Historic Hohenadel House and brewery in East Falls reopens for a night

Once the home of a family of brewers, one can imagine the days when the lights and sounds of joyful commotion poured out the windows of the Hohenadel House on Indian Queen Lane in East Falls.

Those days are long gone after the 19th century home was left vacant for many years, falling deeper and deeper into disrepair.

But on Saturday evening, for the first time in several years, the Hohenadel Mansion lit up once again.

New owners Felicite Moorman and Sean Hawley, who are embarking on an over $500,000 historic restoration of the property threw a neighborhood-wide celebration in collaboration with the East Falls Historical Society to commemorate the past and look towards the future.

“Wow. We’re still kind of spinning,” said Carolyn Fillmore after the evening’s event.

Carolyn and her husband Steve Fillmore, president of EFHS, have been instrumental in getting the word out about the Hohenadel House and all things historic in East Falls through their website.

The night included the revival of Hohenadel’s historic Hohenadel Lager, brewed by noted homebrewer Tom Coughlin; a live performance by local big band legend Harry Prime; a display of artifacts and memorabilia; and the opportunity to get up close and personal with the 19th century architectural beauty. 

“We did not expect to generate such a buzz,” Fillmore said, “but we are so happy.”

The event raised over $1,000 for the East Falls Historical Society, which is looking for a permanent home for its Grace Kelly collection.

“I consider the event a huge success,” said Moorman. She and her family have been living in a third floor apartment throughout the house’s renovations and enjoyed a chance to experience their home to its almost-full potential.

With phase one of the Hohenadel Mansion’s renovation almost complete, contractor Mike Labetti and  histeam will soon be moving into phase two — the exterior.