Colonel Joseph Barker House

The Colonel Joseph Barker House is a two-story rectangular brick building set on a sandstone foundation, featuring a central entrance with a fanlight and sidelights that are characteristic of Federal-style design. The structure displays the clean lines and symmetrical proportions typical of early 1800s residential architecture.

Built in 1832 by Colonel Joseph Barker Sr., a skilled builder who established himself in the Marietta area beginning in 1789, the structure reflects the expansion of settlement during this period. His construction work was part of the broader development of Washington County as the frontier opened.

The residence displays construction practices typical of early 1800s frontier settlements, with its brick walls and Federal-style details that reflect the craftsmanship standards of that era. The building shows how prosperous families chose to construct their homes during this period.

The building currently serves as a government office and can be viewed from the exterior, allowing visitors to see the architectural details from the property grounds. Visitors should respect the active use of the building and plan their visit accordingly.

This structure is one of the few surviving buildings personally constructed by Colonel Barker, making it rare among his body of work. His daughter Frances Dana Barker Gage went on to become a noted writer and social reformer whose work shaped the historical record of the family.

Location: Washington County

GPS coordinates: 39.48639,-81.48861

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:23