John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion

The John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion was built c. 1766 by John Harris, Jr., one of the founders of Harrisburg. In 1863 it was purchased by Simon Cameron, Lincoln's first Secretary of War and later Ambassador to Russia, who transformed the Georgian house into a stylish Victorian mansion and lived there until his death in 1889. The house became the headquarters of the Historical Society of Dauphin County in 1941. Features illustrating the lives of the house's residents (1766-1929) are a large Victorian parlor, Colonial and Victorian bedrooms, spectacular Art Deco bathroom; light-filled solarium; dining room, library, office, and exhibit spaces. A large collection of furnishings and objects is on display. Tours are available Tues. through Fri. at 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00 p.m.; second Sundays at 1:00. Free parking. Group rates. Historical gardens. Publications sales. The research library and archives are open Tuesday through Friday and the second and fourth Sundays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.