The Henry Antes House, located in the township of Upper Frederick,
Pennsylvania, is the Historic House Museum of the the Goschenhoppen Historians, Inc. The
house is being preserved and restored to the period of Antes' lifetime as a living history
museum. Designed and built by Henry Antes in 1736, this massive stone building is an
excellent example of Germanic settlement houses. Two and one half centuries after its
construction, the building is remarkably well preserved. With its steep roof containing
two floors in the attic, three room floor plan and massive internal fireplace,
this pre-1760s house preserves rare evidence of early cultural traditions in the
settlement of the colonies. The house was also the site of frequent evangelical and
political meetings held to promote understanding among colonists of different
religion, culture and race. The Moravian school established here is recognized
as one of the first interracial nonsectarian schools in the state of Pennsylvania.
Henry Antes was among the greatest masterbuilders of the early colonial period and was
responsible for the construction of many of the early Moravian buildings and mills in
Bethlehem. He is also considered to be one of the most important religious/political
leaders in the middle colonies in the 18th century.
The Henry Antes House was designated a National Historic Landmark on April 27, 1992.
It has the unusual distinction of recognition in two
categories; as an important building type and for its association with Henry Antes,
one of the most important, yet unrecognized men of the 18th century. The
Goschenhoppen Historians, Inc., have created this living history museum to interpret
the lifestyle and tradition of a prosperous mid-18th century farmstead. The house is
notable for its remarkable state of preservation and contains many unusual and
unique features.
You can find the Henry Antes House just off Route 73, in Upper Frederick Township, Pennsylvania, by turning south on Colonial Road. Antes House is 1.5 miles on the left. From 422, take swamp Pike to Fagleysville Road to Colonial Road. Special Tours can be scheduled on request. To make arrangements call (215) 234-8953.
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