Jason Moody PhotographyWe Welcome Your Involvement
Appleford is managed by a volunteer committee comprised of property neighbors, residents of Lower Merion Township, and other dedicated individuals who are passionate about keeping the house and grounds running and looking beautiful.
Appleford is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and since 1974, The Appleford Committee has raised funds annually, through events and financial contributions, to support the preservation of the historic house and its grounds. The Appleford Committee has sub-committees focusing on the house, grounds, events, membership, tours, and other areas.
The Appleford Committee also hosts a holiday party in early December as a “thank you” for those individuals who have made contributions to Appleford’s annual giving campaign at the Friend level or above ($200+).
Other events that the Committee has hosted on a rotating basis are lectures, neighborhood Open Houses, house and garden tours, and the like. If you would like to get involved with Appleford, please send an email with your name, address, and telephone number to rsvpapplefordcommittee@gmail.com
Annual Giving
Your financial support of the preservation of Appleford is welcomed at one of the following defined levels or in an amount of your choice. All gifts are fully tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Benefactor: $2,500 or more
Benefits: weeknight event and 4 tickets each to the Summer Solstice Party and the Appleford Holiday Party.
Patron: $1,000 – $2,499
Benefits: weeknight event and 2 tickets each to the Summer Solstice Party and the Appleford Holiday Party.
Supporter: $500 – $999
Benefits: 2 tickets to the Appleford Holiday Party.
Friend: $200 – $499
Benefits: 2 tickets to the Appleford Holiday Party.
Donor: $100 – $199
Benefactors and Patrons are further entitled to one complimentary use of Appleford for an event of up to 50 people on Monday-Thursday (excludes catering, rentals, & insurance).
Checks payable to The Appleford Committee may be mailed to: 770 Mt Moro Rd, Villanova, PA 19085
Renovation of the Rose Garden: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Present
The Rose Garden at Appleford has undergone a thoughtful transformation, with the goal of revitalizing this cherished space while preserving its historic charm. The new design embraces the original character and scale of the garden, blending historic sensitivity with modern functionality for its role as a public garden.
In keeping with the spirit of the original design, the renovation retains the layout of the rose beds and the placement of the central water feature. Elements such as brick paths, stone walls, treads, capstones, and updated lighting preserve the garden’s timeless aesthetic. A new, elegant single flight of steps has replaced the previously narrow and awkward sets, creating a graceful setting perfect for gatherings and photographs. The water from the historic rill is now highlighted with blue flagstone set within the brick paving, adding a touch of elegance and continuity.
To enhance accessibility and public use, the degraded lawn paths have been reconstructed with brick, and ramps have been introduced to ensure easy circulation within the Rose Garden and between the Rose Garden and the Walled Garden, which connects to the mansion. All materials were carefully sourced to match existing conditions and reflect the design precedents established by Thomas Sears.
The new plantings restore the essence of an English Rose Garden, a hallmark of mainline estate gardens at the turn of the century. Herbaceous plants complement the roses, many of which were carefully lifted, stored, and are now ready to be replanted. The new selections honor the legacy of Mrs. Parsons and her original vision for the garden.
This rejuvenated Rose Garden is a harmonious blend of history and modernity, ensuring its enduring beauty for generations to come.
Please check out our website for up-coming events at Appleford. Please consider attending our Summer Solstice Party with all proceeds going to benefit Appleford present and future preservation projects.
Appleford was pleased to sponsor the Lower Merion and Narbeth Go for the Green Awards on May 12. We were also a proud recipient of one of the awards for our involvement in increasing our commitment to the environment. Appleford won the award for Commercial Enterprise which is for ongoing initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to environmental conservation, preservation and accessibility, while ensuring the cultural landmark remains vibrant for future generations.
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As a non-profit, Appleford depends on public support to maintain the historic house and open space surrounding it.
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