Beehive Oven

For the last decade the Cheltenham Historical Commission has been working to rehabilitate the building. Under the direction of Preservation Architect, Robert M. Skaler, exterior repairs to the structure and adjacent springhouse as well as interior mechanical and electrical work are complete. In 1992, a functional beehive oven was installed in the kitchen. [Click for pre-restoration photos.]

With the gracious support of the Old York Road Gardening Society, there is a beautiful herb garden illustrative of period kitchens. (The garden is on display even when the museum isn't open, so stop by.)

Springhouse

Although the biggest milestone has been achieved, work has not ended. Watch for further restoration of the Springhouse by historic architect, Herbert Levy, with the help of Cheltenham High School Student volunteers.

The original Historic Building Report was prepared by the distinguished Architects Cope and Lipponcott. Lipponcott is a native of Cheltenham Township and one of the most famous families of the early days of the Township and the founders of Lipponcott Publishing Company. The report noted that many additions and changes have been incorporated in the building since it's early on construction in 1680.

Based upon this report the local firm of Robert Skaler, Architect, was retained to prepare drawings and specifications for the updating of the former home of the Township Manager, Harold Pike. The scope of the work included a compete heating, ventilation and airconditioning for the conversion of the residence into a museum following the recommendations of Cope and Lippincott and preserving the historical importance of the building. The heating and air-conditioning was designed and installed under this contact. The beehive oven was constructed in the course of this work, it was determined the the use of the beehive oven caused the activation of the fire alarm system.

Mr. Skaler was replaced by Leon Clemmer, Architects, who continued and completed the work of Mr. Skaler and included the archives and tool museum room in the basement, the museums on the first floor, provision of facilities for the handicapped, the apartment for the live in staff and workroom on the third floor, and included the the preservation of the Spring House, the conversion of the existing garage as a shop and meeting space, noting that the second floor of the garage can only be used for storage and the master planning of the grounds for future expansion of the grounds of the Wall House. All work was under the supervision of the Historical Commission of  Cheltenham Township. Al drawings and specifications by Mr. Clemmer are in the Archives of the Philadelphia Atheneum and the University of Pennsylvania.

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