Peirce-duPont House

Joshua Peirce, a Quaker farmer, built the section of the brick house with the covered porch in 1730 (the porch dates from 1824). Successive generations of the Peirce family enlarged the modest farmhouse during the nearly two centuries it remained in their possession.

It was 1906 when Pierre S. du Pont purchased the property to save the amazing trees that were about to be harvested for timber. He expanded the dwelling in 1909, and again in 1914, to serve as his country home and first conservatory. The house was opened to the public in 1976 and now contains the Longwood Heritage Exhibit, a comprehensive collection of historic photos, artifacts, home movies, and video that tells the story of the stewards of the land who preserved and developed the property. 

As you stand in front of the Peirce-du Pont House, take note of the two large trees less than 10 feet apart (circa 1798) down the grassy slope toward the Flower Garden Walk. These trees, known as a ginkgo and yellow cucumber magnolia, amaze visitors throughout the seasons. The yellow cucumber magnolia is the largest known specimen in the country.

Noteworthy plants: ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), yellow cucumber magnolia (Magnolia acuminata var. subcordata), Kentucky coffee-tree (Gymnocladus dioicus)