Halfway House (Ansted, West Virginia) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Halfway House
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Western side and front
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 Location in West Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Location | Off old U.S. 60, Ansted, West Virginia |
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| Area | 1.8 acres (0.73 ha) |
| Built | c. 1810 |
| Architect | Joseph Skaggs |
| Architectural style | Log construction |
| NRHP reference No. | 78002792 |
| Added to NRHP | December 18, 1978 |
The Halfway House, also called the Tyree Tavern, is a very old and important building in Ansted, West Virginia. It was once a busy inn and tavern. Travelers could stop here to rest and eat. The building is made of logs and wood. It was first built around 1810. Later, it was made bigger around 1827.
This historic spot was a popular stop for stagecoaches. It was located on the James River and Kanawha Turnpike. Many famous people stayed here. These included Daniel Webster, Henry Clay, and John Breckenridge. During the American Civil War, it even served as a headquarters. The Halfway House was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. This means it is a special place worth protecting.
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A Glimpse into History
The Halfway House is more than just an old building. It tells a story about travel and life long ago. Imagine a time before cars and planes. People traveled by horse or stagecoach. They needed places to stop and rest. The Halfway House was one of those vital places.
What Was the Halfway House?
The Halfway House served two main purposes. It was an inn, which is like a hotel. Travelers could stay overnight. It was also a tavern, a place where people could get food and drinks. These places were very important for people traveling long distances.
The original part of the building was made of logs. It was built before 1810. Later, around 1827, it was made much larger. The building is about 50 feet long and 20 feet deep. It has two stories and a sloped roof.
A Busy Stagecoach Stop
The Halfway House was located on the James River and Kanawha Turnpike. A turnpike was an important road in the past. Stagecoaches were like old-fashioned buses. They carried people and mail. The Halfway House was a perfect stop for these coaches. It was a place where horses could be changed. Travelers could also stretch their legs and get a meal.
This location made the Halfway House a hub of activity. News and ideas traveled along with the stagecoaches. It was a place where people from different areas met.
Famous Visitors
Many important people stayed at the Halfway House. These guests were famous in American history.
- Daniel Webster was a well-known politician and speaker. He was famous for his powerful speeches.
- Henry Clay was another important politician. He was known for trying to find compromises.
- John Breckenridge was a Vice President of the United States. He also served in the Civil War.
Imagine these historical figures resting in the same rooms. They likely discussed important events of their time.
The Civil War Connection
The Halfway House also played a role during the American Civil War. This was a very difficult time in American history. The building served as a headquarters for a group called the Chicago Gray Dragoons. They were a military unit.
Having a military headquarters there shows its importance. It was a strategic location during the war. This adds another layer to its rich history.
Preserving History
Today, the Halfway House is a historic landmark. It was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. This listing helps protect the building. It ensures that future generations can learn from its past. It stands as a reminder of early American travel and important historical events.
