A Storied Past: The Mansion’s Legacy
Nestled on Main Street in the heart of Historic Medford Village, The Center stands as both a testament to the area’s rich heritage and a beacon of wellness for the community. Housed within a stately three-story Victorian mansion built in 1897, The Center is far more than a physical space, it is a living, breathing community dedicated to holistic healing, personal growth, and meaningful connection. Easily accessible from Route 70, this beloved landmark welcomes all who seek solace, renewal, and transformation.
The mansion itself has weathered the passage of time with grace and dignity. Built in the late nineteenth century, it remains one of Medford Village’s architectural treasures, embodying the ornate details, craftsmanship, and character of the era. For decades, it was known as The Iris Inn Bed & Breakfast, warmly hosting travelers from near and far. Its enduring presence on Main Street has long made it a cornerstone of village life, quietly witnessing the town’s evolution and the stories of its people.
Long before it became an inn, the home belonged to Dr. Edgar James Haines, a Doctor of Medicine and member of the Gynecological Society presented by the University of Pennsylvania in 1900. Local lore suggests that Dr. Haines built the mansion to rival the homes of his family members who lived along the same street. Each floor was designed with open spaces, allowing him to conveniently tend to patients within its walls.
When its days as The Iris Inn came to a close, the mansion entered a new chapter as a wellness center. Lovingly restored and reimagined, it now serves as a sanctuary for holistic practitioners and seekers of well-being. The Center reflects the spirit of Medford Village itself—honoring the past while embracing the future. Its soaring ceilings, intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and inviting parlors create an atmosphere of peace and inspiration. Every corner carries a story, resonating with the many footsteps of those who have come seeking comfort, healing, and transformation
Where History Meets Healing
Stepping into The Center, visitors are greeted by the gentle patina of history blended with the warmth of modern hospitality. The original hardwood floors creak with stories of the past, while sunlight pours through tall windows, illuminating rooms filled with carefully curated furnishings and thoughtful art. The mansion’s many nooks and alcoves provide intimate spaces for reflection, conversation, or quiet meditation.
Each room within the Center is imbued with intention. Spacious studios host group classes, while private treatment rooms offer sanctuary for individualized therapies. The grand living room serves as both a gathering space and an informal lounge, welcoming spontaneous conversation and friendship. Period details—ornate fireplaces, crown moldings, and antique mirrors—evoke a sense of timelessness, reminding guests that healing is both an ancient and ever-evolving art.
Beyond its walls, the Center’s gardens and grounds offer a peaceful retreat from the bustle of daily life. The exterior’s stately façade stands tall against the sky—a symbol of resilience, shelter, and hope.
The Center’s Evolving Legacy – A Look Ahead
As The Center continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to its founding values of integrity, inclusivity, and holistic care. Plans for future expansion, new programming, and innovative partnerships are always underway, guided by a vision that honors both heritage and progress. The Center’s commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and community engagement positions it as a leader in the wellness movement—an enduring touchstone for generations to come.
Through its dedication to holistic wellness and its embrace of tradition and innovation, The Center continues to illuminate the path toward wholeness, offering shelter to the body and soul, and weaving its legacy into the vibrant tapestry of the village’s future.
Now under new ownership and lovingly renamed, The Center for Living, there are plans for future expansion, new programming, and innovative partnerships guided by a vision that honors both heritage and progress. The Center, as she is lovingly referred to, is committed to sustainability, accessibility, and community engagement. And will continue to be positioned as a leader in the wellness movement—an enduring touchstone for generations to come.
