Wyck was home to nine generations of the same Quaker family, the Wistars and the Haines, who owned and lived on this “farm” in Germantown. Today the wonderful colonial house with its noteworthy 1824 alterations by William Strickland, and historic gardens invites visitors to view not only remarkable collections, but to experience through the lives of its owners the changing character of Philadelphia.

Tours of Wyck give an overview of the history of the way of life in this family, and of Philadelphia history, using the furnishings and possessions accumulated over 300 years as illustrations. Significant 18th and 19th century furniture, ceramics and needlework bring alive the tastes and comforts of that time. Special subject tours on architecture, decorative arts, garden history and Quaker history are also easily arranged. School groups are warmly welcomed.

Wyck’s grounds include a nationally known garden of old roses (over 30 varieties) which grow in their original plan dating from the 1820’s and the original outbuildings: a smoke house, an ice house and a carriage house.