Winter-Spring 2014 Newsletter of the Bucks County Historical Society Vol

Home , Bryan Scott, National History Day

Winter-Spring 2014 Newsletter of the Bucks County Historical Society Vol. 28 Number 1 Fonthill Castle by: Ruth C. Taylor Ruth C. Taylor by: Castle Fonthill

IN THIS ISSUE: • HONORING OUR SUPPORTERS • RECENT ACQUISITIONS • UPCOMING EVENTS • MERCER MUSEUM CENTENNIAL • REDISCOVERIES AT FONTHILL • AND MORE!

Rutherfords Photography Rutherfords Rutherfords Photography Rutherfords Cocktails at the Castle: Success with a Twist he Mercer Museum hosted its 2nd out the night while exploring the Museum on the Mercer Robotics Camp, which al- TAnnual Cocktails at the Castle on Oc- and had a great time.” The Live Auction lows students to directly engage in tober 11th and the event was exciting, en- included extraordinary items such as a “STEM” disciplines of science, technol- ergizing and a successful celebration of one-of-a-kind Golden Keshi Necklace by ogy, engineering and mathematics. The our cultural richness! More than 300 at- jewelry designer Laura Rutkowski of program needs include hardware and tendees enjoyed the savory specialties pro- Cowgirl Chile Co. Jewelry, a handcrafted, software upgrades and enhancements, vided by our area’s culinary experts and original Mercer Museum table designed and our guests generously donated over the musical entertainment as they partici- by William Schutt, Christopher Willet’s $10,000 toward this effort. pated in the Live and Silent Auctions, Peaceable Kingdom framed artwork, an The event raised more than $100,000 for which offered unique experiences, get- around the world photo journey with the Mercer Museum’s exhibitions, educa- aways, jewelry, art and handcrafted items. renowned National Geographic photogra- tion, preservation and community services. New to the event was the BidPal auto- pher, Bob Krist, a private dinner and blue- We are extremely grateful to the spon- mated silent auction bidding technology. grass concert and exciting trips to Cape sors, culinary specialists and generous “It was so engaging to bid on items using May, New Jersey, Grand Bahama Island supporters listed on p.3. Their participa- my smartphone,” stated Grace Deon, and Southold, New York. tion and generosity made this major fund Event Co-Chair. “I participated through- The evening’s Mission Appeal focused raising event a very special night. ■

Friends on a Mission he Friends of the Bucks County “With more than 150 members, their THistorical Society (BCHS) has been fundraising efforts have included diverse an integral part of our organization since activities such as Tavern Nights, bus tours, the group’s founding in May of 1967. quarterly educational lectures, and raffles,” Formerly known as the ‘Women’s noted Eileen Shapiro, Special Events Coor- Committee,’ this energetic and highly dinator and the group’s staff liaison. “The dedicated volunteer corps has played a funds generated by the Friends support im- major role in all aspects of the Mercer portant projects that further our education, Museum and Library & Fonthill Castle. preservation and community initiatives,” “We greatly value the work and mission of The Friends of BCHS in front of the PA State added Shapiro. Recognizing the importance BCHS and see our role in advancing the Capitol building in Harrisburg. of the Mercer Museum’s recent expansion programs, projects and outreach services has raised funds to support Fonthill’s Old- project and new galleries for exhibitions, the as a benefit for our community’s quality Fashioned fourth of July, archival supplies Friends launched a campaign to secure of life,” stated Nancy Bergere, a former for the Mercer Library, reproduction arti- personal pledges and commitments for the Friends of BCHS president. facts for our quality educational programs, a new wing. The gardens of the Museum’s For 47 years, this devoted Friends group Civil War encampment, and History Day. …continued on page 11 2 Tom Modzelewski enjoys the

BidPal technology. Photography Choice Wright Photo:

Wright Choice Wright Mercer Robotics Students present to Gala guests. Sponsors Melissa and Phil Eiseman.

Rutherfords Photography Rutherfords SPONSORS Pinnacle Sponsor E.C. Bentz Electrical Contractor, Owow Cow Creamery, Ottsville Entertainment Lisa Kristin Soren Wells Fargo Advisors Inc. Park Avenue Pastries, Chalfont Jazz it Upright with Colin Weber, Tom Thomas Eiseman Construction, Inc. Penn Taproom/PA Soup and Leo Galbraith-Paul, and Kevin Rochelle Thompson Tower Sponsors Lin Hodgdon and Tom Seafood, Doylestown Blanke John Walp A to Z Party Rental Modzelewski Pigs and Gigs, Lansdale Fast Lane Larry Woodson Worth & Company, Inc. Susan E. Kane Plumsteadville Inn, Where’s Pete? dance band Marie Woodson Keenan Motor Group, Keenan Plumsteadville Spire Sponsors Motors & Keenan Honda Sand Castle Winery, Erwinna Gala Committee Members Other generous support Advent Security Kreischer Miller Sweet Sisters Cupcake co chairs: provided by Bazella Group Marshall Financial Group, Inc. Boutique, Doylestown Maureen B. and Mark E. Carlton Barrie Audio Video The Cameron Companies, LLC State Senator Charles McIlhinney The Lucky Cupcake Company, Grace M. and Vincent J. Deon Bucks County Library Center Curtin & Heefner LLP RMG Insurance Pipersville Bucks County Women’s Journal Eastburn & Gray, P.C. Rockwood Wealth Management The Waterwheel Restaurant, Heather Bernhardt Central Bucks High School East First Savings Voith & Mactavish Architects, LLP Doylestown Laura Biersmith Key Club Fulton Bank Marlene J. Burns Central Bucks High School West KBZ Communications, Inc. Restaurants/Caterers Decorators Doris Hart Carr Key Club National Penn Ann’s Cake Pan, Horsham Doylestown Flowers & Gifts Heather A. Cevasco Chris Deon Beverage Thompson BMW Bowman’s Tavern, New Hope Hortulus Farm Garden & Melissa Charry Eagles Peak Spring Water Thompson Networks Bradley Bunch Bakery, Nursery Jean Clark Frater’s Electric Tullyvision, Inc. Warrington Jan Hench, McCoole’s at the His- Melissa B. Eiseman Green Mountain Coffee Caleb’s American Kitchen, toric Red Lion Inn Suzy Feilmeier Gross Gourmet Foods Finial Sponsors Lahaska Mo Better Entertainment Francis D. Furgiuele Museum Apprentice Program Americor Press Chaddsford Winery, Lahaska Mom’s Flower Shoppe Linda B. Hodgdon Students Ameriprise Financial Chambers 19, Doylestown Spring Valley Nurseries Melani Kodikian Natech Solutions LLC Laura and Michael Biersmith Chive Cafe, Lahaska Jane C. Mitchell Don Orcutt Doris Hart Carr, in memory of Goodnoe’s Dairy Farm, Newtown Lisa Pretecrum Origlio Distributors George M. Carr III Joseph Ambler Inn, Horsham Michael B. Raphael Precious Pets Magazine Comcast McCoole’s at the Historic Red Maxine Romano Rutherford’s Camera Shop Susan E. Dardes and David L. Lion Inn, Quakertown William R. Schutt Starbucks Franke Memorable Affairs, Warminster Eileen Shapiro Wright Choice Photography Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle…Unique Sites for Your Major Event, Business Meeting, and/or Special Gathering

he Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle offer unique and Tculturally rich venues for entertaining in our region. From an intimate party in the Elkins Gallery with its extraordinary art collection, to a special celebration in the Terrace Pavilion, or a business meeting in the Great Hall, your guests will appreciate the unforget- table experiences these National Historic Landmarks offer. With ex- clusive caterer Memorable Affairs planning your culinary selections, /[email protected]. For events at Fonthill your event will surely be one to remember. To learn more about Castle, please contact Edward Reidell, Site Administrator entertaining at the Mercer Museum, please contact Eileen at 215-348-9461/[email protected] or contact Shapiro, Special Events Coordinator at 215-345-0210 ext. 132 Memorable Affairs at 215-674-1047. ■ 3 A Planned Gift Rooted in the Past

he Plus Ultra Society Kathy Morrison for their Bern, North Carolina, where my wife and I are Twas established in extraordinary expression active members of the local Historical Society. 1998 to acknowledge of devotion and support. The town is much like Doylestown—founded in individuals who plan I grew up in Doylestown, 1710 and a county seat, but it is also the home for the future of the very near the Museum, of Tryon Palace and the first capital of North Mercer Museum and passing it every day as I Carolina. The town and its residents have a Library & Fonthill walked home from the old great reverence for their heritage, which Castle by including the Borough School. My father, has made me appreciate even more what Bucks County Historical Dr. James D. Morrison, a Doylestown has in Dr. Mercer’s legacy. We only Society (BCHS) in their dentist in Doylestown from hope that our future gift will serve to honor both estate plans. “Plus Ultra,” 1946 to 1983, and I spent men, and help to continue the exciting growth Latin meaning “more Jim & Kathy Morrison many afternoons in the the Museum has seen since I left. beyond,” became Henry Museum, and often in the Jim & Kathy Morrison Mercer’s own motto during his lifetime. Library seeking elusive genealogy links in New Bern, NC Plus Ultra Society members provide vital the days before Ancestry.com. When we To inform us of a planned gift or support to ensure future generations recently reviewed our estate plan, my wife to learn more about planned giving experience the wonder of Mercer’s legacy. and I wanted to recognize the importance of opportunities, please contact Laura This wonderful testimonial inspires both Doylestown and the Museum to my father Biersmith, Vice President of Development our work, our vision and commitment, and with a bequest. at 215-345-0210 ext. 129/ lbiersmith we are truly grateful to Jim and I moved away in 1969, and now live in New @mercermuseum.org. ■

Honoring our Supporters

n November 14th, we hosted our ORecognition Celebration to honor and pay tribute to our members, donors, sponsors and volunteers. These remarkable individuals provide invaluable support through their donations, their time and their energy. BCHS Board Chairman, Bill Maeglin welcomed the group with a special message…. “Every day our work is devoted to furthering our mission and we recognize that this is only possible because of you and what you do. Our achievements are direct results of your dedication and commitment.” Nearly 200 guests enjoyed the event, which recognized the support they provided throughout 2012. A special Donor Recognition listing, which will hang in the Great Hall through spring 2014, was unveiled and featured the names of contributors to major programs and initiatives of the Mercer Museum and Library & Fonthill Castle. For a complete donor listing, please visit our website at www.mercermuseum.org. Four longtime volunteers received special recognition for their decades of involvement in the organization. Kenyon Brown, Bill Mount, Margaret Mumbauer, and James Wiley have more than Volunteer awardees ninety years of service between them. Their time, (clockwise): Bill Mount, talents and energy have been essential to our Nancy Bergere, Margaret organization. Additional volunteers recognized for Mumbauer with BCHS Executive Director, Doug their dedicated hours of service in 2012 included: Dolan, and Jim Wiley. Nancy Bergere, Doris Charles, Donna Humphrey, Wright Choice Photography Kathleen Schea and Dee Ann Smith. ■

4 EITC Approved Businesses Support History Day & Museum Apprentice Program ulton Bank, Hatboro Federal Savings offer teen volunteers an opportunity to work Fand Neuman Company, Inc. are the first in a museum environment while developing three businesses to support the Mercer leadership, communication, and research Museum’s educational programs through the skills useful for life beyond high school. Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax “We are committed to supporting the Credit (EITC) initiative. Approved as an Special Thanks to Our EITC Businesses museum’s efforts that directly impact Educational Improvement Organization primary and secondary research via youth education, and Fulton Bank is hon- (EIO), the Bucks County Historical Society’s libraries, archives, museums, oral history ored to play a part in the outreach and Mercer Museum provides two innovative interviews and the exploration of historic success of these quality programs,” said programs that enhance the curriculum and sites. The students present their work Joe Feilmeier, President of Fulton Bank’s academic programs of our region’s school in a variety of media – including Premier Division and a Trustee of the districts— National History Day and papers, websites, documentary videos, Bucks County Historical Society. Museum Apprentice Program (MAP). performances and exhibits. Our Museum To learn more about the EITC pro- National History Day engages middle Apprentice Program is directed primarily gram, please contact Laura Biersmith and high school students in a rigorous toward high school students in the Central at 215-345-0210 ext. 129/lbiersmith@ learning process involving extensive Bucks School District and is designed to mercermuseum.org. ■ Circus & Games Exhibits strategy, math, luck and and traveled by the physical coordination. Children’s Museum The focal point of the of Memphis for exhibit is an oversized the Youth Museum chess board with giant Exhibit Collaborative. playing pieces. Also Accompanying included is a “House of the Step Right Up! Cards” play area, where exhibit is a diverse visitors can try out a schedule of public variety of other board programs developed Timothy Noel Tegge. Curator of the “Step games while enjoying the in collaboration with Right Up!” exhibit, exhibit. the Philadelphia Tegge will present a Supplementing the School of Circus series of programs – some dressed in his interactive portion of the Arts, and with the ring-master’s garb – Games exhibit is a display exhibit’s curator, at the Mercer Museum Sells-Floto Circus Poster, c. 1930. Courtesy of the Tegge Circus of original board games Timothy Noel Tegge. in January. Courtesy Archives Collection. of the Tegge Circus from the 1800s and early Tegge joined us for Archives Collection. n January 25, the Mercer Museum 1900s from the Judy and Bud Newman the show’s opening Oopened two new traveling exhibitions. Collection. These early games feature reception, and presented a series of pro- The first, Step Right Up! Behind the stunning color lithography, interesting playing grams. Staff from the Philadelphia School Scenes of the Circus Big Top, 1890-1965, pieces, and intriguing content. Playing of Circus Arts performed at the opening explores the history and pageantry Together: Games is designed, built celebration, and will present a series of of the circus as a grand theatrical demonstrations on selected tradition, and includes dozens of Saturdays in February and colorful posters, costume artifacts, March. A special performance photographs and oral histories “ring” will be a feature of the from past performers. The exhibit exhibit itself, and school staff is being traveled by ExhibitsUSA, will perform aerials and wire a national division of the Mid- walking right in the gallery. America Arts Alliance and the Finally, two circus arts work- National Endowment for the Arts. shops are planned, one for It will run through March 16. kids and the other for teens The second show, Playing and adults. Participants will be Together: Games, is a hands-on introduced to juggling, wire exhibit that invites kids of all ages walking and other traditional to explore and play games from Parlor Football Game. McLoughlin Brothers, New York City, 1890s. circus skills. See our calendar around the world and across the Collection of Judy and Bud Newman. One of the original board games for more information on dates centuries. Included are games of to be exhibited alongside the traveling exhibit. and times. ■ 5 Seed Display, Guest House Register Among Recent Acquisitions ven now in the depths of winter, we Company’s “Red Rock” tomato variety. Efind comfort knowing that the return Donor David Long also contributed a of spring is not far away. With host of other items in addition to the springtime, of course, comes gradually Landreth artifacts, among them a lengthening days, warm showers – and baseball uniform from a Rohm & Haas planting season. With this in mind, now Company baseball team and several is a perfect time to highlight one of the local Boy Scout items. museum’s recent acquisitions – a Yet another interesting acquisition countertop rack intended to display from 2013 is a guest register from the products of Bristol’s famed the “Fell Guest House” in Landreth Seed Company. The Holicong, Bucks County. artifact is a gift of one of the Acquired at a local auction, museum’s most frequent the book spans the years contributors to the 1919 to 1938, and collections, David B. Long. includes the signatures In 1784, Scottish im- of many of the county’s migrant, David Landreth more illustrious full- relocated his fledgling time or part-time seed company from residents. In fact, the Montreal, Canada to period covered by the Philadelphia. Convinced register is one in which the mid-Atlantic region’s Seed Display Rack. Landreth Seed Company, Bristol, Bucks County, c. 1910. Bucks County was climate would be more Gift of David B. Long, 2013. growing in reputation congenial for his seed as a popular des- business, Landreth ambitiously began ex- Society – still active today as the sponsor of tination and retreat for artists, writers, panding his firm in the Philadelphia area. the annual Philadelphia Flower Show. actors, and other well-heeled tourists and Soon, his clients included the likes of In 1847, David Landreth II moved the ex-urban migrants. Among those who George Washington, Thomas Jefferson company’s production to Bloomsdale enjoyed the hospitality of the Fells were and Joseph Bonaparte – brother to Farms in Bristol, Bucks County. Just five the artist George W. Sotter, anthropologist Napoleon – who had settled on an estate years later, in 1852, Landreth provided Margaret Mead, and painter Casimir in nearby New Jersey. Commodore Matthew Perry with Sienkiewicz, perhaps better known for David Landreth quickly became known thousands of pounds of vegetable seeds to his role as a banker, economist and as an innovator and horticultural genius. In take with him on his grand voyage to open first chairman of the Southeastern 1798, his company introduced the zinnia trade with Japan. When Perry returned, he Pennsylvania Transportation Authority. to the United States, and in 1811 created brought with him the first Japanese shrub The book also documents the social the first truly white potato (previous tubers and plant species ever to be imported to the scene in the Doylestown-Buckingham- had been yellow-tinged). In 1820, the United States for the Landreth nurseries. Solebury area in the 1920s and ‘30s. It “Love Apple” (better known today as the The Landreth Company continued in seems that the guest house was a popular tomato), was perfected on the Landreth business, guided by David Landreth’s son, site for birthday, card and dinner parties – farm. Eight years later, Landreth, along Burnet, and other members of the family, and overnight getaways – for natives as with his son, David Landreth II, helped well into the twentieth century. However, well as out-of-towners. Local names found the Pennsylvania Horticultural in 1942 the firm was sold, and passed include those of realtor J. Carroll Malloy, through a series of hands, Judge Hiram Keller, physician Frank emerging eventually as a much Swartzlander, antiquarian Henry D. smaller entity limited to Paxson, and watercolor artist and journal packaging and distributing grass editor, Edward A. Trego. A few of the more seed. More recently, new owners artistic signatories in the guest book, like have sought to restore the Frank Swartzlander and George Sotter, Landreth name, and re-establish were even inspired to add pen and ink the company as a mail order seed sketches along with their names. business specializing in heirloom The exact location and proprietors of varieties and capitalizing on the the “Fell Guest House” are not identified firm’s history as the “oldest seed with certainty in the register, but further “Fell Guest House.” Drawing by George W. Sotter, 1937. George Sotter and his wife Alice signed their names next to house in America.” research will yield more clues. Based on this drawing in the guest register for the Fell Guest House. In addition to the display rack, one inscription, it seems the property was Alice’s note, “another happy evening spent with Edward and the museum also acquired an owned by an Edward and Anna Fell. Anna – celebrating their wedding anniversary,” suggests that Edward and Anna Fell were the proprietors of the small inn, early twentieth century advertising Anyone with more information is invited located in Holicong, Bucks County. Museum Purchase, 2013. inkwell featuring the Landreth to contact Cory Amsler, 215-345-0210, 6 Gift of Wedding Dresses he Mercer Museum has recently which expected apparel to be modest Tacquired two wedding dresses and simple. In traditional Quaker donated by Dorothy Cloud Reed, a weddings, the bride and groom Philadelphia native now liv- marry each other and do not ing in Lansdale. A plain involve any clergy. A tan silk dress with a fit- wedding certificate is ted bodice, leg-of- drawn-up with the be- mutton sleeves and a trothed’s names, date full long skirt was of the ceremony and worn by the donor’s vows, and is signed by great grandmother, all wedding attendees. Elizabeth Knight Other donated ob- James (1813-1890) jects include two wool in 1836 at her wedding monogrammed blan- at Byberry Friends kets, an early twentieth Buffalo Bills Game Jersey. Worn by Bryan Scott Meeting House, located century cotton bodice, and (Central Bucks East Class of 1999), 2009-2012. just over the Bucks County a bustled petticoat, circa Gift of Bryan Scott, 2013. line in Philadelphia County. A 1877. All are connected matching tan silk quilted with the Knight, James ext. 127, or [email protected]. shawl, completed the en- and Tomlinson families of Other items added to the Mercer semble. The other dress, a Bucks County. The li- Museum collection in the second half of tubular-shaped off-white silk brary has also received a 2013 include a “Dump the Pump” t-shirt dress with a belt and straight book written by the from the 1980s (given by David Groff), a train, was worn by the donor, Five Hundred 1940s-50s Civil Defense helmet and donor’s mother, Evelyn Quaker Grandparents, a related items once belonging to Samuel Tomlinson Cloud (1894- family history that Moore of Bristol, Bucks County (museum 1985) at her wedding in includes 50 years of purchase), an advertising sign for a Bristol 1917 at the West Philadel- genealogical research. ■ distillery (museum purchase), and two phia Friends Meeting House. wedding dresses and other items of attire According to the Friends from a Bucks County Quaker family Historical Library at Swarthmore Quaker Wedding Dress. Worn by Elizabeth (given by Dorothy Cloud Reed, and Knight James for her 1836 wedding at College, traditional Quaker weddings Byberry Friends Meeting. Gift of Dorothy described in the next article). followed a “Testimony of Plainness,” Cloud Reed, 2013. Finally, the museum was also pleased to receive a professional football game jersey and sports trading card from local athlete, Bryan Scott, a graduate of Central Bucks East High School. After playing college football at Penn State University, Scott was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the second round of the 2003 National Football League draft. In his ten-year career, Scott played professionally with the Atlanta Falcons, Tennessee Titans, New Orleans Saints and Buffalo Bills. In addition to his football skills, Scott is also a talented musician, playing drums, saxophone and piano. His “Pick Your Passion Foundation for the Arts” helps expose youth in underserved communities to the visual and performing arts. For more information about these recent acquisitions, and thousands of other items in the Mercer and Fonthill Tomlinson-Cloud Wedding. Evelyn Tomlinson (1894-1985), daughter of Mary and Augustus collections, visit our on-line catalog, Tomlinson of Byberry, married James Fenton Cloud (1874-1975) at the West Philadelphia “RolloPAC,” accessible via our website at Friends Meeting House in 1917. The bride’s wedding dress is now in the collection of the Mercer Museum. Gift of Dorothy Cloud Reed, 2013. www.mercermuseum.org. ■ 7 John A. Anderson ne of the many jewels to be found in the OMercer Museum’s Library is the photographic collection of John A. Anderson. His photographs and glass negatives, num- bering in the thousands, include a glimpse of what it was like at the turn of the century in the New Hope/Lambertville area. They also depict what life was like in many parts of the United States from the late nineteenth century into the early twentieth century, and at the same time provide a catalog of flora - some specimens that may not exist today! John Anderson was born in Fleming- ton, NJ in 1829 and died in Lambertville, NJ in 1917. His life spanned most of a century and, through photography, Anderson invites us into his personal life, showing many friends and family members, local houses and churches, and typical social and cultural activities of the Portrait of J.A. Anderson, vol 4:959. 1896 Goose Plum, Marietta, Georgia, vol 12:80. 1900 day. As a superintendent of the Pennsylva- nia Railroad System, he seems to have fine art. In their Bucks enjoyed travel and created many beautiful County Arts Catalog, they photos as souvenirs of his trips. note that his daguerreotypes The general collection can be broken and photographs exhibit “a into smaller groups of photographs focus- modern realism typical of a ing on specific areas of interest, including much later style known as pictures of summer homes in Upstate New picture stories.” York and Massachusetts; rural life in parts Mercer Museum Library of North Carolina and Georgia; the canals volunteers are presently in- and bridges along the Delaware River; and dexing John A. Anderson’s many of the famous missions in California; collection, so the images can all taken with something of an editorial be searched by topics and eye by Anderson. In addition to these keywords. When this project reminders of everyday life, Anderson was Enjoying the Kennebunkport Beach, vol 16:29. 1903 is complete, Anderson’s keenly interested in botany, and created an great photographic achieve- impressive number of studies of trees, The James A. Michener Art Museum ments will become more accessible to the flowers and fungi. recognizes Anderson’s photography as general public. ■ Collections on the Road!

he Mercer Museum’s loan program continues to be engage visitors and encourage them to begin their Tstrong and a great source of pride, traveling to own discussions of heritage, culture and adversity. The prestigious institutions and educating audiences young Mercer Museum is lending the 1960 Little League and old. Visit our artifact at the following institution: Championship bat from Levittown, PA. The bat is National Museum of American Jewish History, inscribed with the names of the players and coaches. The Philadelphia, PA names help tell our nation’s story of people coming “Chasing Dreams: Baseball and Jews in America” together from different religious and ethnic backgrounds March 13 – October 26, 2014 for the love of the game. This exhibit explores the role that baseball has played For more information on this artifact, please visit our in furthering our nation’s diversity and equality. Through on-line catalog RolloPAC and search accession number dynamic stories and intriguing artifacts, the exhibit will MM2003.31.002.

8 200 YEARS AGO IN BUCKS J.A. Anderson COUNTY… Collection, Vol 5:75. n September of 1814, the original New Hope – Lam- From N.J. Shore, Ibertville Bridge was completed. This wooden covered South of bridge replaced the service provided by Coryell’s Ferry, Bridge. and gave a boost to commerce between the communities December on both sides of the Delaware River. The designer, Lewis 1896. Wernwag, was nationally known for his covered bridges. In 1841 a flood damaged the original bridge. A year later a second wooden covered bridge was constructed. The present steel bridge connecting Pennsylvania and New Jersey was completed in 1904 at a cost of $63,818.81.

One Hundred Years of the Mercer Museum, 1914-2014 ne hundred years ago, the building of Society’s earlier Elkins Building had also powered concrete mixer. The mixer had Othe Mercer Museum was well under- been finished. In his notes, Mercer been brought over to the museum project way. Begun in the spring of 1913, the describes his ratio for the building’s con- after it had been employed successfully in museum’s concrete foundation, walls and crete mixture: 1 part cement to 2 ½ parts erecting the garage at Fonthill. Finally, floors had risen gradually through the sand, to 5 parts stone. Though he also de- Mercer claimed to have identified the labors of a small human work crew and a tails some alternative concrete mixes problem. The delays were not the result of horse named “Lucy.” Henry Mercer him- being employed in other building projects mechanical problems, he wrote, but in- self supervised the work, serving as archi- in the area, he does not indicate that he stead were likely deliberate sabotage by a tect and engineer, though he conveyed his decided to change his formula. disgruntled worker. designs and directives through his con- As the summer of 1914 progressed, According to Mercer, the mixer’s opera- struction foreman, William Labs. Mercer began to fret that his enterprise tor – a workman by the name of Joseph Over the course of 1913 the foundation was falling behind schedule – due in part Sentman, or Senftman – had been inten- had been laid, and the lower walls of the to repeated breakdowns of his gasoline- tionally putting the machine out of order. museum were complete. Sentman had been Mercer noted in his con- employed by Mercer on the struction notebook that he garage project, and at one had purchased a large point had led a “strike,” quantity of lumber for use refusing to work. Mercer in forming the concrete claimed this action was structure – including old “without grievance” and fencing and boards that does not elaborate further had once comprised the on any issues that may have bleachers of the former led to the work stoppage. In baseball grounds. Prior to any case, Mercer had fired its acquisition by the His- Sentman in the summer of torical Society, the mu- 2013, only to hire him back seum property had served the following winter on the as a community baseball museum project. By mid- diamond, among other summer of 2014, Mercer’s recreational uses. patience again exhausted, he By May 30, 1914, fired Sentman for “drink- Mercer noted that the mu- ing, demoralizing the men, seum’s “1st gallery level” and holding back output.” (today’s Central Court) As we celebrate the had been completed, museum’s centennial, future “with all rooms and MERCER MUSEUM UNDER CONSTRUCTION, C. 1914. Through 2016, the Historical issues of this newsletter alcoves cast.” The connec- Society will be celebrating the centennial anniversary of the construction of the will continue to chronicle Mercer Museum. This image, probably taken by local photographer Geneva Clay of tor between the new mu- the Clay Studio, Doylestown, is from Henry Mercer’s construction records. Mercer the building’s progress seum and the Historical Library Collection. between 1914 and 1916. ■ 9 “Adopt-a-Firefighting Artifact” Campaign n 2015, the Mercer Museum will Through the “Adopt-an-Artifact” please contact the Mercer Museum’s V.P. Ipresent a major exhibition on the program, BCHS members and other for Collections and Interpretation, Cory history of firefighting in America, with members of the public can have a major Amsler, at 215-345-0210 ext. 127, or at an emphasis on the Philadelphia area. impact on the preservation of a critical [email protected]. ■ Following up on the success of a part of our history. Museum staff have previous “Adopt-an-Artifact” initiative in identified the artifacts most in need of conjunction with our 2013 Civil War conservation treatment. These have been Repairs Completed exhibit, we are now launching a similar carefully examined by specialists to effort to raise funds for the treatment of determine the appropriate treatment for at Mercer more than thirty firefighting-related each. Treatments will be designed objects and works of art. both to ensure the objects’ long-term preservation, and to clean and prepare the artifacts for exhibition. Artifacts requiring treatment include parade hats and helmets, fire buckets, insurance company fire marks, firemen’s horns or speaking trumpets, apparatus models and other items. A complete listing is posted on the Mercer Museum’s website. Simply go to: http://www.mercermuseum.org/ join-and-support/adopt-an-artifact/. Much needed leak remediation work on the Mercer Library roof was completed by Happ Your gift in the amount indicated will Contractors in 2013. The work ensures the entitle the donor to a “certificate of safety and preservation of our collections for adoption,” plus recognition in museum future generations. Concrete sections of the FIREMAN’S PARADE HAT. Hibernia Engine roof were patched and a portion received a Company, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, catalog records and in label copy for the new membrane. All work on our museums 1845-1865. Gift of the Volunteer Firemen’s planned 2015 firefighting exhibit. Gifts follows the Secretary of Interior’s guidelines Association of Philadelphia, 1919. One of can be made in the name of the donor, for historic preservation. The research a number of firefighting artifacts needing library wing dates to 1934 and was designed conservation treatment in the Mercer Museum on the part of a group or organization, or by architect, Oscar Martin. The project was collection. Made from pressed felt, and painted in memory of a loved one – perhaps generously supported by a $10,000 capital with the volunteer fire company’s name and themselves a firefighter! improvement grant from Foundations symbol, such decorative hats were typically Community Partnership and a planned gift worn for ceremonial purposes rather than for For more information, or to have the from the Estate of Victoria P. Herd. protection at a fire. list of needy artifacts sent directly to you, Love in the Afternoon n Sunday afternoon, February of Music at Westminster College O9, an ensemble of talented of the Arts at Rider University; storytellers and musicians from Deborah Pieri, a Chester County around the Delaware Valley will schoolteacher and the recipient of gather to celebrate the coming multiple grants and awards for Valentine’s Day in poetry, story and storytelling and teaching excellence; song. The special storytelling Denise Valentine, a rostered artist concert, entitled “Love in All its with the Commonwealth Speakers Shapes and Forms,” is open to the Bureau of the Pennsylvania public, and presented in Humanities Council; and Bill Wood, collaboration with Ray Gray, a whose latest recording of stories, Doylestown-based storyteller. entitled Bill & Vick’s Picks: Spooky The performers include Gerry Tales, Vol. 1, received a Parents’ Fierst, a featured teller at the Choice Silver Honor Award. National Storytelling Festival in The concert will run from 2 to 4 Tennessee and former artistic DOYLESTOWN STORYTELLER RAY GRAY. In p.m., with light refreshments served director for the Jewish Storytelling collaboration with the Mercer Museum, Gray will during intermission in the program. Center at the 92nd Street YMCA in produce and present the multi-artist storytelling Tickets are $15 ($12 for members). concert, “Love in All Its Shapes and Forms,” at the New York City; Philip Orr, an museum on Sunday, February 9. Photo courtesy of Call 215-348-9461, ext. 210 to eclectic composer and professor Ray Gray. reserve your seats!

10 Get Your Kicks! Route 66 Exhibit America’s Road: Coming this Summer Route 66 Inspired Walking Tour highway architecture and automotive n August, 2014, take a step back in culture – as well as decaying ruins of time and enjoy an evening stroll the road’s former glory. Among pres- I through Doylestown history! These ent-day pilgrims traveling Route 66 family-friendly walking tours, inspired was the exhibit’s developer, Seth by our America’s Road: The Journey Leary of NRG! Exhibits. Together of Route 66 exhibit opening on May with his son, Adrian, they traveled 31, 2014, will focus on Doylestown’s the entire length of the highway in an automotive history. original, un-restored 1965 Ford Mustang, in preparation for the exhibition. The Mustang forms BCHS Library a centerpiece of the exhibit, and Collections Highlighted The Iconic is a visual metaphor for the Highway show’s title. in Thornton Wilder’s The exhibit’s narrative takes Our Town he iconic visitors from the highway’s Thighway opening in 1926, up to the pres- featured in the ent day. Graphic displays, props, Bobby Troupe CLASSIC CAR COLLECTOR GENE EPSTEIN artifacts, interpretive text, and song, and that WITH HIS “ELVIS” MERCEDES. The car, interactive experiences – in- author John once owned by Elvis Presley, will be cluding a drive-in theater and a included in the Mercer Museum’s exhibit, Steinbeck re- America’s Road: The Journey of Route period radio show – help deliver ferred to as 66, opening on May 31. the story. Themes include “The Mother American migration, the evolu- The Mercer Museum & Library col- Road,” is the subject of a new traveling tion of automotive travel, roadside architec- laborated with Central Bucks West High exhibit making its debut at the Mercer ture, and technological and cultural School’s Theater Director, Brian Weiner Museum this summer. America’s Road: The innovation. Included with the exhibit is a for the school’s fall 2013 performance Journey of Route 66, opens on Saturday, photo essay created by photographer and of Thornton Wilder’s Our Town. The May 31 and runs through August 24. The author, Russell Olsen. Olsen researched and cast utilized images of Bucks County show is produced and traveled by NRG! photographed 75 classic service stations, residents from our library collection as Exhibits of Kirkland, Washington. motor courts, restaurants and other sites inspiration for their characters. Images Made famous in song and story, the his- along Route 66. In the exhibit, the sites and from our collection were used as a toric “Route 66” is thoroughly emblematic structures are shown as they appeared dur- rotating backdrop highlighting historic of the American experience in the twentieth ing the mid-twentieth century, and as they Doylestown locations such as Main century. Early in its history, the road served look today. Street, the Doylestown Inn, Doylestown as a conduit for migrants fleeing the Dust To augment the traveling portion of the Dairy, Fountain House and more! Bowl, hoping desperately for better oppor- exhibit, the Mercer Museum is working tunities in California. Later it became a with several local collectors of vintage au- Friends on a Mission continued from page 2 major tourist route, and a monument to tomobiles and other items of automotive new entrance showcase a recognition plaque America’s automotive culture. Though much culture. Several iconic vehicles, along for the group’s generosity and commitment. changed, the highway still stretches nearly with roadside signage and memorabilia Upcoming programs hosted by the 2,500 miles and passes through eight states. are expected to be interwoven into the Friends of BCHS at the Mercer Museum Like the nineteenth-century’s great wagon show. Among them will be a 1969 Mer- include: trails, it provided a pathway for the migra- cedes 600 (short-wheelbase), once owned • Pennsylvania German Easter Egg tion of thousands of people from the Mid- by Elvis Presley, and now part of the ex- Decorating, Monday, March 17, west to the Pacific Coast in the modern era. tensive collection of Gene Epstein of 12:30 p.m., free Today, thousands of people from across Wrightstown, Bucks County. Purchased in • Lenape Native Americans, Sunday, the country and around the world drive all Hollywood, and originally registered in April 6, 1:00 p.m., $15/person ($12/ or portions of Historic Route 66 each year. Tennessee, the car was purportedly one of Friends of BCHS) For some, it’s simply an exercise in nostal- Elvis’ favorites. He kept the vehicle for six To learn more about the Friends of gia. For others, it’s a deeply visceral explo- or seven years before passing it on as a gift BCHS, their programs and activities, or to ration of hundred years of highway culture to a friend. The Presley Mercedes will join join this special group, please visit our web- on the “Main Street of America.” Seeking several other classic cars from the 1940s site, www.mercermuseum.org or contact not only what can still be found, but also through the 1960s in the exhibit, includ- Eileen Shapiro, Special Events Coordinator what has been lost, travelers discover thriv- ing a rare Oldsmobile “Woody” wagon at 215-345-0210 ext. 132/eshapiro@ ing relics – well preserved examples of and a 1957 Ford Thunderbird. ■ mercermuseum.org ■ 11 Columbus Room Niche Mystery

ne of the rewards of This photograph shows a Olooking at old photo- similar flair in the rim of graphs are the wonderful this late nineteenth details that can be discov- century Moroccan earthenware vase. You ered. While looking at a photo- can see the “184” at graph of the Columbus Room that the bottom of the vase. is a part of the Historic American Photo: Vance Koehler. Building Survey (HABS) collection, the staff at Fonthill noticed breakage by servants an interesting detail. In the in house cleaning. After niche above the concrete my aunt’s death both dresser, which currently vases went to my brother has a candlestick, a ce- William R. Mercer ramic vessel can be seen. along with my gift to It has long been known The red circle shows the Etruscan vase in the him of my ½ share of tiled niche in the Columbus Room. This photo is that over time certain Aldie & its contents. part of the HABS collection that can be found at objects were moved from He gave to me, Henry Library of Congress web site. It is thought that their original location and this picture was taken in the mid-1960s. C. Mercer, as a Christ- Photo: Jack E. Boucher. stored in other parts of the mas gift on December house. So the question arose, 21st (Friday morning) searched the storage areas and found the where is this vessel today? 1928. As several of my Uncle small Moorish vase. Fonthill staff is cur- After some searching of the Lawrence’s heirlooms brought rently working on placing both objects likely storage areas, a ceramic to Aldie had, I heard, been bought back in the niche so that today’s visitors vessel was found with the right shape as by him at “one of the Paris Exhibi- can examine for themselves the beauty of the one in the HABS photograph. On the tions” these might have been there these objects and the similarities in shape vessel, we discovered the number 182 in a purchased at the 1855 or 1867 Fairs that so intrigued Henry Mercer. ■ triangle. This object was one that Henry & taken to Florence when he was U. Mercer had cataloged. Throughout the S. Consul General there.” castle, there are about 184 objects that have We now knew we found the object numbers painted within a triangle. These that was in the niche. But reading a numbers correspond to a catalog Mercer few entries down from created noting what he knew about these triangle object 182 we read special items, where he got the object and the following entry: sometimes who gave it to him. Object 182 184: “Moorish vase – green was described by Mercer as such: glaze – made in Morocco – late 182: “Very valuable and rare and 19th century. Bought by H. C. Mer- beautiful Etruscan vase or pitcher or cer at Benoliel’s Antique Shop at bowl – decorated with 3 rows of en- Gibraltar about 1905. I placed this in circling animals horned & unhorned the glazed alcove in the Columbus – bulls & cows?? . A masterpiece as Room March 15, 1929, to show the beautiful & rich & graceful as any I similarity in the shape of the have seen of its kind, in any mu- This wine pitcher flared rim, to that of the Etr- (olpe) is probably seum, where this type of vase is gen- uscan Vase No. 182 placed be- Etruscan or possibly erally shown. Height to top of ears side it in the same niche.” Greek in origin circa 12 ¼ inches. This vase & the fol- 600-500 BCE. Photo: With this information we Vance Koehler. lowing No. 183 were brought from now had a more complete idea Florence (my Uncle Timothy of what resided in the niche. Bigelow Lawrence’s Villa Torrigiani) Not only was triangle object in 1872, when Aldie was built or 182 there, we now knew that soon after – where they were the there was a second object that property of my “Aunt Lela,” Mrs. T. could not be seen in the pho- B. Lawrence, after her husband’s tograph. In addition, we could death. They stood on one of the confirm that both of these ce- shelves of carved Renaissance ramic vessels had been placed shelved cupboard in the corner of the there by Mercer and not moved Library to the left of the fireplace – there at a later time by Laura Swain, always, I thought at great risk of Mercer’s housekeeper or a curator! We

12 Brocade Tile Panel Henry Mercer’s Wagon Journey of 1885 Editor’s note: In 1885 Henry Mercer travelled with a friend, Tom Plummer, by horse and wagon from Pennsylvania to Virginia over a period of twenty four days. He sought out Mercer family locations (e.g., Aldie, the Virginia town founded by an ancestor, and Belmont, the plantation where his great-aunt Margaret Mercer’s girls’ school had been located). Mercer visited Civil War sites and encountered many Civil War veterans along the way. He sketched Indian rock carvings found on boulders in the Susquehanna River, designs he later used in the tile floor of the State Capitol building at Harrisburg. He kept an extensive journal which resulted in a series of articles submitted to the newspaper following his return. An excerpt from those articles is included here: A Wagon Journey From Doylestown to Williamsburg, Virginia Containing some account of the manners and customs of the people and of the adventures that befell the writer and his friend on their way through parts of Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia, in the year eighteen hundred and eighty-five. — By H. C. Mercer Chapter I. the manner of gypsies for our mid-day After some delay in our final meal, under a locust tree by the roadside. arrangement T— (Tom Plummer) and I Unharnessing the horse, and feeding him left home on the morning of May the from the oats bag for want of a box, we ____, 1885. Our horse started off at a ate with great relish our luncheon, oravian Pottery & Tile Works, brisk pace, and as we drove through consisting of baked potatoes, bread, eggs, MDoylestown, 1916. Originally in- Doylestown not a few passers-by canned peaches and several mutton chops stalled on the façade of Clayton High stopped to say good bye, or to scrutinize brought from home, the latter holding School near St. Louis, Missouri, this the large leather boot strapped under our upon pointed sticks we warmed Moravian Tile panel was given to the phaeton (wagon), in which was stored excellently over a small fire made of Mercer Museum in 2011 by James our baggage, some provisions, and a twigs and dried grass. No description Dautcher, in memory of J. David Miller, complete outfit of India rubber coats and could easily recall our impressions of this former trustee and chair of the Histori- blankets. The large umbrella swung beautiful spot. The air was soft and laden cal Society’s Collections Committee. under all did not escape attention. This with the perfume of locust blossoms, The panel formed part of a tile frieze, could be opened over our heads, and which, fluttering from the boughs or mural, set above the doorway to the being adjusted in a hole in the seat overhead, strewed the ground at our feet. high school. Recently installed in the between us, formed an excellent No bush or fence interrupted our view of Mercer Museum’s stair tower, it joins protection in case of rain or hot sun. the panorama beneath. We conversed, four others also on view, given to the Driving rapidly though a well argued, wrote and sketched while several collection in 1990 by Robert and Joyce cultivated rolling country, not as yet hours slipped by; twice lying upon the Byers. A sixth panel, which completed unknown to us, we soon crossed the line bank at full length, the horse browsing by the original frieze, is in the collection of of Montgomery county and hastened by our side, we almost fell asleep, until the the Moravian Pottery & Tile Works. turnpike and by-road to the southward. longer shadows cast by the trees The gladness of spring was in the reminded us of the approach of evening. earthly freshness of new furrows that Having re-harnessed the horse and left floated on the breeze, in the mist that him tied to the fence, we walked some Visit Our New hung upon the ridges and about the distance down the road in search of a woods, whence came a continuous spring, which we had noticed on our way Bucks Mont History cawing of crows. Farmers shouted at several hours before. On our return the their horses; there were flashes upon the animal touched with the whip, much to Day Website hillsides where moving plowshares our surprise, almost walked out of the he Bucks and Montgomery Counties gleamed in the sunbeams. shafts, and it appeared that a well known TRegional History Day competition now Country people in “buggies” and practical joke had been played upon us, has its own website. Thanks to funding heavy laden wagons passed us on the some boys, whom we had before seen on through the iPromise Grant from Volpe- roads, and not a few men on foot with the road, having taken advantage of our Koenig, P.C., Intellectual Property Law, we the well-known mark of tramp and absence to secretly unfasten the traces. are now able to reach our audience in a whole vagabond upon them… They now sat on a fence near the bottom new way. Students, teachers, and parents will of the hill and seeing the success of their be able to access registration and contest in- Chapter II. (on the way to Yellow joke, set up a derisive shout, but on T formation, curriculum and standards tie-ins, Springs, Chester County) jumping out of the wagon to give chase project examples and so much more! …At last as it was past noon and no ran down the hillside and quickly Please visit us at our new site: house appearing in sight, we halted after disappeared in the wood…. ■ nhdbucksmont.org 13 Be a Judge for National History Day! I WANT YOU to volunteer ational History Day is a highly for Fonthill’s Nregarded academic program for ele- Old-Fashioned mentary and secondary students. History Fourth of July Celebration, on Day is an experience that positively Friday, July 4. impacts students throughout Bucks and Since it's Montgomery Counties. It helps students Fonthill's biggest event further develop their research skills and of the year, we bolsters their confidence, which ultimately need an army improves their academic success! of volunteers to help with This year’s Bucks and Montgomery games, crafts, Counties Regional Competition will take admissions, and place on Saturday, March 22, 2014 at Ursi- so much more! Volunteers nus College in Collegeville, PA. Students receive an in grades 6 through 12 compete, as an in- event staff dividual or in a group, in five categories: t-shirt, snacks and cool place Exhibits, Documentaries, Websites, Per- to get out of the formances, and Historical Papers. The heat. For more theme for this year’s competition is Rights information or to volunteer, & Responsibilities in History. e-mail An expertise in history is not necessary fhmail@fonthill to become a History Day Judge. All we museum.org or call 215- need are volunteers who enjoy working 348-9461. with young people! For more information about becoming a judge for History Day, please visit our NHD Bucks Mont website at www.nhdbucksmont.org/current- Review on Trip Advisor contest/judge-information/ or email us at t is amazing what you can do with poured concrete. [email protected]. IThe Mercer Museum is an architectural wonder as well as being filled with the most eclectic collection of early American tools and daily use items. The items Reader’s Inquiry may look like a jumble and not much is explained or even identified but the fact that these implements are saved from being melted down (metal objects and tools) or burned for firewood makes this one of the most important collections of how our Founding Fathers made their way in this new land and will be studied by many scholars for years. This is a great museum for kids because there are some experiential sections through the 7 floors… By Rosie T. ■ Mercer in the News

he Mercer Museum Twas the subject of a four-page article in the February issue of Popular Woodworking Magazine. The piece was written by the mag- After reading “The Story of the Long White Baby azine’s senior editor, Dress” in the July-December 2012 newsletter, who toured the museum Mercer Museum member Lynda Skaddan met with Curatorial Assistant, Carol Jones to learn about in November 2013, and the Skaddan family baby dress. Although some of took numerous photo- the story of Lynda’s dress will remain a “history graphs which can be mystery,” Carol was able to provide Lynda with some information regarding the background and seen in the article. an approximate date of her dress. 14 2014 Winter-Spring Calendar of Events for Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle

Pennsylvania German Easter Egg Decorating Exhibits Friends of BCHS Quarterly Meeting at the Mercer Monday, March 17, 12:30 p.m Summer Internship Free. Step Right Up! Behind the Scenes Lenape Native Americans: Program of the Circus Big Top, 1890-1965 Sponsored by Friends of the BCHS The Mercer Museum continues to col- January 25 – March 16 Sunday, April 6, 1 p.m. laborate with area colleges and universi- Drawn from the Tegge Circus $15/$12 Friends of BCHS members ties providing students with an educational Archives, and traveled by SAVE THE DATE… and enjoyable internship experience. This ExhibitsUSA. 2014 Mercer Legacy Sweepstakes past summer the museum had over 10 col- Exhibit: Playing Together: Games Sunday, April 27, 4 – 6 p.m. lege students engaged in all departments, January 25 – May 11 Fonthill Castle gaining firsthand experience in curatorial Purchase an entry in our 2014 Mercer and archival management, public pro- Step Right Up! Legacy Sweepstakes and you could win gramming and marketing, and general Programs at the Mercer Museum a brand new car or $20,000 cash! museum practices. Special Presentation: To enter, call 215-345-0210, ext. 132 Hollywood Goes to the Circus or visit mercermuseum.org. The museum is currently accepting re- Sunday, January 26, 2 – 3:30 p.m. sumes for its summer 2014 program. Re- $12/$10 members quirements include: current enrollment in a college program, two professional/acad- School’s Out Kids’ Program: emic references, and a love of history! For Be a Clown! more information on the museum’s pro- Monday, January 27, 10 a.m. – Noon $8 per child gram, please contact Sara Good at [email protected] or 215-345- Circus Aerialist Demonstrations 0210 ext 119. ■ Saturdays: February 2, 16 & March 2, 1– 3 p.m. Panel Presentation: The Circus - General Information Past, Present and Future Check out our website at Saturday, February 15, 1 – 2:30 p.m. $12/$10/members www.mercermuseum.org Circus Arts Workshop for Adults Mercer Museum & Museum Shop Saturday, February 22, 2 – 3:30 p.m. Programs at Fonthill Castle 84 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA 18901- $12/$10 members 4930 Tower Tour for Families PHONE: 215-345-0210 FAX: 215-230-0823 Circus Arts Workshop for Kids Saturdays: February! HOURS: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, March 15, 2 – 3:30 p.m. March 1 & April 5 Sunday, noon–5 p.m. $12/$10 members 10:30 a.m. & 11:45 a.m. Also at the Mercer Museum: Research Library $12 adults/$6 youth; $7 member adults/$3 HOURS: Tuesday-Thursday, 1–5 p.m. member youth Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fonthill Castle More Mercer Programs Mustache Monday Valentine’s Storytelling Concert: Monday, February 17, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. East Court Street & Route 313, Love in All Shapes and Forms Doylestown, PA 18901-4930 $1 off admission for adults/seniors who PHONE: 215-348-9461 FAX: 215-348-9462 Sunday, February 9, 2 – 4 p.m. sport a mustache. HOURS: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $15/$12 members Sunday, noon–5 p.m. Paint a Knightly Shield Youth Program Foodways of Washington’s Time Monday, February 17, 1-3 p.m. (Guided tours only; reservations suggested) Monday, February 17, Noon – 4 p.m. Members receive unlimited free admission to $12 youth /$7 member youth Mercer Museum and Library & Fonthill Castle. African-American History Month Make a Pressed Tile Youth Workshop Newsletter Program: Healing African Dance Saturday, March 15, 10:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. Gayle Shupack, Editor Sunday, February 23, 2 p.m. $25 youth/$20 member youth Molly Lowell, Associate Editor 19th Annual Dolls’ Day Out Newsletter is a benefit of membership. Behind the Scenes Tours Saturday, March 8, 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 29, 6:30-9 p.m. $15/$12 members The Mercer Museum and Library $15/$12 members & Fonthill Castle are administered by the Bucks County Historical Society. www.mercermuseum.org

15 NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID DOYLESTOWN, PA 84 S. Pine Street PERMIT NO. 274 Doylestown, PA 18901

View online tours of the castles on our website at www.mercermuseum.org or follow us on Facebook & Twitter.

Exhibits at the Mercer Happy Valentine’s Day

January 25-March 16

Playing Together: Games January 25- May 11 Bud Newman with one of the games he loaned From the collection of Members visit Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle to the Playing Together: Mercer Museum Library. for FREE all year long! Games exhibit.