The Bell House: A Fine, Classic Piece of American Architecture



Timeless. Classic. Beauty.



These three words can stand alone as three independent sentences; otherwise, can also be dovetailed to create a strong superlative description of the Bell House here at Camp John Hay, Baguio City.

Being surrounded by a healthy green environment, this classic, magnificent architecture has been preserved, well-maintained and that is why it's still functional after all the rusting effects of time. Historically, it was the official vacation house of the Commanding General of the Philippines, Gen. John Franklin Bell during the early 1900's. Named after him, this house has now become today's living book of history to all who loves commemorating the complex drama of the past American colonialism.

Enough for that little heck of history, let's go and take some peek:




About the seal: Flanked by the sealed statues of the Philippine President Manuel Luis Quezon and US President Abraham Lincoln, this seal was hung on the monument of Philippine-American friendship at the garden fronting the Main Club.

Each corner of this house maintains just one all-American theme. The soft toned blue, green and white combination of the wall colors, the warm feeling brought by the woody, Charleston-style furnitures and the contrasting dim light produced by traditional yet elegant chandeliersall contributing to create a symmetric arrangement of a classic, iconic interior design.











Verandas is also one great distinguishing mark an American type of architecture has.



The Bell House has a wide and long veranda. I could have just imagined how these military officers gathered in this place during some special occasions in the evening. Hmm.



Of course, the veranda wasn't only a socializing hot spot back then. During the day, you'll surely don't want to miss this view of lush greeneries of pine trees and colorful blossoms.

The Amphitheater



This short trip here at the Bell House in Camp John Hay could not be as thrilling as any of the adrenaline-triggering activities that most of the young people enjoy. However, sometimes we seek for a place where we could chill out, enjoy the silence or maybe wanted to learn a bit about historical facts. Without any doubt then, I recommend this place for you.


The Bell House

Location: Historical Core at Camp John Hay, Baguio City,
Philippines
Entrance Fee: P60



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