Brick House - First Floor

Brick House

Quick Facts

Location:

Brick House - First Floor

Significance:

Whiskey Rebellion

Designation:

Historic Structure

Amenities

8 listed

Accessible Rooms, Audio Description, Benches/Seating, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Junior Ranger Activity, Wheelchair Accessible, Wheelchairs Available

15. Welcome to the Brick House

This section of the home was originally built for founding father Albert Gallatin and his first young bride, Sophia Allègre, in 1789. The two and a half story house had a brick exterior, which is why it is called the Brick House. It comprised of two rooms, one on top of the other. Servants likely were in the half story space above the bedroom. The first floor room would have served as a parlor, or living room, and a dining room. 

Unfortunately for Gallatin, Sophia would die five months into their marriage in October 1789. No one knows how she died, although there has been plenty of speculation through the years. The most likely explanation is that she died due to complications in pregnancy. There is no record of a child, but Gallatin does note in his expenses that a doctor and midwife visited the house.

Gallatin is so heartbroken about Sophia's death that he leaves the property and even considers returning to Switzerland. His involvement in American politics can be traced back to this event. Had Sophia lived, she and Gallatin may have been very happy as farmers in western Pennsylvania.

Sophia is buried on the property, and visitors to the site can visit her graveside.