State Rep. Mary Jo Daley who serves the 148th Legislative District has announced that the historic Highlands Mansion in Whitemarsh Township and its surrounding acreage has been transferred to the Highlands Historical Society as part of S.B. 1214, which Gov. Tom Wolf signed into law last month.

Daley has long worked on transferring the historic site with its late-18th century Georgian mansion and nine outbuildings to the Highlands Historical Society.

“Diligent work by many people who have been involved over a long period of time has paid off, as the HHS now has oversight of this wonderful property located right here in the 148th,” said Daley. “This transfer ensures the preservation of the Highlands Mansion and Gardens, allowing our community to treasure this space for years to come.”

The new law gives the Department of General Services – with the approval of the governor and the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission – authorization to grant and convey the historic Highlands Mansion and its surrounding acreage to the Highlands Historical Society for $1.

Additionally, Whitemarsh Township has acquired a conservation easement for $3 million using its Open Space Earned Income Tax Fund. This will provide HHS with funds for maintaining and upgrading the property.