408 S 10TH ST Philadelphia, PA 19147

Welcome to 408 South 10th Street, a quintessential Philadelphia colonial townhouse built in 1810 for Joseph Rusha, a local carver, and gilder. Since 1810 the house has been responsibly preserved, maintaining much of the authentic elements that were used in its original construction, while providing modern comforts such as gas forced hot air heating and central air conditioning. The first floor features tall ceilings with plaster crown moldings, hand-crafted reception doors, and grand spaces. The double parlor floor plan receives generous light from three exposures, north, east, and south, and boasts beautiful fireplaces and surrounds fashioned out of rare King of Prussia marble. The heart pine original floors are in nearly perfect condition. Also original to the house is the continuous mahogany handrail that runs up to the third floor. The center hall leads back to an exquisite urban garden with iron gates and railings that were crafted by Ned Gibby, a local artisan from Bucks County. The limestone pillars were imported from Turkey and the stone walls are made of Pennsylvania blue argillite, also to note is the beautiful 19th Century bronze fountain whose tranquil sounds will transport you from the hustle and bustle of the city to a place of calm amidst the mature plantings and moss-covered brick floors. The kitchen remains in the same room it has for over 200 years! While updated with newer cabinets and appliances it still features the original cooking fireplace, brick floors, and large windows looking onto the north garden. A large storage area offers ideal storage, a laundry area, and privacy. The second floor was slightly modified in the 1950s incorporating a full bathroom that was impeccably renovated in 2020, the main bedroom with an original fireplace and mantle, abundant closets, and a corner guest room with long views down Waverly Street. The staircase continues up to the third floor featuring original random-width white pine floors. Enjoy three exposures of light in this multi-purpose room.