Philadelphia, PA-NJ (1888PressRelease)
April 26, 2008 - West Chester, PA – West Chester homeowners John and Doris Rudibaugh have enlisted the help of Pine Street Carpenters, Inc., in an expansive whole-house renovation of one of the area’s most historic homes – “Edgewood.”
Located in Birmingham Township, Edgewood was built in 1845 by Charles Sharpless on the site of Birmingham Hill, where in 1777 patriots faced British troops in the American Revolution. The residence combines Gothic Revival architecture with Quaker influences, making it stand out in a region dominated by Colonial architecture. In addition, Sharpless built the home using local serpentine stone, giving the residence a unique green hue. Sharpless eventually sold Edgewood to Philadelphian Henry Pepper, who used it as his country home. After Pepper died, his widow, Sally Norris Pepper, sold the house to the famed Biddle family. The Biddle’s added a tower to the residence which still stands today as one of Edgewood’s most striking features. In 1973, Edgewood was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
163 years have passed since construction first began at Edgewood, and today its new homeowners seek to both preserve and update the home for generations to come. The Rudibaugh’s purchased the home in December 2007, and renovations to “Edgewood” are in full swing.
Along with architect James Bradberry and designer Ron Fenstermacher, Pine Street Carpenters is spearheading the whole-house renovation of Edgewood. Renovations include exterior restorations; extensive interior structural repairs; all new electrical and mechanical systems; a new kitchen designed by Joanne Hudson Associates; a renovated sunroom and master suite; several renovated bathrooms; restoration of several fireplaces; period finishes throughout; a finished basement; and garage improvements.
“A project like this doesn’t come along every day,” says Pine Street’s Bill Dolan. “Edgewood’s unique architecture and history make it an exciting, challenging, and rewarding project. We are thrilled to be part of the history of this grand old house, helping to preserve it for future generations.”
