere Devotion to few of the ways Welsh demonstrated his Philadelphia & Her Citizens commitment to Philadelphia. When laity and clergy came together to establish the Philadelphians were thrilled with Hospital of the Protestant Episcopal John Welsh’s ability to turn the U.S. Church in Philadelphia (now known as Centennial Exhibition of 1876 into a huge Episcopal Hospital), John Welsh served international success highlighting not just on the planning committee as secretary. the achievements of the U.S., but also the At its inception, the planners defined core grandeur of Philadelphia. In gratitude of principles on which the hospital would his commitment, enthusiasm and success, function. Similar to Keystone’s policy of the citizens of the city presented him a granting admission based on medical need gold medal and $50,000 for his work on without regard to age, religion, race, sex, or this magnificent endeavor. Welsh accepted illness, the new hospital’s policy stated, the money, only to immediately bestow “Patients are to be received without dis- the gift to his alma mater, the University of tinction of creed, country or color.”4 The Pennsylvania where he served as a trustee

23 Embracing a Passion for Generosity

hospital, built on two city blocks, was opened on July 31, 1862. Its first patients were sick and wounded U.S. soldiers. Episcopal Hospital welcomed over five hundred soldiers as patients, without regard to creed, color, country or ability to pay. In subsequent years, additional buildings were added to the hospital property to accommodate the missionary work, schools and meetings carried out in connection with the hospital. Welsh was considered a “continuous John Welsh donated time and money to assist with the and generous friend of this institution”5 due to building of Philadelphia’s Academy of Natural Sciences. his extensive involvement in its formation, his participation on the Board of Managers and his role as a principal donor. Welsh’s civic philanthropy extended to the city’s museums. In 1866, he served on a committee of the Academy of Natural Sciences whose purpose was to build a permanent location for the Academy. As a member of the first board of trustees, Welsh solicited subscriptions from donors. These monies were used to finance the erection of a new building. Academy records show that Welsh, in addition to lending his time and financial expertise, contributed $5,000 to the building fund. More significant however, was the encouragement and influence he put upon his friends and colleagues to join him as supporters. The Academy received thousands of dollars from these individuals.6 In addition, Welsh was concerned about the natural setting of Philadelphia. Serving for six- teen years on the Fairmount Park Commission, he worked to develop and extend the city park as a welcoming respite for residents and visitors alike. He was famous for his letters printed in the Public Ledger, urging that city engineers be sent to London so they could model these park designs in Philadelphia.7 A lifelong supporter of Fairmount park, Welsh donated many acres of land bordering the Wissahickon Creek to the park. He had a famous statue of William Penn erected there Antique postcard views of Fairmount Park: Top: Chamounix Falls Bottom: East River Drive

24 The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart in 1883. The statue is located near Walnut A Call to Serve Around the Lane Bridge on what is known as “Mom” Rinker’s Rock on the eastern side of the Country and the World creek. The monument has etched in large Like Welsh, the Kelsey family was also a letters, “Toleration”, a theme that reflects strong supporter of museums and various the Quaker beliefs that Penn so strongly art programs in the early twentieth century. espoused and Welsh valued.8 Kate and Mary Kelsey were art enthusiasts Welsh purchased the statue from Herman who loved to share their passion with their Kirn, a German-born sculpture who had nieces and nephews. The children have exhibited it at the Centennial Exhibition. fond recollections of trips to the old Welsh placed the marble sculpture there Philadelphia Art Museum on Broad Street as “a memorial to William Penn’s service with their aunts. During this time, the in the cause of liberty of conscious”.9 museum was transferred into a charitable organization that shareholders’ purchases Philadelphians were incredibly grateful supported. The Kelseys sisters were for the monumental contributions Welsh shareholders of both the Academy of made to improving, enhancing and Music and the Philadelphia Art Museum. promoting the city he loved to call home. In recognition of him, the John Welsh The giving spirit of the Kelseys touched Elementary School was built in 1889 Philadelphia’s citizens in many other ways. shortly after his death. It When Kate Kelsey became began as a two-story John Welsh gave faithful service to ill with appendicitis, building with his native city and to his country and was a Dr. McClosky operated on her fourteen benefactor of his fellow man. As a memorial of his classrooms. immediately. public services and private worth, his friends have placed His quick Located this fountain and garden on the site of the Centennial Exhibition today on action saved the same of 1876 with which his name is inseparably identified. her life. It is rumored spot it John Welsh, an honored citizen whose benevolence, patriotism was in that Kate 1889, the and ability made him a leader and helper in good works. showed her school now He dignified by his virtues and adorned by the appreciation serves children grace of his character his many positions by giving the kindergarten through of honor and trust. doctor $10,000. eighth grade with thirty-three Soon after this incident, Dr. classrooms, an auditorium, recreation McCloskey donated a large sum of money room and other special facilities. The to the Catholic Church in Chestnut Hill, school is located just down the street Our Mother of Consolation. As result of from the Episcopal Hospital that Welsh this gift, the church was able to finish helped establish. the building of two aluminum steeples 10 In appreciation of his efforts with the it had begun. Centennial Exhibition and his commitment to Fairmount Park, a fountain honoring Welsh was erected in the center of the front walkway of Memorial Hall. The Above: The inscription that is etched upon the fountain remains there today and is John Welsh Fountain located at the entryway to known as the Welsh Fountain. Memorial Hall within Fairmount Park.

25 Embracing a Passion for Generosity

There were many acts of benevolence support. The proceeds of these lectures displayed by Kelsey descendants. Albert were used for the establishment of a Darling, son of Charlotte Kelsey Darling, scholarship for the Tuskegee Institute.13 was known for his mechanical skills, Lectures, afternoon teas and the hosting generosity and sea of friends. Rauhala had of numerous overnight guests at Rauhala an old carriage barn on the hill that was no are documented in family records. longer used. Albert installed bunks in the These papers include invitations, formal barn so many of his penniless, unemployed correspondence, thank you letters and friends could live there. They used the newspaper clippings. All of these illustrate maid’s lavatory and were given meals as the broad spectrum of causes Jeanette and well. He employed these men to build a her family supported. swimming pool in the back of Rauhala, this was one of the first private pools in One noted guest at Rauhala was Chestnut Hill.11 Miss H.A.C. Van der Flier, the daughter of Rev. Dr. J.G. van der Flier, chaplain Later in his life, Joseph W. Darling, to Queen Wilhelmina of The Hague, nephew of Kate and Mary, was also Netherlands. She visited the U.S. in 1916 involved with the Academy of Music. to raise $100,000 for the establishment of In 1950, the building of the Academy of a home for Belgian children orphaned by Music was in need of major repairs. At the war. An article and photo appeared the time, the Academy was a stock owning in The Philadelphia Inquirer announcing her company and the Philadelphia Orchestra visit and prominent hostess, Mrs. Albert W. Pension Fund bought all of the shares of Kelsey. Miss van der Flier’s four-month all of the stockholders. The repairs were tour began at Rauhala and extended made to the building by tax-deductible throughout the United States.14 donations of local supporters. Darling helped work out the transformation of the Jeanette’s daughter, Mary Kelsey, Academy from a corporation into a charitable devoted much of her life to the service organization, which it remains today. of others around the world. She was a converted Quaker who belonged to the The Kelseys’ and Darlings’ philanthropic 12th Street Meeting House in Philadelphia. and humanitarian efforts extended well She performed charity work for the beyond Philadelphia’s city limits. Jeanette Quakers in Peeksville, N.Y. during the Washburn Kelsey was a dedicated supporter textile workers strike. Along with her of national and international causes. She fellow Quakers, Mary provided food, leveraged her wealth and society status to shelter, medicine and clothing to the assist various organizations. Kelsey family families of the striking workers. papers include numerous thank you letters sent to Jeannette acknowledging her During the First World War, Mary and financial support, personal endorsement her sister Charlotte (Lottie) were involved and sponsorship of several causes.12 in the relief efforts sponsored by then Commerce Secretary Herbert Hoover to Examples of this generosity are many. aide refugees in Belgium and Holland. Together with her daughter Charlotte, Their work included assisting French Jeanette helped sponsor a series of lectures refugees return to their homeland. Mary is on education by Professor C. Hanford credited with supervising the transport of a Henderson, Ph. D. They personally trainload of shell shocked French civilians invited attendees and provided financial into Spain to recuperate.15

26 The Living Legacy of a Home With Heart

Mary’s charity work took her from service was held in New York City. The Western Europe into Russia. During the minister addressed her nieces and nephews Soviet Revolution in 1918-1919, terrible explaining that a sum of money had been suffering and famine occurred. As the left to them. Mary had asked that it be Soviets trusted no other governments used in a feast of Thanksgiving for her life or organizations but the Quakers, they and her future in Heaven. Following her allowed them to come and help with wishes, all the nieces and nephews shared their sick and starving. Mary volunteered a meal and drinks at the 7th Regiment to go to Russia and work with the needy Armory on Park Avenue; celebrating the there. She was profoundly moved by her wonderful woman they called Aunt Mary. experience in Russia, never forgetting When times were tough, the family what she witnessed there. banded together to support each other. Twenty years later, during World War II, Jeanette and Albert’s daughter-in-law the Quakers were once again invited back Barbara died of the flu influenza in 1917. to Russia to assist refugees and those Carl was left a widower, devastated with injured by the Nazis. Mary volunteered four kids to raise. His mother Jeanette to return to serve the people of Russia. and sisters, Mary and Kate, established This proved the most significant decision a rotation schedule in which they stayed of her life. Her experience in Russia had with him to help raise his children. When a huge impact on her psyche. She was it was Charlotte’s turn, she moved her own deeply affected by the horrific suffering family of four children from Washington, and conditions of the Soviet people. into Carl’s home in Short Hills, New Jersey The experience left her shattered both where they lived for a year until Charlotte emotionally and physically. She returned moved her family back to Rauhala. This to the States and died shortly after.16 time, the focus was on her siblings, Kate and Mary. Charlotte responded to their A Dedication to Family call. They required their sister’s assistance Although John Welsh and the extended running the household since their mother Kelsey family dedicated much of them- Jeanette was now in her late seventies.17 selves to their community, their utmost example of support and sacrifice was to A Generosity of Spirit their families. Like the families and loved Caring for family members and making ones of Keystone House residents, they meaningful sacrifices for their loved ones stood beside their siblings and parents is witnessed every day at Keystone House. giving selflessly of themselves during Families often travel long distances, moments of their greatest happiness and rearrange work and personal schedules, deepest pain. forgo sleep, and suspend the activities of At times, this generosity was exhibited their lives to be with loved ones at through financial support. Joseph W. Keystone House. The warm and inviting Darling recalls that his grandmother atmosphere of Keystone House makes Jeanette and Aunt Mary helped pay for his these sacrifices less burdensome on Harvard education. This was a gesture for families. Resident family members are which Darling was most appreciative. welcome to stay as guests at Keystone When Mary died after her challenging House and encouraged to make themselves work in the Soviet Union, a memorial at home.

27 Embracing a Passion for Generosity

In 1997, and her harp travel room-to-room every hundreds of week, providing comfort, relaxation and community emotional support to all who hear her music. volunteers Reverend Joseph Craddock and Sister came together Mary Early, members of the Germantown to clean the Church of the Brethren, serve Keystone house and Hospice by visiting residents and providing property in spiritual support and comfort. These preparation for two dedicated volunteers bring comfort opening Keystone through music, song, sacred scripture and House. Architects, the spoken word. Together they were interior designers, corporations and instrumental in helping to establish the individuals sponsored the design and deco- Faith in Action program at Keystone ration of resident rooms and living areas. Hospice and launched its Property Care Landscape architects and horticulturalists Ministry, which provided assistance with worked to revive the grounds and gardens. yard work and house cleaning. When Jim Barrett’s wife Dorothy lived Keystone employees display a generosity at Keystone House from 2001 to 2003, of spirit for Keystone patients and families Jim spent five to six days a week there, above and beyond their day-to-day job balancing visits with his job as a manage- responsibilities. At Thanksgiving and ment consultant. He became a regular fix- Christmas, employees host holiday food ture with staff, families and other residents. and gift drives. Together with volunteers, Jim sponsored the decoration of a room at they donate, collect, and prepare food Keystone House. When the Kathleen boxes, turkeys, and gifts for hospice Carroll’s “Here’s to Life” Concert needed a patient families and needy families in planning committee, he eagerly volun- the community. teered to help with this event. Kathleen was, at one time, a roommate of his wife’s. Countless acts of kindness abound at Keystone House, rooted in a long tradition Myriad volunteers continue to share that began with John Welsh. Every day, their talents and skills with a generosity acts of selfless service occur inside and of spirit echoing that of the house’s earlier outside the walls of Keystone House, residents. Marilyn Lemke contributes to connecting the past works of charity to the warm environment of Keystone by the present. sharing her musical talents. An accredited hospital-certified Bedside Harpist, Marilyn Generous community volunteers support Keystone House in many ways. Top: Volunteer Shirley Rowe visits the bedside of a Keystone House resident. Left: Executive Director Gail Inderwies and CNA Monique Mitchell accept donated afghans from volunteers with the Montgomery County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. Below: West Oak Lane Charter School's eighth grade class and School Director Dr. Debbera Peoples-Lee present funds raised at their school to Keystone Hospice Vice President David Traupman.

28

Chapter Four A House of Many Names, A Home to All

Early records show that the original house homes of the 19th century and those of the on where Keystone House stands today acclaimed Philadelphia school of the early was a “Father, Son & Holy Spirit” house — 20th century designed by noted architects so named because it consisted of three Frank Furness and William Eyre.3 separate floors layered atop one another. The unique design of the home The core house was a typical farmhouse encapsulating the transition between two of the eighteenth century where cattle distinct design styles is one of the reasons and other animals stayed on the first floor the house is listed on the National Register overnight and the family lived on the of Historic Places. As described on the second and third floors. A ladder was application for this certification, “(It) is drawn up at nighttime so thieves and unusual because it seems a conscious 1 Indians could not get to the family. attempt to avoid the question of style. The John Welsh House: Roofs are mainly gabled, but the northeast wing is of a shallow pitch, with a shallow A Strong Foundation wall gable suggesting the Italianate styles. A century later, in 1867, a house was The principal zones where the style was constructed on the property for William typically established — the roofline, the Platt to serve as a summer home. Most entrance porch, and the windows are in likely, James C. Sidney (an English born fact, curiously devoid of detail, relying on and trained architect) was the designer cut stone. especially the voussoirs around since the style of the home — carefully the windows and doors, for the principal cut stone, simplified detail and style — aesthetic effect. The result is a building matches that of a cluster of contemporary that anticipated the suburban houses stone homes he designed on nearby that were praised as Philadelphia’s chief Summit Avenue. Although no records architectural attainment in the early specifically identify this, it is understood twentieth century. It conveys the character that Clayton Platt most likely built the and simplicity of the life style of the home for his brother William.2 It was Philadelphia gentry…and the distinctive purchased shortly afterwards by John Welsh. characteristics of the Philadelphia country houses in transition from 18th century Since the home was designed as a summer sources to the early twentieth century residence, it was constructed with an type.”4 emphasis on ventilation and views rather than for high style ostentation. It is most However, the house’s placement on appreciated for its early Gothic/Italianate the Register was primarily due to it character and carefully crafted stone exterior. being the home of influential leader and The building serves as an example of philanthropist John Welsh. the transition between the great country

Top: A view of Rauhala, c. 1905, upon entering the driveway. Note the magnolia tree to left that still graces the property. (Kelsey Family Collection, Chestnut Hill Historical Society) Bottom: The front porch and facade of the renovated Keystone House shines in the sun with new copper and brightly painted windows. 30 The Living Legacy Of A Home With Heart

Rauhala: Transitioning stream on the property where Jeanette to a True Victorian Home liked to entertain guests. The property encompassed approximately Shortly after the death of John Welsh, Major eight acres. Five of these were used for General Caldwaller Colden Washburn cows and chickens grazing and the other purchased the house and property from three were at the front of the house. The Nicholas Biddle as a gift for his daughter Kelsey estate included two greenhouses, a Jeanette and new son-in-law, Albert Warren swimming pool, tennis courts and beautiful Kelsey because he was drawn to the bucolic floral gardens. In the larger greenhouse Victorian home and property that included were huge grape vines of Black Hamburg a spring and a creek. The couple renamed grapes that the Kelsey grandchildren the property “Rauhala”, (“peaceful place”) enjoyed picking while they were in season. and lived there from 1886 to the 1930s with The other greenhouse held exotic and cut their nine children and many grandchildren. flowers for the house. During the First The grounds required as much World War, there was a shortage of food maintenance as the 25-room home. The at Rauhala. The land was plowed and Kelsey garden staff included four potatoes were planted in what was referred gardeners whose work involved tending to as the War Garden. Tomatoes, string the lawn, planting and harvesting the beans, and cauliflower were grown in the vegetables and taking care of the flowers. vegetable garden, and eggs were collected On the property was a stone farmhouse from the hens in the large henhouse. with three stories where George Moore, Distinctive trees populated the the head farmer gardener lived. The first grounds of Rauhala. These included a story had a staircase on one side going up large magnolia, a copper beech and a to the living quarters. On the other side grove of apple trees. Many family letters were the stalls for the cows that he kept reference the gardens and comment on inside overnight to keep them from the status of the roses, lilacs and trees what Kelsey grandchild Joseph W. Darling throughout the property. In a letter to called “marauding miscreants.”5 On the Jeanette on July 25, 1909, Albert writes edge was a large outhouse with three holes, to his wife, “The elms are shedding their yellow two for grown ups and one for the children. As Joseph explains, “It contained three corncobs for obvious purposes.”6 A large barnyard was home to the chicken coop for several hundred chickens. Beyond the barnyard, on the hillside cast iron fences separated the lawn from the pasture that extended to a brook. This ensured the cows stayed on one side of the fence. The spring served many purposes for the Kelsey family and was surrounded by a three-foot high wall of Germantown granite. Its bank was full of a variety of greenery that was sometimes included in A diagram of the first the salads served to the Kelsey family by floor showing original their Irish cooks. A small bridge covered a 1867 rooms and 1892 “Rauhala” additions.

31 A House of Many Names, A Home to All leaves and the ground was thickly sown with apartments as a young boy in the late them yesterday. We rejoiced in two days of rain 1930s recalls many happy times climbing the past week; just gently showering continuously the tree. He believes his initials, which and soaking the thirsty earth, but it did he carved in the tree as an eager not come in time to save the apple ten-year old, remain visible in and peach crops; three fourths of the old tree trunk today.10 these two fruits are withered As the trees grew, the and have already dropped interior of Rauhala off the trees, they say and underwent its own Mr Derr tells me the early expansion. In 1892, potatoes are also done for the Kelsey family but has hopes for the hired Architect Louis later one.”7 C. Hickman, to design Springtime was a northwest wing. special to the Kelseys He was careful to as they, like residents create an addition that before and after them, respected the design of enjoyed witnessing the the original. The National blossoming of the apple and Register of Historic Places’ magnolia application describes this, “He trees as well as the hundreds The large magnolia still puts on adhered to the conventions of of daffodils and other flowers a magnificat display each spring its original design — using on the property. Albert Sr., in a to the delight of hospice residents. squared Wissahickon schist, letter to Jeanette in April of 1917 carefully laid to follow the writes, “Our magnolia at its best and original coursing — it enhances rather blossoms beginning to fall. Trees beyond the than conflicts with the house.”11 brook just commencing to come into leaf. One of the home’s interior features fondly Not one of my English Daisies in right yet, remembered by Kelsey family members is nor have I seen violets. Ground green however the huge fireplace in the dining room. and plenty of dandelions.”8 There is a large arch over the fireplace and The stately and elegant magnolia tree at the top of the arch sat a ceramic Buddha. was especially adored by the Kelsey family Joseph W. Darling recalls that the Buddha’s and served as a source of pride for them. head and one of its hands were often in Albert Sr. writes to Jeanette in April of 1918 motion, as though watching Joseph and saying, “The weather with us here does not settle; his cousins eat their Sunday breakfast of and I fear no better with you. However it has scrambled eggs, fried tomatoes and English kept our Magnolia longer than usual, and its toast. Other rooms located on the first floor blossoms are of very deep pink this season; seen of Rauhala during the Kelseys residence from the house it is as nice as ever, but from the included a pantry just off the dining room, road it is not so symmetrical as the Packards’ and a schoolroom located off the corridor, (neighbors); which is the adoration of all who opposite the music room.12 pass this way.”9 The upper floors of Rauhala contained Into the twentieth century and still family bedrooms, some with their own today, the magnolia tree holds special bathroom and a small metal balcony or memories for the residents of the home. porch. The top floor of the home was John M. Dallam, who lived in one of the reserved for the maids who all shared one

32 The Living Legacy Of A Home With Heart bathroom. As she grew apartment in 1939. older, Jeanette Kelsey Dallam remembers resided in the wing suite Darling’s regular facing north with a large practice of turning off living room, bedroom, the entire building’s bathroom, fireplace, and electricity and heat a porch that was covered between 9:30 p.m. and with wisteria. 5:30 a.m. and charging In 1927, the Kelseys the children ten cents each to use the moved to “La Maisonette”, 16 often called “New swimming pool. Rauhala”. This 32- Though few tenants room stone home was resided at Old Rauhala designed by Albert Jr. in the early 1940s, and built by Italian keeping Rauhala in masons using local the family was very quarried granite for important to the the walls. It is located Kelseys. Many of on the property just a them made great stone’s throw away from sacrifices to achieve Rauhala.13 New Rauhala this. During the was later sold to the Second World War, Institutes for the Kate lived in what Achievement of Human her niece Ann Beal Potential. The original described as “genteel Rauhala, now referred poverty”17, so she could to as “Old Rauhala”, dedicate her resources was turned into a warren to maintain the house. of apartments by Albert Ann recalls that Kate Darling who paid the used a stove to heat operation expenses the house since heating and capital costs to add it was so expensive electricity and oil heat during wartime. to the building. Despite After the conclusion of the war, Kelsey his improvements, Old Rauhala remained grandson, Joseph W. Darling and his wife 14 vacant at various intervals over the years. Helene returned to Philadelphia following The second floor of Rauhala housed two his Army service in Germany. Old Rauhala apartments, two efficiency apartments were was beginning to show signs of its vacancy located on the third floor and the ground and deterioration. The Darlings decided to floor had three apartments. The caretaker repair and upgrade the apartments. Since lived in the basement, the current Joseph was working at the time in 15 Keystone House kitchen. Washington D.C. during the week Helene, Albert Darling, who was known for his (known affectionately to family members as eccentric behavior, was John Dallam’s “Mother D”), supervised most of the landlord when the Dallam family rented an renovations, using William Goettles as

Top: East view of Rauhala, c.1905, showing the glass-enclosed porch at far left. Center: Rose trellises and gardens surround the west side of Rauhala, c. 1905. (Kelsey Family Collection, Chestnut Hill Historical Society) Bottom: Stepping out onto a bedroom balcony, the window and roofing details of a restored Keystone House are visible. 33 A House of Many Names, A Home to All

the primary contractor for the project.18 preserving the character of the property These upgrades included adding walls, enhances its historic legacy and ensures kitchens and bathrooms. It was amidst that the house will be in good condition great conflict that Joseph Darling’s son throughout the next century. Albert decided not to purchase the A new Vermont gray slate and property. His former wife Ann Beal recalls, hammered copper flat insulated roof “Mother D understood that we didn’t want reduces energy use, ensures longevity, to be saddled with the house. She was durability, fire protection and resistance very understanding, though the Colonel to rot and insect damage. (Joseph Darling Sr.) thought we were making a grave mistake.”19 Old Rauhala The repair and replacement of wood was sold to Jay Cooke , who continued to soffits and the installation of new copper rent the apartments to local families. gutters and drain spouts ensures that water flows away from the house, ending water Like the Kelsey family, the residents damage and seepage behind the masonry. of the apartments enjoyed gardens. John The copper downspouts, flashing and Dallam recalls that in 1939, an herb garden gutters are in keeping with the historic was located at the end of the porch aesthetic of the building. in a glass-enclosed room with a ping-pong table. Bill Madeira, All new windows have who lived there with his family beautiful wood interiors with in the 1960s remembers how maintenance-free exteriors. much his mother enjoyed the Stained glass has been gardens, “Mother was a big restored and strengthened gardener and we had moved for greater energy efficiency. there just after they widened Reconstructed shutters and Stenton Avenue. She had an balustrades are in keeping with herb and flower garden that she the house’s original appearance just loved to maintain.”20 and add charm and warmth to Sun streams into one of the stone and window facades. Keystone House’s bedrooms. Keystone House: Finally, because Keystone Restoring a Home House is located in a part of Montgomery County that often has Filled with Light and Love power failures, a full capacity, biodiesel In addition to ensuring a comfortable and emergency power generator within an safe home for its residents, Keystone aesthetically sensitive landscaped enclosure Hospice is committed to maintaining the has been installed that allows the hospice integrity of its historic home, as illustrated to continue operations without interruption by its 2006-2007 renovation project. The for up to ten days. house's architectural details, spacious rooms and gardens make it ideally suited for its Throughout the centuries, this home current role as a residential hospice and as and its surrounding property have served the heart of Keystone Hospice’s operations many generations, its purpose and function throughout greater Philadelphia. The renova- ever changing as the lives of its residents tions ensure an appealing and beautiful underwent great transitions. Today, as a atmosphere for residents to live out their residential hospice, it serves as the vessel final days. For neighbors and the community, through which the greatest transition of all is made — from life to death.

34 Endnotes

18Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 42. Endnotes 19Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 41. 20Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 43. Chapter One: Family, the Heart of a Home 21Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 10. 22 1James Barrett. Telephone interview given by Paula M. Riley. 16 April 2007. Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Accession # 2002.531.1 Box 1 23 2Barrett. 16 April 2007. Sandra L. Tatman. “Kelsey, Albert (1870-1950).” American Architects 3Joan Bradley. Personal interview given by Paula M. Riley. 3 May 2007. and Buildings Database. 24 Chestnut Hill. (Philadelphia: P.W.Ziegler & Co., 1889) 439. “Kelsey on Municipal Art.” Architectural Review I (July 1904):185- 5Albert Kelsey, Letter to Jeanette Kelsey. Chestnut Hill Historical 188. 26 8Kate Kelsey and Mary Kelsey. Scarlatina Times. 7. Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 34. 27 9Joseph Warren McNab Darling. Personal interview by Vena Helene Ann Beal, 27 March 2007. 28 McNab Darling. 9 April 2000. 38. John Dallam. Personal interview given by Rosemary Twomey. 10Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 15. 28 June 2007. 29 11Ann Beal. Personal interview by Paula M. Riley. 27 March 2007. Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 5. 30 12Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 32 Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 5. 31 13Paula M. Riley, “An angel to those near death – still volunteering at Carl Kelsey, and I. Sheldon Tilney Automobile, Smithsonian 89 in her former residence”, Chestnut Hill Local, June 15, 2006. Automobile Collection, American on the Move Collection. 14Joe Barron, “Volunteer finds hospice to be like home,” Catalog#308,029; Accession #69,850. 32 15Paula M. Riley, 15 June, 2006 Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 27. 33 16Paula M. Riley, 15 June, 2006 Joseph Warren Darling. Personal interview by Elizabeth B. Barringer. 17Bill Madeira. Telephone interview by Paula M. Riley. 24 April 2007. “Recollections of WWII: An Interview with Colonel Joseph Warren 18Joseph Warren McNab Darling. Personal interview by Vena Helene Darling.” 30 December 1998. 13. 34 McNab Darling. 9 April 2000. 21 Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 3. 35 19Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Accession # 2002.531.1 Box 1. Joseph Warren Darling. Personal interview by Elizabeth B. Barringer. 15. 20Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Accession # 2002.531.1 Box 4 21Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Accession # 2002.531.1 Box 4 Chapter Three: Embracing a Passion for Generosity 22 Kate Kelsey and Mary Kelsey. Scarlatina Times. 4. 1George E. Thomas, Ph.D. 1. 23 Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 21. 2George E. Thomas, Ph.D. 1 24 Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Accession # 2002.531.1 Box 1, Misc 3John Thomas Scharf and Thompson Westcott. 1477. 25 Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Accession # 2002.531.1 Box 1, Misc 4John Thomas Scharf and Thompson Westcott. 1677. 26 Ann Beal. 27 March 2007. 5John Thomas Scharf and Thompson Westcott. 1677. 27 Ann Beal. 27 March 2007. 6John Thomas Scharf and Thompson Westcott. 1203. 7George E. Thomas, Ph.D. 2. Chapter Two: A Legacy of Influential Leaders 8Charles W. Hart, “William Penn statue here a legacy of Mt. Airy man,” 1Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 51. Chestnut Hill Local, 1 September 1994. 23. 2“Proclamation 5284 — Honorary United States Citizenship for 9Charles W. Hart, 1 September, 1994. William and Hannah Penn” 28 November, 1984. Ronald Reagan 10Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 17. Presidential Library. 12Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Accession # 2002.531.1 Box 1. 3Conlon, Emily L. “Two women who led in colonial days.” 13Charlotte Kelsey. Letter. 23 September 1899. Chestnut Hill Friends Journal. 15 October 1982. 28. Historical Society, Accession # 2002.531.1 Box 1. 4“Proclamation 5284 — Honorary United States Citizenship for 14“Seeks $100,000 For Belgian Orphans”. Philadelphia Inquirer. 1916. William and Hannah Penn” 28 November, 1984. Ronald Reagan 15Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 33. Presidential Library. 16Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 34. 5Russell Weigley. Philadelphia: A 300 Year History (The Barra 17Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 30. Foundation. USA. 1982.) 428. 6 George E. Thomas, Ph.D. Department of Interior: National Park Chapter Four: House of Many Names, A Home to All Service. Application for National Register of Historic Places: John 1 Welsh House. September 1989. 2. Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 52. 2 7J.S. Ingram. Centennial Exposition Described and Illustrated: Being a Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 53. 3 Concise and Graphic Description of the Grand Enterprise. George E. Thomas, Ph.D. 2. 4 (Philadelphia, P.A.: Hubbard Bros., 1876). 87. Samuel F. Hotchkin, 330. 5 8Herman LeRoy Collins and Wilfred Jordon. Philadelphia, a Story of Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 6. 6 Progress. (New York, N.Y.: Lewis Historical Company. 1941). 247. Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 6. 7 9J.S Ingram, 88. Albert Kelsey, Letter to Jeanette Kelsey. Chestnut Hill Historical 10J.S Ingram, 766. Society, Accession # 2003.53.1 Box 1. 25 July 1909. 8 11Esther Klein. Fairmount Park: A History & A Guidebook. Albert Kelsey, Letter to Jeanette Kelsey. Chestnut Hill Historical (Bryn Mawr, P.A.:Harcum Junior College Press, 1974) 22. Society, Accession # 2003.53.1 Box 1. 27 April 1917. 9 12George E. Thomas, Ph.D. 2. Albert Kelsey, Letter to Jeanette Kelsey. Chestnut Hill Historical 13John Thomas Scharf and Thompson Westcott. History of Society, Accession # 2003.53.1 Box 1. 22 April 1918. 10 Philadelphia, 1609-1884. (Phila., P.A.:L.H & Co.,1884) 843-845. John Dallam. 28 June 2007. 11 14“The Eagle & Brooklyn, Vol 1.” Brooklyn Public Library-Brooklyn George E. Thomas, Ph.D. 11. 12 Collection, NY, 22 February 1864, Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 10. 14 15Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 44. Joseph Warren McNab Darling. 50. 15 16“Biographical Directory of the United States Congress,” United John Dallam. 28 June 2007. 16 States Congress, Washington, DC. Ann Beal. 27 March 2007. 18 17Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Accession # 2006.83.1 Ann Beal. 27 March 2007. 19Ann Beal. 27 March 2007. 20Bill Madeira. 24 April 2007. 35 Bibliography Bibliography

Barron, Joe. “Volunteer finds hospice to be like home.” Springfield Sun. 26 April 2007. Barrett, James. Telephone interview given by Paula M. Riley. 16 April 2007. Beal, Ann. Personal interview by Paula M. Riley. 27 March 2007. Brownlee, David. Building the City Beautiful: The Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Philadelphia, P.A. : Philadelphia Museum of Art, 1989. Brownlee, David. “Still Building the City Beautiful.” Center City District of Philadelphia. Philadelphia, P.A. 22 February 2007. Bradley, Joan. Personal interview given by Paula M. Riley. 3 May 2007. Collins, Herman LeRoy and Wilfred Jordon. Philadelphia, a Story of Progress. New York, N.Y.: Lewis Historical Company. 1941. Conlon, Emily L. “Two women who led in colonial days.” Friends Journal. 15 October 1982. 27:30. Springfield Historical Society. Accession #: Penn, William & Hannah. Dallam, John M. Personal interview given by Rosemary Twomey. 28 June 2007. Darling, Joseph Warren McNab. Personal interview by Vena Helene McNab Darling. “The Stories and Memories of his Life”. Darling, Joseph Warren. Personal interview by Elizabeth B. Barringer. “Recollections of WWII: An Interview with Colonel Joseph Warren Darling.” 30 December 1998. Hotchkin, Samuel F. Ancient and Modern Germantown, Mt. Airy and Chestnut Hill. Philadelphia, P.A.: P.W.Ziegler & Co., 1889. Ingram, J.S. Centennial Exposition Described and Illustrated: Being a Concise and Graphic Description of the Grand Enterprise. Philadelphia, P.A.: Hubbard Bros., 1876. Kelsey, Albert. Letters to Jeanette Kelsey. Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Accession # 2003.53.1 Box 1. 25 July 1909, 27 April 1917 & 22 April 1918. Kelsey, Carl and I. Sheldon Tilney Automobile, Smithsonian Automobile Collection, American on the Move Collection. Catalog#308,029; Accession #69,850. Kelsey, Kate and Mary Kelsey. The Scarlatina Times. Philadelphia, P.A.: Chestnut Hill Historical Society. Accession # 2002.531.1 Box 4. Kelsey Family Collection. Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Accession # 2002.531.1., #1970.69 & #1995.281. “Kelsey on Municipal Art.” Architectural Review I (July 1904):185-188. Klein, Esther. Fairmount Park: A History & A Guidebook. Bryn Mawr, P.A.:Harcum Junior College Press, 1974. Madeira, Bill. Telephone interview given by Paula M. Riley. 24 April 2007. McCabe, James D. The Illustrated History of the Centennial Exhibition. The National Publishing Company. Philadelphia, P.A.. 1975. “Proclamation 5284 — Honorary United States Citizenship for William and Hannah Penn” 28 November, 1984. Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Riley, Paula M. “An angel to those near death – still volunteering at 89 in her former residence.” Chestnut Hill Local, June 15, 2006. Scharf, John Thomas and Thompson Westcott. History of Philadelphia, 1609-1884. Philadelphia, P.A.:L.H & Co.,1884. Tatman, Sandra, L. “Kelsey, Albert (1870-1950).” American Architects and Buildings Database. “The Eagle & Brooklyn, Vol 1.” Brooklyn Public Library-Brooklyn Collection, N.Y., 22 February 1864. Thomas, George E., Ph.D. U.S. Department of Interior: National Park Service. Application for National Register of Historic Places: John Welsh House. September, 1989. Vitez, Michael. “Holding her own against cancer, violist crafts a musical thank-you.” The Philadelphia Inquirer, 15 November 2001. Weigley, Russell. Philadelphia: A 300 Year History. U.S.A.: The Barra Foundation. 1982.

36 The precious memories of family bonds and unconditional love are engraved on the hearts of those who have called 8765 Stenton Avenue home.

This cornerstone, originally inset into the 1892 expanded wing of “Old Rauhala”, was moved to “La Maisonette” (or “New Rauhala”) in commemoration of its completion in 1927 and remains there today.

8765 Stenton Avenue, Wyndmoor, PA 19038 Tel (215) 836-2440 www.keystonecare.com

MEMBER: JEWISH FAMILY &CHILDREN’S SERVICES JEWISH HOSPICE NETWORK OF PHILADELPHIA

Keystone Hospice, founded in 1995, is a 501(c) (3) organization providing specialized care to individuals living with a terminal illness and support for their loved ones throughout the greater Philadelphia region — with special outreach to the medically underserved and financially disenfranchised. Keystone House is a 19-bed restored Victorian home that provides comprehensive hospice services for those whose care cannot be managed at home.