Friendship Hill NHS

September 3, 2016

We were out thrift shopping at a store about 40 minutes from our house and we seen that this site was only 8 miles away from Masontown, so we decided to go for it and make it a twofer for our freshly-bought passport and this park along with Fort Necessity (which we have been to, but not the newer visitor center) would be our quest for the day as we were going for an Access Pass and did not want to pay the $10.00 fee via mail.

Park Gateway

Gallatin House

Modern Comfort Facility

As we enter the park, we proceed to the main parking area which has the modern comfort facility and such we see a sign for the Gallatin House and proceed up the hill, passing a statue of Albert Gallatin himself. 

The portions of the house from the Gallatin era are open to the public. The rooms contain exhibits and some furnishings relating to the period of Gallatin's life when the addition was built.

Once arrived at the visitor center, we get clicked by the counter and get a greeting by park staff and learn about the park. Furthermore, we proceed to stamp our passport and learn that we will have to go to Fort Necessity for the Access Pass. That's Ok, we explore the house and proceed outside where we see a few squrrels wrestling for food, we dont disturb them and move on

Park Synopsis

Albert Gallatin Statue

Albert Gallatin is best remembered for his thirteen year tenure as Secretary of the Treasury during the Jefferson and Madison administrations. In that time he reduced the national debt, purchased the Louisiana Territory and funded the Lewis & Clark exploration. Gallatin's accomplishments and contributions are highlighted at Friendship Hill, his restored country estate

When Albert Gallatin first came to the area in 1784, the Monongahela River was on the edge of the American frontier. Gallatin believed the rich land of the west held the key to his wealth. Farming, logging, mining, and the development of transportation have all left their imprint here.Now the land is being managed to return to woods and meadows similar to those Gallatin knew, and you are invited to explore them.

If You Go

Hiking Trail Signage

The Park Grounds and Trails are open daily from sunrise to sunset, all year. Please note: While the park is open Sunrise to Sunset - the Gallatin House Visitor Center may be closed during the winter season. Additionally, there is a modern comfort facility in the main parking lot that is open year round when the park is open. 

Sensible seasonal dress is recommended for your visit and depending on your planned activities, should include accessories such as sunscreen, sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and extra water. When hiking in the park, make certain you have adequate water and a fully charged cell phone to use in case of an emergency. All emergencies in the park should be addressed to 911. Furthermore the Friendship Hill Association has a annual event the third weekend in September with period reenactments called FestiFall

Accessibility

All reasonable park facilities, including comfort and hydration are accessible. Access to a service road to the Gallatin House is available with proper notice to park staff.