The Story of Aldie

The Story of Aldie

Limited edition book celebrates Heritage Conservancy’s 25th anniversary of restoration and occupation of historic Aldie Mansion

The stately 1927 Aldie Mansion began its history as the private residence of William and Martha Mercer. An ode to the English Tudor manor, it evokes a time in America when craftsmanship reached an art form. After Martha Mercer’s death in 1960, the mansion changed hands several times, and by the mid 1970s it was undergoing rapid deterioration. In 1987, Heritage Conservancy was given the opportunity to purchase the building for only $1, provided they could raise the funds necessary to restore it to its original splendor. 25 years later, the mansion is a beautiful and historic Bucks County landmark, community gathering space, and home to Heritage Conservancy.

Former Heritage Conservancy president Jeffrey L. Marshall, author of several historically themed books including Barns of Bucks County and Farmhouses of Bucks County, is the lead writer of The Story of Aldie, along with co-author and editor J.C. Berger of Doylestown. 8.5 inches tall and 11 inches wide, with 80+ pages of gorgeous historic and current photos, The Story of Aldie highlights the Mercer family history. Construction of the current mansion and the building’s architectural elements are explored, incorporating never before seen photos of original architectural design sketches. The changes in ownership after Martha Mercer’s death are described, as well as the acquisition and restoration of the building by Heritage Conservancy.

“Coming to work at Aldie Mansion for the last twenty-five years has been a tremendous treat. Seeing a building virtually return from ruin and become a thriving workspace and revered show place has been a testament to the vision of a generation of Heritage Conservancy board members, volunteers, and staff,” said President of Heritage Conservancy, Jeffrey L. Marshall. “It’s also a testimony to the original architectural and artistic vision of the Mercer family. This book is an effort to share our hidden treasure with a broader audience.”

Email info@heritageconservancy.org to order your copy today for only $39.95!

The book is also available for purchase at Aldie Mansion, 85 Old Dublin Pike, Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Proceeds from book sales go towards the upkeep and ongoing renovations of the mansion.