To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Historical Commission is spotlighting buildings or sites which existed in 1776. All are listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places. Check back for another featured property and visit our Instagram page (@phlplandevelop) for historic images of this site and others in the series under the hashtag #PRHP1776

In Philadelphia’s Germantown neighborhood, the historic Michael Billmeyer House at 6505 and 6507 Germantown Avenue has witnessed centuries of American history. Built in 1727 by Hans George Bensell, the house began as a single-family home. Its sturdy construction and prime location on what was then known simply as “Main Street” placed it at the heart of Revolutionary activity. During the Battle of Germantown on October 4, 1777, the home was owned by widow Elizabeth Deshler and occupied by her family.

Washington’s Visit During the Battle

During that battle on October 4, 1777, General George Washington stopped in front of the house. American troops were struggling to fight the British, who had taken shelter in the nearby Chew Mansion (Cliveden). With the air filled with smoke and fog, Washington stepped up onto a horse block in front of the house to get a better view of the situation through his telescope. After discussing with his officers, he realized they couldn’t defeat the British there and ordered a retreat.

From Printing Press to Preservation

In 1789, after the war, the house was purchased by Michael Billmeyer, a printer known for producing newspapers, almanacs, and serving as the German-language printer for the Pennsylvania Assembly. He lived there until his death in 1837. The house stayed in the family for many years, and during that time it was changed from a single home into two separate units.

Today, the Billmeyer House is a reminder of Germantown’s rich history—from its colonial roots and Revolutionary War connections to its role in early American publishing. Its continued preservation shows how much the community values its past and the people who helped shape it.

The plaque on the front steps, installed in 1901, reads: “In front of this House during the Battle of Germantown Oct. 4th, 1777, Washington conferred with his Officers, ordered the attack upon the Chew House and directed the Battle. This House bears the marks of bullets and of attempts to fire it made by the British. In 1789 it became the home of Michael Billmeyer, the Printer.”

The property was listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places in 1956.