Wallace-Baily Tavern

The Wallace-Baily Tavern is a 2.5-story stone building with three bays and a frame kitchen extension added to the rear. The main structure shows solid masonry construction typical of buildings from that era meant to last through many seasons and weather conditions.

The tavern was built around 1840 and served as a key stopping point for people traveling on the National Road during the 1800s. This major trade route made the location profitable, as travelers and merchants regularly needed food and shelter for the night.

The building displays Greek Revival architectural elements through its double-stacked portico, reflecting how people in the early 1800s wanted their important buildings to look refined and classical. This style helped travelers recognize it as a respectable place to stop and rest.

The building sits about 1.5 miles west of Brier Hill along U.S. Route 40, making it easy to spot from the road. The property also includes the remains of an old wash house, which you can explore to get a fuller picture of how the place once operated.

The property earned a place in the National Register of Historic Places in 1995 as part of a special group of sites connected to Pennsylvania's National Road. This recognition highlights it as one of the few remaining buildings that shows what life was like for travelers in that period.

Location: Pennsylvania

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 39.99333,-79.85139

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:03