Lombardy Hall: A Glimpse into Delaware's Past

Lombardy Hall, located on Concord Pike in Wilmington, Delaware, is a significant historical landmark with a rich and varied past. Originally part of William Penn's 1682 land grant, the property was later acquired by Gunning Bedford Jr. in 1785. Bedford, a prominent figure in Delaware's history, was a signer of the U.S. Constitution and the state's first Grand Master of the Masons. The house itself, likely built around 1750, is a 2+1⁄2-story stone structure showcasing early American architecture. Bedford expanded the original three-bay house to five bays, adding a ballroom wing where he frequently entertained guests. Inside, visitors can admire original wooden paneling, cornice molding, and a Federal-style fireplace mantel. Over the years, Lombardy Hall has served various purposes. After Bedford's death in 1812, the property remained in his family until 1848. In 1889, part of the land was converted into a cemetery, and for a time, a room in the house served as a morgue. The Granite Masonic Hall Company purchased Lombardy Hall in 1967, recognizing Bedford's contributions to the Masons. The Lombardy Hall Foundation was then established in 1968 to preserve and restore the building as a colonial and Masonic museum. Today, Lombardy Hall stands as a living memorial to Gunning Bedford Jr. The museum displays colonial furnishings, Masonic artifacts, and exhibits that highlight the history of the house and its inhabitants. While visiting, take a stroll through the adjacent Lombardy Cemetery, which adds to the site's serene and reflective atmosphere.