Josiah Bartlett House facts for kids
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Josiah Bartlett House
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Josiah Bartlett House
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 Location in New Hampshire
Location in the United States
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| Location | Main Street, Kingston, New Hampshire |
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| Built | 1774 |
| NRHP reference No. | 71000050 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 11, 1971 |
| Designated NHL | November 11, 1971 |
The Josiah Bartlett House is a special old house in Kingston, New Hampshire. It was built in 1774 by Josiah Bartlett, a very important person in American history. He was one of the people who signed the United States Declaration of Independence. This house is now a National Historic Landmark because of its connection to him. It's a private home, so it's not usually open for visitors.
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Discovering the Josiah Bartlett House
This historic house is a two-and-a-half story building. It is made of wood and stands on Main Street in Kingston. You can find it right across from the Town Hall. Josiah Bartlett built this house in 1774. It replaced his first home, which was sadly destroyed by fire.
What Makes the House Special?
Over the years, especially in the early 1800s, some new styles were added to the house. These changes followed the Greek Revival style. This means the house got features like large corner pillars. It also has special frames around some windows and the front door. These details make the house look grand and important. A two-story addition was also built at the back of the house.
A National Historic Landmark
The Josiah Bartlett House was named a National Historic Landmark in 1971. This is a very important title. It means the house is recognized for its special history. It is honored because of its strong connection to Josiah Bartlett.
Who Was Josiah Bartlett?
Josiah Bartlett (1729–1795) was born in Amesbury, Massachusetts. He trained to be a doctor and started his medical practice in Kingston. He was a very smart and brave person.
Bartlett's Role in American History
Josiah Bartlett strongly disagreed with British rule over the American colonies. He became a key leader in the fight for independence. He was chosen to represent New Hampshire at the Continental Congress. This was a meeting of leaders from the American colonies.
At the Continental Congress, Josiah Bartlett played a huge part. He was one of the people who signed the United States Declaration of Independence. He was likely the second person to sign it, right after John Hancock. This document declared that the American colonies were free from British rule.
Supporting the Revolution
Bartlett's political actions were very strong. Some people who supported the British, called Loyalists, were not happy with him. During the American Revolution, he continued to serve his country. He provided medical help to the American rebel soldiers. He helped them during the 1777 Battle of Bennington.
A Leader in New Hampshire
After the Revolution, Josiah Bartlett continued to serve the public. He became the Governor of New Hampshire. He held this important position from 1790 to 1794. He passed away in this very house in 1795.
Today, the Josiah Bartlett House is a private home. It was still owned by Bartlett's family members in 1971. Because it is a private residence, it is not usually open for public tours.
