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Visiting President James Buchanan's Wheatland in Pennsylvania

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Damon Zimmer
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LANCASTER, PENNSYLVANIA - On a recent visit to Pennsylvania, I found a fascinating place. I was intrigued by the site's historical significance and the way it was preserved. I was particularly impressed that the site was a National Historic Landmark and was also located on a Postage Stamp commemorating the centennial of President James Buchanan's election.

Photo: President James Buchanan's House

 

James Buchanan's Wheatland in Pennsylvania

Historical Significance

When you visit President James Buchanan's Wheatland in Pennsylvania, you discover a fascinating piece of American history. It's a classic Federal-style mansion. This 10-acre campus of history is part of a National Register of Historic Places.



Wheatland was built in 1828. It originally served as the home of lawyer and bank president William Jenkins. However, the property changed hands several times before it ended with Buchanan.

After he served as president, Buchanan returned to the house for several years. He added some interior improvements, including central heating and a tin bathtub.



During the Civil War, Wheatland was threatened by Confederate troops. But Buchanan's estate was protected by his wife, Harriet Lane. The two were often in each other's company.

Location

Wheatland is the historic property of the 15th President of the United States, James Buchanan. The house is located outside the city of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It is owned by the Lancaster County Historical Society and maintained by the same organization.

Located on a 10-acre campus, it is a historic attraction open to the public. A variety of tours are offered. These include walking and running tours. You can also see items related to the life of James Buchanan.

Wheatland is a Federal style mansion that was built in 1828. The two-and-a-half-story central section features a Doric-columned porch. In addition to the main block, the house includes a basement, attic, and several outbuildings.



National Historic Landmark status

A significant portion of President James Buchanan's life and presidency can be traced to the Wheatland estate in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This property is a National Historic Landmark.

It was constructed in 1828 by lawyer and bank president William Jenkins. The Wheatland mansion consists of two main sections, the main block, and a two-story wing. There are 17 rooms in the house. The main block features a Doric-columned front porch that dominates the front of the house.

The house is in excellent condition and is open to the public. The grounds include a carriage house, a smokehouse, and a privy. The lot on three sides surrounds these.

The home is open for public tours, which last approximately an hour. A costumed guide leads the tour. During the holidays, there is a special Yuletide at Wheatland program.

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