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History
St.
Francis Country House was established by the Archdiocese of
Philadelphia as an expression of its religious and
charitable apostolate. We are guided by Catholic values
which respect human life and human dignity as we minister to
the spiritual and corporal needs of those persons in our
care. Underpinning the care and treatment of our residents
is the teaching of the Catholic Church that every person is
created in the image of God. We recognize the individuality
of each resident and staff member. It is our goal to serve
God through service to our residents and our community.
The property on which St. Francis Country House is situated was once owned by John Bartram, the colonial-American botanist, and was surrounded by luxuriant shade trees. Since 1913, St. Francis Country House has had a tradition of excellence in quality, compassionate care. Founded as a fifteen bed home to provide free care of new mothers convalescing after childbirth, St. Francis Country House's evolution has included the construction of a 120 bed wing in 1948 and an additional wing of 104 beds in 1954. This building houses a magnificent Chapel, with ten historically important stained glass windows. In 1978 the McShain Pavilion added 90 beds, bringing the total bed complement to date to 273. The St. Francis Country House Women's Auxiliary was chartered in 1914 and continues to spearhead ongoing renovations and facility improvements.
