Brandywine Hundred in Claymont in New Castle County, Delaware — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

The Patio

Photographed by Pete Skillman, November 5, 2024

1. The Patio Marker

Inscription. This was once the estate of prominent financier and industrialist John Raskob and his wife, Helena Springer Green and family. Constructed 1916-1918, it is considered to be one of the finest examples of neo-Renaissance architecture in America. Known as "The Patio," it was designed by the firm of McClure and Harper, also the designers of the famous greenhouse at Longwood Gardens. The Patio's architectural details document the firm's training and expertise in Italian Renaissance style. It is largely modeled on the Ducal Palace in Urbino, Italy, with additional elements reflecting other Italian Renaissance palaces that Raskob had visited. Two of the Patio's most interesting features are its marble fountain carved with depictions of the Raskob children at play, and a stained glass skylight, designed by brothers Charles and Henry Keck. This has been home to Archmere Academy since its founding in 1932. The Patio's architectural and historical significance was recognized in 2007, when it achieved National Register of Historic Places status.

Erected 2008 by Delaware Public Archives. (Marker Number NC-177.)

Topics and series.

Paid Advertisement

Click or scan to see
this page online

This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Education. In addition, it is included in the Delaware Public Archives, and the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) series lists. A significant historical year for this entry is 1916.

Location. 39° 48.142′ N, 75° 27.236′ W. Marker is in Claymont, Delaware, in New Castle County. It is in Brandywine Hundred. It can be reached from Philadelphia Pike. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 3600 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont DE 19703, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in Greater Wilmington and in Greater Philadelphia.

It is also in the American Mid-Atlantic

and on the Delmarva Peninsula.

Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region,

North America,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Netherland

and also one of the original Thirteen Colonies.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Archmere (about 700 feet away, measured in a direct line); Claymont Stone School (approx.

The Patio Marker - wide view image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Pete Skillman, November 5, 2024

2. The Patio Marker - wide view

0.2 miles away); The Darley House (approx. 0.2 miles away); Church of the Ascension (approx. 0.2 miles away); In Honor of All Veterans (approx. 0.3 miles away); World War II Memorial (approx. half a mile away); Old Claymont High School (approx. 0.6 miles away); Mother Catherine Rosarii (approx. 0.6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Claymont.

Also see . . .
1. Archmere Academy. The marker is located on the grounds of the Archmere Academy. (Submitted on November 5, 2024, by Pete Skillman of Townsend, Delaware.)

2. Archmere - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form.

The Patio at Archmere is significant under National Register Criterion B at the national level of significance, with the period of significance being 1916-1932 as the Italian Palazzo style home of early 20th century financier John Jakob Raskob. Although not as well known as others of his period, Raskob’s career included the following nationally significant activities: participated in the reorganization of the du Pont Company as financial officer and assistant to Pierre S. du Pont; he shaped the General Motors Corporation,
Photographed by Pete Skillman, November 5, 2024

3. The Patio Marker - view of the front of the house
both as company treasurer, and as founder of the General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC) that provided the financing for dealers and individuals to purchase automobiles which allowed for the expansive growth of the automobile industry through providing the public access to large quantities of cars; financed the construction of the Empire State Building in New York City (NHL 1985); and, was active in national politics by promoting the repeal of prohibition and serving as Democratic National Committee Chairman supporting the campaign of Al Smith for President against Herbert Hoover in 1928.The Patio at Archmere is the best place to recognize the national importance of this man because it was his family’s primary residence during his period of significance and the place he considered home. He used the Patio as an emblem of his wealth and status.

(Submitted on November 26, 2024, by Pete Skillman of Townsend, Delaware.)

Credits. This page was last revised on May 28, 2026. It was originally submitted on November 5, 2024, by Pete Skillman of Townsend, Delaware. This page has been viewed 296 times since then and 30 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on November 5, 2024, by Pete Skillman of Townsend, Delaware.