The History
Mercer built his storybook stone mansion without using blueprints.
Henry Chapman Mercer, an expert in prehistoric archaeology, a homespun architect and a writer of Gothic tales, built three memorable structures, including Fonthill Castle , the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works and the Mercer Museum . These historic attractions make up what’s now known as the Mercer Mile.
Each of the buildings was constructed with reinforced concrete using a technique perfected by Mercer in the early part of the 1900s.
Mercer’s collection of books, prints and Victorian engravings are preserved in this grand home, whose stark concrete exterior belies the ornate and eccentric style of the interior.
