Civic Works: Clifton Mansion

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Historic Clifton Mansion

Clifton Mansion and Clifton Park were placed on the National Register of Historic Places in September of 2007.

Friends of Clifton Mansion     Greater Baltimore History Alliance     Before and After Photos






Clifton Mansion, the renowned summer residence of philanthropist, Johns Hopkins, stands today as one of the few remaining Victorian era Italiante villas in this country.

Built as a conversion from the much smaller Federal style farmhouse at its core originally built by Henry Thompson, it is a fine example of the design of the architectural firm of Niernsee and Nielson, who also designed Camden Station adjacent to Oriole Park.

Expanded between 1841 and 1853, it features an eighty-foot tower with a commanding view of the City of Baltimore, an extensive arcade which spans the entire length of the South side and wraps around the East and West ends, a massive black walnut Grand Staircase with marble floor in its entrance hall, ornate hand painted walls and ceilings, and intricate plasterwork and woodwork, some of which remains from the original structure.

The City of Baltimore purchased Clifton Mansion and its grounds in 1895 from Johns Hopkins University. It has been put to many uses ever since, including a headquarters for the Department of Recreation and Parks, and the clubhouse for the golf course. Since 1993, Civic Works, has leased Clifton Mansion from the city for use as its headquarters. The mansion has seen many renovations over the years, some of which have restored its features, while others have destroyed some.

Civic Works has been actively raising funds to further the restoration since 1994. The goals are to fully restore the main floor and Tower to their 1852 appearance and to stabilize the entire structure while Civic Works maintains offices on the second and third floors.

If you would like to help Clifton Mansion recover its Victorian glory, please write a check to Civic Works Mansion Fund. Civic Works is a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization. Donations are tax-deductible.

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