Friendship Hill National Historic Site, maintained by the National Park Service, was the home of early American politician Albert Gallatin. It overlooks the Monongahela River near Point Marion, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, about 50 miles south of Pittsburgh.
Location:
1 Old Gallatin Road, Point Marion, PA 15474, USA
Entrance Fee: Free
There is no admission fee to visit Friendship Hill National Historic Site. Visitors can explore the historic home, grounds, and hiking trails without any charge.
May 1st to September 30th:
Sunday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Monday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Tuesday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
The Gallatin House is open every day, Check our website for the most up to date information about hours from October 1st to April 30th. Friendship Hill National Historic Site will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day every year.
October 1–December 31:
The Gallatin House and Visitor Center will be open Friday through Monday 9 AM to 5 PM weather permitting. We will be closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Sunday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Monday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Grounds remain open from sunrise to sunset seven days a week.
Visitor Center:
The Visitor Center is an important stop for visitors to learn more about the site's history and Albert Gallatin's contributions to American politics and finance.
It is located near the entrance to the site, close to the main house.
The center contains exhibits that provide historical context about Gallatin's life and work, as well as the significance of the house and the surrounding area.
Although the entrance is free, you may find guided tours available at certain times, which may have a suggested donation or fee for special programs. It's best to check with the site directly for more details on specific offerings.
History of Friendship Hill:
Friendship Hill, located in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, is named for the idea of "friendship" that its owner, Albert Gallatin, embraced and valued throughout his life. Friendship Hill is set on a scenic hillside overlooking the Monongahela River.
The site also symbolized his deep connections to both his family and his community. Gallatin was known for being open-minded, and he sought to build bridges between people of different backgrounds, including Native Americans, settlers, and politicians.
Gallatin served as the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury from 1801 to 1814 under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. He is known for his work in reducing the national debt and promoting infrastructure development.
The home itself is made up of six sections. The earliest of these is the original brick house built in 1789. This original structure was constructed in the Federalist style with a Flemish bond. Along the north side of the brick house, a simple frame dwelling was added in 1798. A stone kitchen was added in 1823, a State Dining Room in 1895, a south bedroom wing was finished in 1902, and the servants' quarters were added in 1903.
The house was designated a National Historic Landmark on January 12, 1965, and was therefore administratively listed on the National Register of Historic Places with its establishment on October 15, 1966. The national historic site was established on November 10, 1978, and is administered under Fort Necessity National Battlefield.
Who was Albert Gallatin:
He was born on January 29, 1761, in Geneva, Switzerland, to a wealthy and politically connected family. He was well-educated in Europe, learning languages, history, and economics.
In 1780, Gallatin immigrated to the American colonies to escape the turmoil of the French Revolution and seek opportunities in the New World. He settled in western Pennsylvania, where he became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1785.
Gallatin married Sophia Allegre in 1793, and the couple had six children together. His family life was important to him, and he made sure to provide for his children's education and welfare.
He represented western Pennsylvania in the Pennsylvania State Legislature.
Then he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1795 as a member of the Democratic-Republican Party. He served four terms in the House.
In 1801, President Thomas Jefferson appointed Gallatin as Secretary of the Treasury, a position he would hold for 13 years under both Jefferson and President James Madison.
He was also involved with negotiating the Treaty of Ghent which ended the War of 1812.
In 1816 he was appointed U.S. ambassador to France.
After his diplomatic service, Gallatin returned to the United States and served a term in the U.S. Senate (1813–1825).
During his retirement, Gallatin spent time at his home, Friendship Hill, in Pennsylvania, where he pursued intellectual interests and corresponded with political leaders.
Albert Gallatin died on August 12, 1849.
Hiking Trails:
Friendship Hill National Historic Site offers a few trails and areas for hiking, along with an opportunity to explore the beautiful natural landscape surrounding the historic house.
- Gallatin Trail:
- Length: Approximately 0.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- This trail is a short walk that provides visitors a scenic view of the grounds surrounding the historic home. It's a relatively easy hike, making it accessible to most visitors, and it’s a good choice if you are looking to combine nature with history. The trail offers a chance to explore the site's scenic views, which overlook the Monongahela River.
- Friendship Hill Trail:
- Length: Approximately 1.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- This is a longer trail that takes you through the wooded areas surrounding the historic site. It provides an opportunity for more extensive hiking and connects visitors with the natural beauty of the area.
Conclusion:
Friendship Hill is more than just a historical site; it’s a place to relax, learn, and connect with nature. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, there’s something here for everyone. We hope you enjoy your visit to this wonderful park and take a little piece of Albert Gallatin’s legacy home with you! Safe travels!
If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us below!
