This year is shaping up to be a very special one for the Chadds Ford Historical Society and local history buffs. The Society has several events scheduled to commemorate the 300th Anniversary of the Barns-Brinton House (circa 1714). This historic structure which sits on Baltimore Pike has been attracting attention from drivers for many years as they pass by the striking Flemish bond style red brick home which also served as a tavern before our republic was in its formative stages. Mentioned by noted local architect John Milner as one of the most significant structures of its type in all of Pennsylvania, a series of activities starting in May 2014 will highlight the historic importance of this early 18th century dwelling.
The story of the Barns-Brinton house began when blacksmith William Barns foresaw the need for a tavern on “ye Great Road to Nottingham,” then a major thoroughfare between Philadelphia and Maryland. In 1714, Barns constructed a large brick building that was to serve as his home and also as a tavern. Barns received his license tavern license in 1722 and operated it until his death in 1731. The house changed owners several times after Barns’ passing. In 1753, the house and farmland were purchased by James Brinton, grandson of one of the earliest settlers in the region. After the Historical Society began operations in 1968, members noted that several local structures were threatened with closure and demolition. Both the John Chads House and the Barns-Brinton House were purchased by the Society and restored to their Colonial-era splendor. The latter structure was made famous in more recent years when artist Barclay Rubincam painted “Hessians Marching Past the Barns-Brinton House At the Battle of Brandywine” in 1976; this masterpiece now hangs on the wall inside the Chadds Ford Historical Society and will be a centerpiece of the celebration.
The Society will have an exhibit dedicated to the Barns-Brinton House available for visitors to learn more about its heritage, along with several events which celebrate its historic importance. On Friday May 16th from 5:30- 7:30 p.m. “A Toast to the Tavern” will be held at the Barn Visitor Center at 1736 Creek Road in Chadds Ford. On Saturday June 21st a “Colonial Faire” will be held at the Barns-Brinton House from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be a special lecture panel at the Brandywine River Museum Saturday September 27th which highlights local artists who’ve portrayed the Barns-Brinton House in their work. Throughout the Fall, a series of Colonial dinners with “period” food are planned at the house to continue the celebration. All these events are open to the public. For more information, contact the Historical Society at 610-388-7376 or visit their website at http://www.chaddsfordhistory.org/events/bbh-300-anniversary/.
* Gene Pisasale is an author based in Kennett Square. He’s written seven books and conducts a lecture series on topics of local and regional interest. His historical novel “Lafayette’s Gold- The Lost Brandywine Treasure” highlights the Battle of the Brandywine and is a walk through dozens of historic sites around the Chadds Ford area. His books are available on www.Amazon.com. For more information, visit his website at www.GenePisasale.com or e-mail him at Gene@GenePisasale.com.
About Gene Pisasale
Gene Pisasale is an historian, author and lecturer based in Kennett Square, Pa. His eight books and historic lecture series focus on the history of the mid-Atlantic region. Gene’s latest book is Alexander Hamilton: Architect of the American Financial System, which delves into the life and many accomplishments of this important Founding Father who almost single-handedly transformed our nation from a bankrupt entity into the most successful country in the history of mankind. Gene’s books are available on www.Amazon.com. His website is www.GenePisasale.com; he can be reached at Gene@GenePisasale.com.
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