The Bell House in Baguio City is a historic structure from the American colonial period, that has been meticulously preserved and transformed into a museum.
Set amidst picturesque gardens and cultural landmarks, it offers visitors a look into a significant chapter of Philippine history during the American colonial era.
Situated in the Historical Core of Camp John Hay, this house was constructed in 1903 for General J. Franklin Bell, who was the Commanding General of the Philippine Department of the United States Army at the time. It served as his official vacation residence and played a significant role in transforming Camp John Hay as a key military retreat during the Philippine-American War.
Camp John Hay was established by the U.S. armed forces in the early 1900s as a rest and recreation facility for American soldiers. The camp’s location in the cooler climate of Baguio provided a more pleasant environment for troops compared to the sweltering heat of the lowlands.
Following General Bell’s tenure, the house and the rest of Camp John Hay continued to be utilized by American military personnel. During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, the camp was bombed and seized by the Japanese army, but was later reclaimed by the U.S. Army in 1945.
In 1991, the facility was handed over to the Philippine government and transformed into a leisure and tourist site. The John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) now oversees the area, including the Bell House, which is part of the Historical Core that preserves the original charm of Camp John Hay.
Today, this vintage American-style house has been converted into a museum accessible to the public, featuring period furniture, historical artifacts, and insights into colonial-era lifestyle while preserving its American colonial architectural style.
The house is conveniently located near several attractions such as the Bell Amphitheatre, a beautifully landscaped sunken garden adjacent to the house; the Cemetery of Negativism, an unconventional “cemetery” where negative thoughts and attitudes are symbolically buried; and History Trail, a nature path with informative boards detailing the history of Camp John Hay.
Also within the vicinity can be found the mini Butterfly Sanctuary, which offers a peaceful and educational opportunity to observe a variety of butterfly species amidst lush gardens and carefully designed habitats; along with the Secret Garden, which showcases native flowers, plants, and trees, providing a serene setting for nature lovers.
A visit to Bell House not only offers a chance to learn about history but also serves as a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it an essential destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore the wide variety of attractions that Baguio has to offer.