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Survey of
Historic Sites and Buildings
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SUMMERSEAT
Pennsylvania
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Summerseat
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Location: Bucks County, on Clymer Street in the block
bounded by Morris and Hillcrest Avenues, Morrisville.
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Summerseat (Somerseat), sometimes called Summerseat
School, was erected in the 1770's by Thomas Barclay, a Philadelphia
merchant. In 1806 signer of the Declaration and the Constitution George
Clymer acquired the Georgian residence and occupied it until his death
there 7 years later.
The five-bay brick-and-stone structure, which was
restored in 1931 and renovated 4 years later, is in good condition. It
stands two stories high over an elevated basement. A pair of interior
brick chimneys rise near each end of the slate-covered gable roof. The
main, or east, facade is of brick; the end walls, probably also of
brick, are covered with cement; the rear elevation is of field stone. A
rectangular transom and triangular pediment surmount the paneled front
door. Flat arches, of gauged brick, accent the first- and second-floor
windows of the main facade; segmental arches, also of gauged brick, top
the windows of the rear elevation and of all those in the basement. All
first- and second-floor windows have solid shutters.
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Summerseat. (National Park Service (Charles W. Snell, 1970).) |
Central halls divide the four rooms on both floors
into pairs. Each room is equipped with a fireplace. The stairs, set
against the south wall of the rear portion of the hall, are lighted by a
large window overlooking the landing. The walls, floors, and some of the
woodwork appear to be original.
The Morrisville School District owns the building,
and uses it for educational purposes. It is open to the public on a
restricted basis.
http://www.cr.nps.gov/history/online_books/constitution/site22.htm
Last Updated: 29-Jul-2004
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