House Tour 2009

House B - Heritage House

Heritage House B&B, on Main Street in Washington, is a home, as well as a Bed and Breakfast, owned by Gary and Michelle Schwartz. This house, finished in 1837 by Henry Johnson for his new bride, Eliza Ann Grove, was originally built on an early American cabin scale, a 16' x32' two story frame house. As at Locust Grove, many additions and dismantlings have occurred at Heritage House B&B. Porches came and went, a serious fire left charred timbers still visible in the roof area, a second story front porch disappeared, doors became windows, and finally, the overhanging roof was supported by four full standing columns, giving the house the “manor house” design it bears today. Inside, as well, functions have changed; an added side porch is now a downstairs bedroom, an upstairs outdoor sleeping porch is now enclosed and part of a bedroom Suite, a doorway is now a wet bar. The original fireplace and mantel in the living room, with its period furnishings, provide a glimpse into the decor of the late nineteenth century. Elsewhere in the house, the furnishings, draperies, and accessories in the bedrooms are more dramatic and colorful, providing a sumptuous place to spend the night.