January 31, 2017
Plans are beginning to take shape for the historic East Falls home of late actress Grace Kelly, purchased last September by her son, Prince Albert of Monaco.
According to People, the Georgian brick house at 3901 Henry Ave. will reopen with public events some time in 2018, although it could be sooner than that.
Prince Albert, who bought the home for $775,000, told the American weekly that the family is looking to arrange "an exchange-type program" with the Princess Grace Irish Library in Monaco. Discussions are already underway with Villanova University to coordinate an overseas extension of the library's existing series of lectures, contemporary author readings, concerts and children's activities.
The Kelly Family House in the East Falls section of Philadelphia (3901 Henry Ave.) was built by John B. Kelly Sr. Grace Kelly, actress and princess of Monaco, grew up here.
Last October, Prince Albert and other family members visited the home for the first time in years and discussed plans for the property, including a museum exhibit and establishing the house regional offices for the arts-focused Princess Grace Foundation.
Prince Albert explained to People that any programming at the house will be sensitive to residential and community concerns, meaning a year-round museum is unlikely.
In Philadelphia, the home's legacy was honored with the dedication of an official plaque in 2012.
