Tucked along one of Old City's storybook alleys lies a home with not only remarkable colonial beauty but a direct link to one of Philadelphia’s most iconic figures—Benjamin Franklin. Originally built in the 1740s by master carpenter Benjamin Loxley, this home still echoes the very essence of early American design. According to local lore, the key Franklin used in his legendary kite experiment may have been the one to this very home’s door.
The house, perched on the quaint and storied Loxley Court, is the only one that has preserved its original colonial layout. And while its façade remains rooted in history—complete with traditional shutters, brickwork, and a sloped roof—the interiors deliver an artful blend of old and new.
Step inside and you’re greeted by a bright, refined living space. A fireplace framed by a rich green feature wall draws the eye, while exposed wooden beams and wide-plank hardwood floors maintain the home's historical authenticity. Adjacent to the living room, the dining area and kitchen open to views of the cobblestone courtyard—a romantic outdoor space illuminated by gas lanterns after dusk.
The kitchen has been tastefully updated with marble countertops, stainless steel appliances, and an eat-in bar, offering both form and function. Step outside to the two-tiered private garden oasis, where brick and stone paths wind through lush greenery, leading to a built-in fire pit and seating area. It’s the perfect retreat for intimate evenings or elevated entertaining, all enclosed by 15-foot walls for unmatched privacy.
Upstairs, the master bedroom is an elegant sanctuary, thoughtfully styled with sky-blue hues, cherry hardwood floors, and a striped ceiling. An original brick fireplace anchors the room, while the nearby bathroom features a marble shower stall and pedestal sink under soft vanity lighting. A cozy second bedroom on the third floor offers built-in shelves and charming views.
The basement includes a second full bathroom and offers versatile space for a studio, gym, or wine cellar.
Located in the heart of Old City, this home offers serenity, style, and storied significance—just steps from the best of Philadelphia's dining, shopping, culture, and the Delaware waterfront. It’s not just a place to live, it’s a place to belong in history.
Ready to live in a piece of Philadelphia’s past with all the luxuries of today? Contact Sean Elstone to schedule your private showing and secure one-of-a-kind homes before it disappears.
Photo credits: Kurfiss Sotheby’s International Realty
