 |
|
Barns-Brinton
House
The Barns-Brinton House is located on Route 1 in the beautiful Chadds Ford area. The building itself is over 200 years old. It was built in 1714 and is full of rich history, including many stories from passer-bys. Many people used to travel "Ye Great Road to Nottingham" along which the Barns-Brinton House is located. This route was considered to be a major highway between Philadelphia and Maryland. The house was initially built as a home for Mr. Barnes' family as well as a tavern open to all. To fully appreciate the beautiful design of the brickwork on the house, you must walk around the outside of the structure. You will notice the decorative Flemish bond design with black headers. The "diaper" pattern brickwork on the gable on the other end of the house reveals the artistic effort of the craftsmen. The house is two and a half stories high and supports two chimneys. On the outside of the West End of the house, you can see where another structure, perhaps a log addition, joined the brickwork. The interior of the house is also well known for its crafted woodwork and paneling. The beautifully tooled wood most likely came from native hardwood trees found surrounding the area. Fortunately, much of the original hardware remains probably wrought by blacksmith Barns. Although the woodworking adds a feeling of warmth, it also appears dark due to a limited light source as the windows are translucent. The first floor is divided into two rooms by a broad partition. The second floor has a small hall at the head of the stairs along with three chambers. Above the second floor, just below the roof, is a garret used for storage. Two spiral staircases, one in each gable-end, adds to the uniqueness of the house. Built in 1714 by Blacksmith Barnes, it actually went through many owners. From 1722 until his death in 1731, Barnes used the house as a private residence for his family and as a business - a tavern for "ye accommodation of Man and Horse". The tavern provided a bar room and sleeping quarters for weary travelers. The grandson of William Brinton, who was one of the earliest settlers in the area, bought the house and farmland in 1753. The house remained in the Brinton family for over one hundred years. When "Ye Great Road to Nottingham" was moved in 1938 to the north side of the building, it was said that the tavern had turned its back to its travelers. The "new" road was now through the backyard. The kitchen garden, which is usually in the backyard, is now lined with the original entrance. In 1969, the Chadds Ford Historical Society purchased the building and authentically restored it as a country tavern. The Barns-Brinton House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and stands as a reflection of life in the early 1700's in the Brandywine Valley. |