News Release

Historic guardhouse restored in Washington Square

Restored guardhouse in Washington Square

NPS photo

News Release Date: October 18, 2024

Contact: Andrew McDougall, 215-435-4372

PHILADELPHIA - The National Parks of Philadelphia unveiled a newly restored guardhouse in the southeast quadrant of Washington Square. Restoration work included a new roof, exterior wood repairs, and exterior painting. The project was made possible by funds donated by the Independence Historical Trust, philanthropic partner to the National Parks of Philadelphia, and the Washington Square Committee of the Society Hill Preservation Foundation.

“We are thankful for the donations by the park’s partners, which made it possible to restore this unique piece of Philadelphia history,” said Steve Sims, park superintendent. “Projects like this one are a great example of partners working together to make a difference in Philadelphia’s national parks and improving experiences for visitors and locals, alike,” said Tom Caramanico, executive director of Independence Historical Trust. 

Over 100 guardhouses were constructed for the Fairmount Park Guard, a 500-man strong police force that patrolled over 2,000 acres of the largest urban park in the United States for over a century, mostly on horseback. By the early 1970s, it became too expensive to maintain a separate police force for Fairmont Park and the Guard was incorporated into the Philadelphia Police Department. Unfortunately, many of the guardhouses fell into disrepair and were demolished. Today, less than twenty survive and two of them are in Washington Square.

The southeast guardhouse was constructed in the 1890s without a permanent foundation so it could be easily moved. While its original location is unknown, it is believed to have been moved to Washington Square in the 1950s. The National Park Service assumed responsibility for Washington Square from the City of Philadelphia in 2005.

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The National Parks of Philadelphia are prepared to welcome the world for the 250^th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. For more information on our upcoming programs, visit our website or follow us on social media on Instagram, Facebook and X.