Each year our family gathers friends around for a party at Andalusia, the home of Nicholas Biddle and Jane Craig, to celebrate in the way the house was meant for. The home was put into a foundation in the early 80s, so this offers a dual enjoyment. First, we get to have a very fun evening. Next, we raise money to preserve the house and gardens, and further the mission of the Foundation to maintain the property, collection, archive, and garden as an educational resource.
Ed Biddle, Pippa's dad, in a dapper double-breasted.
Andalusia came into the Biddle family by marriage. When Nicholas Biddle married Jane Craig (1793-1856), it was her family home that they moved into. Biddle was passionate about Greek Revival architecture, and it was his choice to add the impressive facade facing the Delaware river, along with other architectural additions and details to increase the 'grandeur' of the home. Biddle's passion for this particular type of architecture ultimately influenced America as we see it today. Many bank and government buildings echo the same Greek Revival aesthetic and it's no surprise as Biddle was the third and final president of the Second Bank of the United States, which served as the federal reserve until the creation of the federal reserve, from 1823 until 1836.
A perfect garden moment
For over two centuries, the Biddles called Andalusia home — and we still do. While, we don't live in the main house anymore, cousins live in an adjacent 'cottage' and we gather at the house and grounds a few days each year. The Cabaret is certainly a favorite!
