James Buchanan's Wheatland in Lancaster, PA was the 15th President's home during a tumultuous time as the Civil War broke out. President Buchanan was the only single man ever to hold the office and his niece Harriet Lane served as his First Lady. The house called
Wheatland is a testament to his legacy as a President as well as a piece of history that has been restored ever so carefully.
During a tour of
Wheatland, which resides on a little over four acres of land, you will likely visit the gardens in which plants, vegetables and herbs are growing, the same things from President Buchanan's time in the 19th century. There are several outbuildings to poke through like the ice and smoke house where they stored fruits, vegetables, meat and even ice. There is even a privy house which served as the bathroom until an interior one was installed in the home.
The tour of
James Buchanan's Wheatland itself is an engaging and educational time for both adults and kids alike. You will learn about the daily life of the household during this time of the Victorian era and Civil War. The mode of dress of the time is interesting to learn about and you will also learn more about Buchanan's political career and how he made a difference in the history of the country.
You will learn some interesting things about Harriet Lane, President Buchanan's niece. She was a very philanthropic woman who collected art to form the beginnings of the Smithsonian Institute and even opened a home for invalid kids which now a part of the great Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Both President Buchanan and his niece touched the lives of many and you will get to learn about their family, lifestyle and beliefs while on the tour. It's a great time for history buffs who are interested about the places, people and events that have shaped the country's very direction.
