Barclay House (Bedford, Pennsylvania) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Barclay House
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Barclay House, April 2010
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Location | 230 Juliana St., Bedford, Pennsylvania |
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Area | 0.7 acres (0.28 ha) |
Built | 1889 |
Architectural style | Gothic, Italianate |
NRHP reference No. | 78002342 |
Added to NRHP | September 18, 1978 |
The Barclay House, also known as the Bedford Mansion, is a historic home in Bedford, Pennsylvania. It was built in 1889. This two-and-a-half-story brick building shows off two interesting architectural styles.
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Exploring the Historic Barclay House
The Barclay House is a special building with a rich history. It stands out in Bedford, Pennsylvania, because of its unique design and past uses.
A Closer Look at its Design
The house was built in 1889. It is made of brick and has two main floors, plus an attic space. The design of the Barclay House mixes two old styles: Gothic and Italianate.
- Gothic style often includes pointed arches and decorative details, like those found in old castles or cathedrals.
- Italianate style usually features wide roof eaves, tall windows, and sometimes a more square shape.
The roof of the Barclay House has a unique shape called a "jerkin-head gable." This means the top part of the gable (the triangular section of a wall at the end of a pitched roof) is cut short and slopes back.
From Library to Art Gallery
Over the years, the Barclay House has served different purposes. It once housed the Bedford County Public Library. This means many people in the area would have visited it to borrow books and learn.
Today, the Barclay House is home to the Bedford Fine Art Gallery. This gallery displays art from the 19th century. It gives visitors a chance to see beautiful artworks in a historic setting.
Why is it a Historic Place?
The Barclay House is recognized as an important historical building. It was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. The National Register is the United States government's official list of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects deemed worthy of preservation. Being on this list helps protect the building and recognize its importance to history.