Exploring the Allstadt House and Ordinary: A Harpers Ferry Historic Gem

Nestled in the scenic hills of West Virginia near the historic town of Harpers Ferry, the Allstadt House and Ordinary stands as a testament to both the rich history of the region and the resilience of its people. Built around 1790, this fascinating structure offers visitors a rare glimpse into life during the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly the era surrounding John Brown’s infamous raid on Harpers Ferry.

The Origins of the Allstadt House

The Allstadt House was constructed on land originally owned by the Lee family, including prominent figures like Phillip Ludwell Lee, Richard Bland Lee, and Henry Lee III. Situated at a crossroads, the house was sold to the Allstadt family in 1811, who hailed from Berks County, Pennsylvania. Jacob Allstadt, the first member of the family to own the property, not only operated a tavern—known as an “ordinary” during that time—but also ran a tollgate along the Harpers Ferry-Charles Town Turnpike. The house served as a key stopping point for travelers passing through the area. The Allstadt family expanded the house around 1830, making it the two-story structure we see today.

The property remained in the family for generations, with the last direct descendant, John Thomas Allstadt, passing away in 1923. Remarkably, he was the last surviving person associated with John Brown’s Raid, one of the most significant events in American history.

John Brown’s Raid and the Allstadt House

The most dramatic moment in the Allstadt House’s history came on October 16, 1859, when John Brown launched his raid on Harpers Ferry, hoping to incite a slave rebellion. As part of his mission, Brown’s forces, led by John Cook, took a detachment to Beall-Air, where they captured Colonel Lewis Washington (great-grandnephew of George Washington) and freed his slaves. On their way back to Harpers Ferry, the raiders stopped at the Allstadt House, where they took both Jacob Allstadt and his son, John Thomas, hostage, alongside seven freed slaves.

The Allstadt family survived the violent siege that followed, but the freed slaves were later re-enslaved, a tragic reflection of the deep divide that was so prevalent in pre-Civil War America. The story of these events, marked by complex emotions and social dynamics, is one of the many layers of history that visitors can explore when they visit this historic site.

A Step Back in Time: The Architecture and Buildings

The Allstadt House is a beautiful example of Georgian and Federal architecture, with distinct features that transport visitors back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The main house itself is an L-shaped structure with a central brick chimney. It was originally a modest 1½-story building, but was expanded around 1830 to its current two-story form. Inside, the house contains two rooms on the ground floor, each with Georgian-style mantels, and two rooms and a hall upstairs. The windows are original 6-over-6 double-hung sashes, and a one-story kitchen—once a separate building—was added later, likely around the time the second floor was constructed.

A second, two-story stone building was built around the same time as the expansion of the house, and it features a two-tiered porch on the south side. The upper level is accessed by a ladder, adding an interesting historical touch to the structure.

In addition to the main house and its adjoining kitchen, the property also includes a stone bank barn built around 1830. The barn was used to house horses and other animals for the tavern’s guests. Its distinctive overhang is supported by unique chamfered stone piers, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.

The Allstadt Cemetery: A Quiet Reflection of History

Not far from the house, the Allstadt Cemetery serves as the final resting place for many members of the extended Allstadt family. The graves span the years 1821 to 1880, with a particularly poignant marker for five Russell family infants, who may have died from diphtheria. This cemetery adds another layer of historical depth to the property, offering a chance to reflect on the lives and struggles of the past.

Visiting the Allstadt House Today

In 1985, the Allstadt House was added to the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its significance in the history of West Virginia and the United States. In 2019, the property was donated to the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park by the American Battlefield Trust, ensuring its preservation for future generations to experience and learn from.

Today, the Allstadt House and Ordinary is a peaceful place to explore for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone interested in the stories that shaped the region. As you stroll through the historic house and its grounds, you can imagine what life was like for the Allstadt family, the travelers who stopped at their tavern, and the key players in the dramatic events that unfolded during John Brown’s raid.

If you’re planning an outdoor adventure near Harpers Ferry, make sure to include a visit to the Allstadt House in your itinerary. Its historical significance, combined with its serene setting, makes it a unique stop that brings the past to life in a way that is both educational and moving.

Whether you’re hiking through the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park or simply exploring the local area, don’t miss out on the chance to experience this piece of history that has witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in American history. The Allstadt House and Ordinary invites you to step into the past, offering a rare opportunity to connect with the history of this storied region.

About River Riders:
River Riders is located in Harpers Ferry, WV, and offers camping, river adventures, and more, providing everything you need to experience the best of West Virginia in every season.