Brashear House
Brownsville, Fayette County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
John A. Brashear, astronomer, educator, was born here 1840. His grandfather kept the Brashear House, a leading tavern. In 1825 Lafayette spoke from its doorway to the people of Brownsville.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
John A. Brashear, born here in 1840, rose from a working life in the mills to become one of America's most celebrated makers of precision telescope lenses and mirrors, and a beloved educator. His grandfather ran the Brashear House, a leading tavern on the National Road through Brownsville. In 1825 the Marquis de Lafayette, touring the nation he had helped free, addressed the townspeople from its doorway.
Why it matters
Brownsville's tavern linked a Revolutionary hero's farewell tour to the boyhood home of a self-taught scientist whose instruments advanced American astronomy.
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Related people
- · John A. Brashear
- · Marquis de Lafayette
Themes & tags
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