David Bradford House facts for kids
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David Bradford House
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David Bradford House, from across South Main Street
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | 175 South Main Street, Washington, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1788 |
| Architect | David Bradford |
| Architectural style | Late German Colonial |
| NRHP reference No. | 73001668 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | July 16, 1973 |
| Designated NHL | July 28, 1983 |
The David Bradford House is a historic house museum in Washington, Pennsylvania. It was finished in 1788. This house was once the home of David Bradford. He was a key leader during an important event called the Whiskey Rebellion. The house is special because of its history and its unique design. It was even named a National Historic Landmark in 1983. You can visit the house most weeks from April to November. You can also arrange a visit by appointment.
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History of the David Bradford House
The David Bradford House was built by David Bradford. He was a very successful lawyer. He also worked as a deputy attorney-general for Washington County, Pennsylvania. Later, he became a leader in the Whiskey Rebellion.
Building a Frontier Mansion
In 1788, this house was the first stone house on South Main Street. For a frontier town, it was considered a very grand home. The building has two stories and was built in the Georgian style. It features dressed stone and four-bay windows. The front entrance has a special fanlight window above the door. Inside, the staircase was made of solid mahogany wood. The fancy fireplaces and other furniture were brought all the way from Philadelphia. This was very expensive back then. During a restoration, a secret underground passage was found. It led to a nearby ravine. People believe this tunnel was a secret escape route. It could have been used if the house was ever attacked.
Bradford Family and Later Years
David Bradford and his family lived in the house for only six years. In 1794, he left the house after the Whiskey Rebellion.
An important author, Rebecca Harding Davis, was born in this house. Her birthday was June 24, 1831. A historical marker honoring her is nearby. It was the first marker in Washington, Pennsylvania, dedicated to a woman.
By the 1930s, the house was in poor condition. It was so run down that it wasn't included in a book about early architecture. However, by 1966, the same author helped restore the house. Many changes were made, including adding a storefront.
Restoration and Museum Status
In 1953, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission placed a historical marker at the house. This marker pointed out the building's historical importance. In 1959, the Commission took control of the house. They oversaw its restoration to look like it did in the 1700s. They also added furniture from that time. This furniture showed what a person like David Bradford would have owned.
In 1982, the Bradford House Historical Association took over managing the museum. The museum is open from early May through mid-December. They offer tours for groups and host special events.
The David Bradford House was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. It was then named a National Historic Landmark in 1983. It is also recognized as a historic public landmark by the Washington County History & Landmarks Foundation.
See also
