This gorgeous house was started in 1722, by the then provincial governor, Sir William Keith. It was then called 'Fountain Low' because of the abundance of natural springs on the property. Unfortunately,not long after his lovely home was finished, Sir Keith fell out with the Penns and was forced to give up his governorship. In 1739 it was purchased by Dr. Thomas Graeme, who was married to Ann Diggs, the governor's stepdaughter. He wanted to use it as a summer residence.

Dr. Graeme entertained in a way that refelected his position in society, and the estate was the scene of many elaborate parties. When the good doctor died, the estate was left to his daughter, Elizabeth. Elizabeth was very educated and refined, and held many literary gatherings at the home. Elizabeth was also very unlucky.

She fell in love with William Franklin (son of the famous Benjamin), but the romance ended bitterly. She then married a Scottish man named Henry Hugh Fergusson, a man who brought no wealth to the marriage and even more bad luck. He openly declared his support for the British during the Revolution and helped the British troops during the occupation of Philadelphia. When the British troops left after the surrender, they took Fergusson with them. Elizabeth never saw him again.

Of course, the property was seized by the Amnericans as was all property of traitors, and its furnishings were sold at public auctions. Elizabeth had managed to hold on to some influential and wealthy friends,and they helped her get her home back. Her luck didn't last. In 1791, deeply in debt, she was forced to sell the property. It was bought by Dr. William Smith, who was related to her by marriage.

But did she leave her home forever? Some say her ghost is seen walking by the pond on the grounds of the mansion. She has also been sighted by the big tree, inside the house, and on the balcony. Her presence has also been linked to sudden smells of lilac in the house and the sound of a spinning wheel going. Oddly enough, some of the sightings have been of Elizabeth and Henry (Hugh) sitting or walking together - as they were not in life.