Butler County's Old Stone House
One of the oldest structures in Butler County is known simply as the Stone House. Built in 1822 by John K. Brown, it was one of the best known of the old posthouses during the stagecoach days of Western Pennsylvania. The house had fallen on hard times by 1963 when, according to author M.L. Golladay, who wrote in March of that year "Human hands long since stopped caring for the old inn, but its gaunt shape can still be seen standing against the sky as one travels along Route 8 about 12 miles north of Butler, Pa. Many of the blocks of stone that they cut and fitted for the walls are still in place, despite the relentless attack of time, weather, and rock- garden enthusiasts. Even so, the years have taken their toll. The roof and front wall are gone now, and the splintered stubs of hand-hewn supports jutting from the side walls are the only signs of the two-story wooden porch that once graced the distinctive front. "
Western Pennsylvania Conservancy launched a campaign to restore the landmark and, thanks to the support of our members, particularly Mrs. Alan M. Scaife and Mrs. Cordelia S. May, the project broke ground in mid-summer of 1963. Above is the result of these efforts, with an insert to show the home as it looked when WPC purchased the property. To read more of the history of the home, click here to read Mr. Golladay's 1963 account.
This work fit with WPC's protection of the adjacent "Jennings Blazing Star Prarie" with its rare plants and animals. This site was also protected in the 1960s.
Today the property is maintained by Slippery Rock University. For information on visiting this important piece of western Pennsylvania history, click here.
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