Friends of Woodburne

Woodburne Mansion, designed by noted architect Horace Trumbauer (Free Library of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Museum of Art, etc) in 1906 is spectacular but today the mansion is deteriorating from within.  Stolen copper flashing has allowed water to permeate the building causing significant damage.   As an urgent first step, roof repair  is needed to keep water out and prevent further decay.    The rest of the to-do list is long, owing not just to natural deterioration but to shockingly destructive vandalism over the years.   Woodburne can be a world class wedding and conference venue and guest house overlooking the beautiful Darby Creek and the hope is to use Woodburne’s reconstruction as an opportunity to train residents for professional careers upgrading older buildings for modern use. Stopping the leaks is a necessary first step. We have received a $7,500 estimate for emergency, short term repairs to stop the leaks and dry out the building to allow evaluation and planning of next steps.  We are asking your help in raising that sum to help save this building. More information  can be found on the web site  http://www.darbyhistory.com/Woodburne or questions sent to [email redacted]