In a tribute to Philadelphia's Victorian heritage, the Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion will revive its annual fundraising gala on Feb. 15, bringing period music, dance, and culture to a historic Chestnut Hill home.
The event, which was suspended during Covid, marks a return to tradition for Philadelphia's museum of 19th-century everyday life. This year's celebration will be hosted at the residence of longtime museum supporter Jeanette Turnbull and her husband Mark.
"I happen to be a big fan of Victorian culture, and the Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion represents the epitome of Victorian culture as it was in Northwest Philadelphia," said Turnbull, who has been associated with the museum since 1980.
The gala, scheduled for the day after Valentine's Day, will embrace an appropriate color scheme.
“I’m going to decorate my house with all sorts of redness,” she said. “People are invited to wear red if they wish. It’s going to be quite a vibrant evening.”
Entertainment will feature pianist Artem Tenkeli and performers from Opera on Tap Philadelphia, while costumed interpreters from the mansion's docent group will share insights into formal Victorian events.
“Absolute authenticity is very important,” Turnbull noted. "Our docents teach people some things that they're often surprised to hear – how they did things, what they ate – it's just a very accurate representation of daily life for Victorian age Philadelphians."
The Turnbull residence itself carries significant historical importance. Previous owners hosted various dignitaries, and one former resident had a sibling who perished on the Titanic. The home once displayed masterpieces from the Carol Tyson collection, including an iconic sunflower painting and Renoir's "The Bathers," both now housed at The Philadelphia Museum of Art.
The Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion, built in 1859 by cloth merchant Ebenezer Maxwell, was saved from potential destruction by community action in the early 1960s. Neighbors raised funds to purchase the building in 1964, transforming it into a museum dedicated to Victorian American life. Its historic gardens continue to serve as a recognized community green space.
"This is a wonderful chance to celebrate history and meet with the mansion's supporters," said Executive Director George Boudreau.
The gala runs from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $80 and must be purchased by Feb. 12 at ebenezermaxwellmansion.org.
