The Oakwell Estate in Villanova, once home to 700 trees and a stunning Tudor Revival mansion, has finally found its fate. In an exciting development, the Lower Merion School District has reached an agreement to sell the 13-acre property to the conservation nonprofit Natural Lands. This decision will see a portion of the estate used to expand the neighboring Stoneleigh Estate – a 42-acre public garden maintained by Natural Lands, free and open to the public year-round.
The journey to this resolution has been long and filled with conflict. The school district had initially acquired the property through eminent domain in 2018 with plans to clear land for athletic fields for Black Rock Middle School. However, protests from residents and the estate’s former owner led to a reconsideration of the plans.
At a recent school board meeting, directors decided to sell the subdivided property to Natural Lands and another nonprofit for approximately $12.9 million. Natural Lands will acquire 10 acres directly adjacent to Stoneleigh Estate, while the remaining 3 acres housing the Oakwell mansion will be restored by the other nonprofit for future uses in harmony with Stoneleigh.
Natural Lands President Oliver Bass expressed gratitude for the leadership of the Lower Merion School District in working towards this collaborative solution. The expansion of Stoneleigh to over 52 acres will ensure the preservation of the estate’s natural and historical treasures, including the beloved trees and mansion.
The Stoneleigh Estate, established in 1877, has a rich history and has been under the care of Natural Lands since 2016. With more than a mile of walking paths and various amenities, the garden welcomes 45,000 visitors annually.
The journey to this milestone has not been without challenges, as community opposition and legal battles had to be overcome. Yet, the sale of the Oakwell Estate to Natural Lands marks a crucial step forward in the preservation of this important area. Plans are underway to manage both properties under a conservation easement with the Lower Merion Conservancy, ensuring the protection of the landscape for future generations.
As Natural Lands embarks on developing new public spaces at the Stoneleigh Estate, we are reminded of the importance of conservation efforts in preserving our natural and historical heritage. This sale marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards enhancing an area of significant environmental and historical value.