The Historic James-Lorah Memorial Home

A Gathering Place for Bucks County Community, Culture, and History

Nestled in the heart of Doylestown.

The James-Lorah Memorial Home is a place of special significance to the VIA. Not only is it a core piece of our organization’s history and legacy – it’s a dynamic part of our future, too.

The historic building, a magnificent 17-room Victorian mansion located on Main Street in Doylestown, was the home of Sarah Maria James, a founding member of the VIA in 1895. She lived there for 85 years and bequeathed her home to our organization upon her death in 1954.

Even prior to that, the building has a unique, versatile history. It was previously a saddlery, law office, medical practice, and the birthplace of renowned archeologist Henry Chapman Mercer. In 1972, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Homes and is designated as a historic place by the Bucks County Conservancy. Now, in addition to serving as our beloved headquarters, it is also structured as a house-museum and attached event space, offering both tour and rental opportunities.

We are ready to lead the way for this historic space to reach its full potential – not just as our beloved headquarters and a historic asset, but as a place for community impact to commence.

Tour the Historic Space

Experience Bucks County history like you haven’t before.

Designated as a house-museum, the James-Lorah Memorial Home is a magnificent Victorian property that you won’t want to miss. Experience the family and community history through distinct rooms and artifacts, all while supporting the VIA. Custom group and private tours are also available.

• Music Room with an intricately carved square piano and a breathtaking stained glass window of St. Cecilia
• Primary Bedroom
• Morning Room
• Dollhouse Room
• Collection Room, featuring books dating back to the 1800s

Contact us at (215) 348-2187 or email JLMH-PEC@via-doylestown.org to learn more about our tours.

Host Your Event in a Place with History

The perfect gathering place for civic, musical, literature, and community functions.

The property also includes a versatile auditorium – the perfect venue for a range of events, spanning from community programs to business meetings to social gatherings to musical performances.

Featured amenities include:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Folding chairs
• Folding tables and card tables (6’ and 8’ available)
• State-of-the-art audio and visual system
• Grand piano
• Full kitchen
• Fully air-conditioned

Events are as much about experience as physical location. The VIA is proud to help you add an element of enriched local history to your next event.

Get in touch with us at (215) 348-2187 or email JLMH-PEC@via-doylestown.org to learn more about event and rental opportunities.

Opening Doors of Opportunity for Bucks County

An exciting future built on legacy and community.

The VIA has exciting plans in store for the James-Lorah Memorial Home – geared towards preserving its historic legacy while amplifying its expanded role in the community.

We are excited to facilitate renovations that maintain the building’s historic integrity while providing modern upgrades. Our vision is to create a space with impact, where we can host more community-focused events and programs and welcome our neighbors to experience local history here.

Keep an eye out for more exciting details and how you can support us along the way. Sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates!