Cheltenham Township will celebrate its roots this Sunday with a Founders Day Celebration at the historic Elkins Estate in Elkins Park.
The event takes place Sunday, March 8 from 4 to 7 PM and invites residents to step inside one of Montgomery County’s most remarkable Gilded Age estates while learning more about the township’s early history.
Built in the late 1890s for industrialist William L. Elkins, the estate reflects the wealth and architectural ambition of the era. Designed by prominent architect Horace Trumbauer, the property features grand rooms, ornate interiors, and sweeping grounds that once served as a private retreat for one of Philadelphia’s most influential business families.
During the celebration, guests will have the opportunity to tour the mansion and its grounds, enjoy live music inspired by the Gilded Age, and take part in a cocktail reception inside the estate. Township leaders and community representatives will also share brief remarks about Cheltenham’s history and the role the township played in the region’s development.
The evening is part of Cheltenham Celebrates America 250, a year-long series of programs and events highlighting the township’s place in the story of the United States as the country approaches its 250th anniversary.
Founders Day offers a rare chance to experience Elkins Estate up close while gathering with neighbors and local leaders. The estate has undergone significant restoration in recent years and now serves as a venue for events, celebrations, and community gatherings.
Tickets are required for the event, and proceeds help support Cheltenham Township Parks and Recreation programming.
For residents who appreciate local history, architecture, and community tradition, this Sunday evening offers a memorable way to celebrate Cheltenham’s past while looking ahead to the future.
