john harris-simon cameron mansion

This house is just amazing! The rooms are furnished with period items; pictures, piano, china, furniture. Walking into this house is like stepping back in time.

So much history in our City of Harrisburg. John Harris gravesite is across the street in a small family cemetery.

I lived in Harrisburg and somehow never visited until last fall. The house is beautiful and contains many interesting artifacts. The tour guide seemed quite knowledgeable but a question regarding the ethics of Simon Cameron was answered in opposition to what information that was printed at the museum. Overall, a great way to spend an hour or so.

Great colonial era home with much history. The location is right by the river so it is shaded and lovely. This would be a good place for a special event like a wedding. Hours of operation are limited so check before you go if want to explore or tour in depth.

This great stone mansion was built in 1766 by John Harris, Jr, the son of the founder of Harrisburg, who lived in the area and operated a ferry across the river. It had a number of owners, eventually owned by Simon Cameron, who was a US senator from PA, Lincoln's secretary of war and then Ambassador to Russia. He renovated and added to house making it a grand manor and brought many items back with him from his trips to Europe.The house is presently owned by the Historical Society of Dauphin county. In the home are some items from Harris--a clock and Chippendale chairs, as well as items from Simon Cameron, especially his gigantic mirrors that were so large the floor had to be dropped to accommodate them. The house also serves as a museum for other artifacts and historical items that the Society has received. We went on Smithsonian Museum Day--which allowed for free admittance. We had an interesting hour tour learning about the house and much Harrisburg history. A worthwhile stop, especially if you are interested in US history.