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1803 House Restoration

 

Location: 55 South Keystone Avenue, Emmaus PA 18049;

Below: Restoration Projects of Colonial Windows, Shutters and Doors;

The 1803 House Needs Your Help to Restore its Aging Roof...

GREAT NEWS!!!!!
After much research and deliberation among the 1803 House board, the Emmaus Historic Commission and the borough, we’re excited to announce that the 1803 House will be getting a much-needed new roof, as the current roof is leaking and causing support beams to sag and compromise the structure. The 1803 House board have concurred that a metal roof would be an appropriate material to use to maintain its historic integrity, as early American rolling mills began producing sheet iron in the late 1700s.  Even The Monticello, Thomas Jeffersons home, built in 1781, had a metal roof.  It is a material that continues to be popular because of its durability, low maintenance and energy efficiency.
We are truly grateful for the support of many individuals who have contributed to our 2026 fundraising campaign to make this happen. There is still time to donate, helping to keep history alive in your beautiful town.  Check out our “See My Legacy” New Roof Capital Campaign by opening Raise the Roof.
  
    

     Help protect one of Emmaus' most treasured landmarks; The 1803 House stands as a rare and beautifully preserved example of early colonial architecture - built by Jacob Ehrenhardt Jr., son of Jacob Ehrenhardt Sr., one of the Emmaus" original founders. Constructed with hand-sourced stone and timber in 1802, the house served as a warm, welcoming space for Jacob's growing family and remains a proud symbol of the town's Moravian roots and pioneering spirit.  
     For nearly 50 years, The Friends of the 1803 House have worked to preserve this important piece of local history.  As a museum and community touchstone, the 1803 House offers residents and visitors a glimpse into daily life in early 19th century Pennsylvania. BUT TODAY, THE 1803 HOUSE NEEDS YOUR HELP!!!!  Due to age and weather, the original roof structure is failing, and the weight of the current slate shingles has begun to compromise the historic wood framing.  
     To protect this home and it legacy, we are hoping to raise $100,000 which will help us to restore the original roof framing, repair gutter and flashing, and replace the slate shingles with lighter, historically appropriate wood shingles. 
     Your donation will ensure the 1803 House continues to inspire future generations as living testament to Emmaus' heritage.  Every contribution brings us one step closer to securing the future of this beloved local landmark.  
         Donate Online...go to Participate Now to donate online and receive your tax-deductible acknowledgement and receipt.
      Donate by Check...Make check payable to "The Friends of the 1803 House" and mail it to P.O. Box 7, Emmaus, PA 18049.

Colonial Windows & Shutters:

Restoration of Windows: There are 16 colonial windows and 30 shutters that are in dire need of repair.  As of Fall 2019, Reed Harris Contractors has repaired, restored and painted 4 windows, not the shutters, on the side of the house.  Only 12 more to go.  Support our fundraising events for the window repair.  Below are before and after pictures.
 

Colonial Doors:

Restoration of the Cellar Doors: The cellar doors have been in dire need of repair and painting.  The cellar doors were again repaired by Reed Harris Contractors.  Below are before and after pictures of our cellar doors.
 
 
Restoration of Front and Back Doors: Over time the front and back kitchen door deteriorated along with the trim. Each were preserved, restored and painted by Reed Harris Contractors. Below are close up pictures of front door [first 2 are after restoration and the 3rd one is before]. See Before and After Pictures.
   

Flood Damage Appeal

      
      
   
We, the Friends of the 1803 House, have been digging deep into the history of the 1803 House since 1975, constantly studying, interpreting and preserving a primary example of a Pennsylvania settler's fieldstone homestead.  We are thankful the flood on August 4, 2020 did not damage our recently completed archaeological dig.  We now have to "Dig Deep" into the resources of the community asking for funding and "in-kind" efforts to help with the mounting flood bills that are $12,000.  Please consider supporting the 1803 House with a tax-deductible contribution to help with our flood damage costs.  Thank you in advance for your continued support to the 1803 House!  Presidents Appeal Letter;  Flood Pictures;

To donate, click on the "Contribute to Appeal" button and mail it with your tax-deductible donation.

 

Attend an 1803 House Event:


      Please consider attending our fundraiser events.  In the Spring enjoy some food, wine, music; in Fall enjoy some more food, beer and music; and in winter enjoy an "Old Fashioned Christmas at the 1803 House."
For more information Go to Events