|
|
|
circa 1725 John Chads House |
|
The John Chads' House is the home of the ferryman and farmer for whom Chadds Ford was named. In 1968, Chadds Ford Historical Society purchased this charming bluestone building and has authentically restored and furnished it, along with the neighboring Springhouse. Having fallen heir to his father's five hundred acre "plantation" along the Brandywine, John Chads was already a man of some importance when he had a house built on the banks of the creek, probably by John Wyeth, Jr. (no relation to the Wyeth family of artists). The house's style and appointments suggest moderate wealth; its simplicity reflects Chads Quaker heritage (different than that of our Barns-Brinton House). In 1729, about four years after the house was completed, Chads took Elizabeth Richardson as his bride, and this became their home. By 1736, Chads had successfully petitioned for a license to operate a tavern and, about the same time, began a ferrying service. Chads leased both businesses to a relative in the 1740's. Although the village bears John's surname, perhaps the house should be referred to as Elizabeth's, for she was at home here for over sixty years. John died in 1760, leaving his widow the use of the house and forty acres of land. Elizabeth stood fast at the time of the Battle of Brandywine, September 11, 1777, hiding "her silver spoons dailey in her pocket." The widow Chads reportedly observed Hessian and Continental troop movements from the attic window which you see. Today, the house's pleasing proportions and continuous cornice, and its original oak floors, paneling, and woodwork make it a fine example of early 18th century Pennsylvania architecture. Its prime location on the hillside dictated its being built as a bank house. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Chads House is the anchor in the Chadds Ford Village Historic District. It is also a contributing element of the Brandywine Battlefield National Historic Landmark. |
| More pictures of the John Chads' House: |
 
 
|
|
Return to Home Page See our Calendar of Events |
| © 2010 Chadds Ford Historical Society (CFHS) is a private, non-profit, community based, volunteer organization that has restored and maintains three pre-Revolutionary buildings which are open to the public as House Museums. Education programs for schoolchildren are conducted year-round by appointment. Events hosted by the Society include Chadds Ford Days, The Great Pumpkin Carve, and Candlelight Christmas, plus many activities. See our Calendar of Events for a complete listing. Read more about our Mission. Search This Site. See Outside Links. Send us an Email, and ask us a question. |
