J. Frederick Thompson Mansion
Constructed in 1866 by John Shipe, the “J. Frederick Thompson Mansion” served as the private residence of Frederick Thompson. Frederick also owned another property in the city, where he operated his drugstore. This second property was located in a 4-story office building on the northwest corner of Bank and Northampton streets, which is the present-day location of Three OAK Steakhouse.
In 1916, the Thompson Mansion was purchased by Grace Bixler, the stepdaughter of silk mill magnate Herman Simon.
During her ownership, the once-private residence underwent a transformation and was converted into an apartment building. It came to be known as "The Townley," and it is believed that the name "Townley" was derived from a family surname.
During the 1920s, the building changed hands once again when it was purchased by Dr. Carl Gaines. Dr. Gaines used the ground floor of the building for his medical practice, and he continued to do so for nearly half a century, until 1975.
The property fell on hard times for the next two decades, until 1995 when it was purchased by a recent Lafayette graduate. The apartments were renovated, leaving historical details intact, though in 2003 the owner was forced to sell due to mortgage foreclosure.
Following its sale, the building continued to serve as an apartment complex until 2012. However, after this point, the building remained vacant, and its upkeep began to deteriorate. Numerous citations and code violations went unaddressed, causing the property to fall into disrepair, inching perilously close to being included on the city's list of blighted properties.
In 2018 the property, overgrown, dilapidated and lying in near ruin, was purchased by our team with the intention of giving it a new life.
The Townley; stoic, refined, and still standing strong despite years of neglect, deserved to have her history honored. For nearly two and a half years, we devoted ourselves to this endeavor, pouring our dedication into its restoration.
As you step through the doors of Townley House, you're not only entering a world of luxury and comfort but also stepping back in time to a place where history lives and breathes.
THE STORY OF EASTON: FROM COLONIAL ROOTS TO MODERN CHARMS.
Easton, Pennsylvania, boasts a storied past dating back to its founding in 1752. It played a pivotal role in the birth of our nation, with notable moments such as the reading of the Declaration of Independence in the town square on July 8, 1776. Our historic building, once known as the J. Frederick Thompson Mansion, has witnessed over a century of Easton's evolution, transitioning from a private residence to an apartment building and now into the elegant boutique hotel that is Townley House.
CENTRE SQUARE
Centre Square in Easton has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Originally planned in 1752 by Thomas Penn, son of Pennsylvania's founder William Penn, the square was designed as the central point of the city. Over the years, it has served as a marketplace, a site for important civic events, and a hub for social and commercial activities. The square has witnessed various historical events, including the public reading of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. In the 19th century, Centre Square became a focal point for transportation, connecting Easton to other regions. Today, it stands as a vibrant and picturesque area, preserving its historical charm while accommodating modern amenities and activities, making it a cherished landmark in Easton.
As you explore the city's historic district, you'll encounter charming colonial architecture, vibrant cultural sites, and a deep sense of heritage that permeates the streets. We invite you to embark on a journey through time, from the early days of Easton's settlement to its thriving present-day culture. Experience the living history of Easton and make Townley House your gateway to this remarkable journey through the ages.
