The Magnificent House, Gardens and Arboretum of the Nicholas Biddle Estate
The historic Nicholas Biddle Estate - also known as Andalusia - is located on the banks of the Delaware river just a few miles northeast of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. So then why is it named after Andalusia, which is a region of Spain? In 1795 the original owner, John Craig, purchased a large tract of riverside land and built a summer retreat on it which he named Andalusia to commerate his many successful business dealings with Spain.
If the Craig family built and owned it, why is it known as the Biddle Estate? In 1811 Craig's daughter Jane married American financier Nicholas Biddle, the property was acquired by the couple in 1814, and it remained the Biddle family's residence until 1980 when they generously opted to preserve and open it to the public under the auspices of The Andalusia Foundation, an organization they created specifically for this purpose.
The original house John Craig built was extensively modified and expanded by Nicholas Biddle in the 1830s through the talent of famous architect Thomas Walter, the man who designed the U.S. Capitol dome. The mansion is now considered one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the United States, and with its massive Doric columns, the exterior looks like an ancient Greek temple.
The interior of the building is equally splendid, furnished with exquisite antiques, beautiful artwork, gorgeous rugs and opulent drapery. Many of the items have been passed down thru the family for generations and have quite a history, such as a bed gifted to the Biddle family by Napoleon's brother, Joseph Bonaparte. I can't imagine the family's kids jumping up and down on that priceless heirloom, but children will be children!
The grounds of the estate are incredible, too, with colorful gardens, manicured lawns, open fields full of native plants, and a wide variety of well tended trees that have justly earned it a reputation as a highly respected arboretum. Add to this its sweeping river view and you have an idyllic setting.
As if the buildings and grounds of Andalusia were not impressive enough, once you learn the story of the Biddle family, you are truly amazed. Over the course of history this prominent and influential American family accomplished great things and they continue to do so to this day. As president of the Bank of the United States from 1823-1836 Nicholas Biddle's vision and financial acumen paved the way for modern fiscal policy. Family members have included decorated war heroes, high ranking military officers, diplomats, politicians, scholars, writers, artists and philanthropists. What a remarkable family!
There were other aspects of the Biddle Estate that also impressed me. For one thing, the Biddle family is still deeply connected to their ancestral home. Although they no longer reside in the "Big House" as its called, they are actively involved in Andalusia's upkeep and future. Too often, I tour historic mansions and estates that have passed from the original families into the hands of the government for preservation and while the family history is presented there, they usually lack a connection to living descendants.
I must say, I was absolutely delighted to see this amazing place so meticulously maintained by The Andalusia Foundation. Although the expense and work involved in the upkeep of the buildings and grounds are substantial, everything is carefully tended to by a dedicated team of caretakers, groundskeepers, arbourists, maintainers, staff members and consultants who are experts in their fields.
If you ever have the opportunity to visit Andalusia, be sure to do so. Stroll the beautiful grounds, marvel at the grandeur of the "Big House" and ponder the history while exploring the estate. You'll be glad you did.
