Hibernia
PO Box 124
Wagontown, PA 19376
(610) 384-0290 • 344-6415 (Chester Co. Parks Dept.)
Official Website

Operated by the Chester County Department of Parks and Recreation, Hibernia is a beautiful mansion which evolved in both size and elegance as it was home to several generations of prominent families.

The first deed to the land can be traced back to 1765, when its 162 acres were owned by James Guthrie. In the late 1700's Samuel Downing built the first forge on the property to convert pig iron into bar iron. Charles Brooke purchased the property in 1821 and became its most prosperous ironmaster. By 1862 the acreage had grown to 1,594.

Charles Brooke probably built the mansion, and the entire property came into the hands of Philadelphia real estate lawyer Colonel Franklin Swayne by 1895. He developed several projects such as farming, sheep raising, and ice-selling, but none were financially successful. Nevertheless, Hibernia today reflects Swayne's elegant lifestyle.

Today this beautiful mansion sits near the Brandywine River amidst some 800 acres of parkland. Passing between two massive lion heads at Hibernia's entrance, visitors encounter the house's many grand features. Much of the furniture belonged to Swayne, including several of the rugs, the pianos, wall decorations, paintings, and other items.

The Guided Tour is educational and is available for individuals or groups. Throughout the season Chester County Parks holds a number of special events here and at its other facilities.