The Morris House took its present name and part of its fame from the generations of Morrises who occupied it for one hundred and twenty years. It won a reputation on its own as one of the finest remaining examples of colonial residential architecture in Philadelphia.

The Morris House, built in 1787, is by far the most handsome brick residence in the city true to its original design. Although construction did not begin until after the struggle for American Independence had been won, it is pre-Revolutionary in character and colonial in style throughout. The elegance and distinction of the facade is unexcelled in early American city architecture.

The year 1790 opened Philadelphia's most brilliant decade as the first capital of the United States. In those days, the house and its people saw the great man of the time, Thomas Jefferson, returning from an evening stroll to his home on High Street (now Market) near Eighth, only three blocks away. Washington also drove past in his cream colored French coach determined to set a precedence of dignity in the new office as President of the United States The Morris family contributed in many substantial ways to Philadelphia history.

The original Anthony Morris, settling in Penn's "green country towne" in 1685, became the Mayor of the city. Samuel Morris was the founder of the Gloucester Fox Hunting Club. Luke Wistar Morris a prominent and very successful manufacturer, was his son. In 1914 the Morrises restored the north and south sides of the house to their original glory. After tearing down an adjoining house, the reclaimed land was added to the spectacular garden area. To this day except for minor changes, the architecture of the house has not been altered.

Today the Morris House at 225 South Eight Street is a window into the colonial past. It has become a landmark to be visited, and appreciated, like the many other historical gems that are tucked away in the many neighborhoods of Philadelphia. The graceful old colonial house that has seen the making of so much history has itself become a part of history.