Cheltenham Township Police are searching for suspects wanted in connection with break-ins at Lynnewood Hall Mansion

ELKINS PARK, Pa. (WPVI) — Cheltenham Township police are hoping the public can help them identify two men suspected in three burglaries at the historic Lynnewood Hall Mansion in Elkins Park since Sept. 22.

“They’re not necessarily about damaging the building itself or stealing historical artifacts, but rather they’re about stealing things from our offices,” said site manager Tyler Schumacher.

The stolen items and damage are estimated at more than $2,000.

Schumacher said each break-in occurred between 3 and 4 a.m

“It’s sad because we’re a nonprofit, so we have to raise everything, all the money we spend on the building,” Schumacher said.

In recent years the property was purchased by the Lynnewood Hall Preservation Foundation and will one day be open to the public. Extensive restoration work is currently underway on the previously abandoned property, which dates back to 1899.

“The goal here is we want to reopen the house as a community space, cultural center and art museum. We will host some events, but that will not be our bread and butter. We want to make it a place for community.” “Gather together to learn about Lynnewood Hall’s architecture and history,” Schumacher said.

“There is no other building of this grandeur and grandeur in this country that has been abandoned for so many years and left in an unrestored condition. That’s why there are so many opportunities to learn in this place.”

The property is more than 30 acres and is surrounded by more than a mile of fence. Therefore, catching the suspects is a challenge.

“Myself and the police were at the property for the third time and unfortunately we still managed to escape. That night we saw them jump over the fence, so we know where they’re probably coming from,” Schumacher said.

The men appeared to be entering and exiting the property in the area of ​​Spring Ave and Dixon Lane, police said.

Before the property was purchased by the nonprofit, trespassers and urban explorers were not uncommon, but that stopped after they took over the property, according to Schumacher. He characterizes these recent events as criminal activity.

“There is one thing people need to know: Lynnewood Hall is no longer abandoned. It is currently owned by a non-profit organization, there are people who work there every day and we have a robust security system,” Schumacher said.

If you have any information about the break-ins, contact Cheltenham Borough Police.