Reimagining Belmont: A Fundraiser and Preview Event for the Mansion

A fundraising event to celebrate this historic Philadelphia treasure and preview the blueprint for its future. Hosted by the American Women's Heritage Society (AWHS) and the Women's Committee for the 250th, a program of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation, Reimagining Belmont is a celebration of Belmont's past and an exclusive look into its future. Featuring: • Cocktails and Hors d'oeuvres, Music and Entertainment, Silent Auction, Museum Tours • A Special Sneak Preview of the plans for the future of Belmont Mansion and Underground Railroad Museum Become a part of The Belmont Mansion Story Built in 1745 overlooking the Schuylkill River, today Belmont Mansion is a national landmark where the story of American independence intersects with African American history. Originally a weekend retreat for well-known figures in the American Revolution, Belmont Mansion later became a refuge for freedom-seekers traveling north as part of the Underground Railroad movement. The Mansion fell upon hard times during the 1980s until it was saved by Audrey Johnson-Thornton and the American Women’s Heritage Society (AWHS) who worked tirelessly to restore the Mansion and uncover its history. Forty years later, Audrey’s descendants, the Johnson-Booker family, continue to steward the Mansion. Today, AWHS remains the only Black-founded, women-led organization preserving a historic estate in Philadelphia. Drawing inspiration from Belmont Mansion's history and a centuries-old tradition of women playing an influential role in each of our nation’s anniversaries, Philadelphia250’s Women’s Committee, comprising 300+ Philadelphia women, elected to support the revitalization and renovation of Belmont Mansion. The project launched in early 2026 with seed funding from AWHS and Philadelphia250. On November 12th, the blueprint for Belmont Mansion’s future will be revealed to the public for the first time. We hope you will join our journey to ensure that the Mansion, Underground Railroad Museum and grounds remain an American and Philadelphian landmark, community gathering space, and place of learning for generations to come. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Jane Grabias at [email protected].