Deshler-Morris House
Overview
The oldest official presidential residence, the Germantown White House, (Deshler-Morris House) twice sheltered George Washington. Built by Quaker merchant, David Deshler before the Revolution, this handsome stone house faces historic Market Square. During the Battle of Germantown in 1777, British Commander Sir William Howe, made the house his headquarters. While the yellow fever epidemic raged in Philadelphia in 1793, business of the new republic continued at the Germantown "White House". Here, President Washington presided over meetings with his divided cabinet: Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, Henry Knox and Edmund Randolph. The president returned with his family to spend the following summer in Germantown's pleasant surroundings. More recently, the Morris family lived here for over one hundred years, donating it to the National Park Service in 1948. Now a unit of Independence National Historical Park, guided tours of the Germantown "White House" offers a glimpse into the private world of the first president.
Activities
Historic Sites
The oldest official presidential residence, the Germantown White House, (Deshler-Morris House) twice sheltered George Washington. In October 1793, he found refuge during the Yellow Fever epidemic in Philadelphia. Continuing the business of government, he held four cabinet meetings here. The next summer, it was a welcome retreat for him and his family near Philadelphia, the Federal Capital.
Seasonality/Weather
Four distinct seasons with moderately cold winter and hot, humid summer. January average temperature, 33 F; July average temperature, 75 F; average yearly rainfall, 41 inches; normal seasonal snowfall, 21 inches.
Directions
Driving
From Center City, take Interstate 676 West to Interstate 76 West to Exit #32 and follow the signs to Lincoln Drive. At first light, turn right onto Rittenhouse Street. At next light, turn right onto Wissahickon Avenue. At second light, turn left onto School House lane and continue to Germantown Avenue. Turn right onto Germantown Avenue. The site is located on the right hand side.
Public Transportation
By bus, SEPTA #23 on Germantown Avenue to School House Lane. The site is located in the middle of the block. By train, Chestnut Hill West (R8) to Chelten Avenue station. Out of the station walk east ½ block and turn right on to Pulaski Avenue. One block up Pulaski then left on School House lane. Walk three blocks to Germantown Avenue. Turn right onto Germantown Avenue. The site is located in the middle of the block.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(215) 597-1293Links
Official URL
http://www.nps.gov/demo- Login or register to post comments
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