The ca. 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.
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.
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 IMAGES OF THE CHADS HOUSE:
The John Chads House is open weekends May through September, 1 to 5 p.m., and for group tours by appointment through the Chadds Ford Historical Society office. $3 Admission includes the John Chads House and Springhouse. Call 610-388-7376.