The Gassaway Mansion is a historic house museum located in Silver Spring, Montgomery County, Maryland. Built in 1889 by Colonel Edward Bruce Gassaway, it is a contributing property to the Silver Spring Historic District and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. The mansion is an example of Victorian architecture and is made of red brick with brownstone trim. It has a slate roof and a tower with a conical roof.

The Gassaway Mansion is now owned by the Montgomery County Parks Department and is used as a museum. The museum tells the story of the Gassaway family and the history of Silver Spring. It also has exhibits on Victorian architecture and fashion.

The Gassaway Mansion is a popular tourist destination and is also used for special events such as weddings and parties.

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Gassaway Mansion

The Gassaway Mansion is a historic house museum located in Silver Spring, Maryland. It is a contributing property to the Silver Spring Historic District and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. The mansion is an example of Victorian architecture and is made of red brick with brownstone trim. It has a slate roof and a tower with a conical roof.

Architectural style: Victorian
Building materials: Red brick, brownstone trim, slate roof
Number of stories: Three
Number of rooms: 22
Year built: 1889
Original owner: Colonel Edward Bruce Gassaway
Current owner: Montgomery County Parks Department
Current use: Museum

The Gassaway Mansion is a popular tourist destination and is also used for special events such as weddings and parties. It is a reminder of the area's rich history and is a valuable asset to the community.

Architectural style

The Victorian architectural style was popular in the United States from the 1840s to the early 1900s. It is characterized by its elaborate ornamentation, asymmetry, and use of a variety of materials. The Gassaway Mansion is a classic example of Victorian architecture.

Asymmetry: Victorian homes are often asymmetrical, with one side of the house being different from the other. This asymmetry can be seen in the Gassaway Mansion, which has a tower on one side and a porch on the other.
Variety of materials: Victorian homes often use a variety of materials, such as brick, stone, wood, and iron. The Gassaway Mansion is made of red brick with brownstone trim and a slate roof.
Elaborate ornamentation: Victorian homes are often decorated with elaborate ornamentation, such as gingerbread trim, stained glass windows, and decorative moldings. The Gassaway Mansion has all of these features, as well as a turret and a widow's walk.

The Victorian architectural style was popular during a time of great economic growth and prosperity in the United States. This is reflected in the elaborate and ornate decoration of Victorian homes, which were often built by wealthy families. The Gassaway Mansion is a reminder of this era of prosperity and is a valuable example of Victorian architecture.

Building materials

The building materials used in the construction of the Gassaway Mansion are red brick, brownstone trim, and a slate roof. These materials were chosen for their durability, beauty, and status. Red brick was a popular building material in the Victorian era, and it was often used for homes and other important buildings. Brownstone is a type of sandstone that is quarried in the northeastern United States. It is a durable and attractive material that was often used for trim and other decorative elements. Slate is a type of metamorphic rock that is quarried in various parts of the world. It is a durable and weather-resistant material that was often used for roofing.

The use of these materials in the construction of the Gassaway Mansion reflects the wealth and status of the Gassaway family. The mansion is a large and impressive building, and the use of high-quality materials such as red brick, brownstone, and slate shows that the Gassaways were a wealthy and successful family. The mansion is also a well-preserved example of Victorian architecture, and the use of these materials helps to maintain the historical integrity of the building.

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The building materials used in the construction of the Gassaway Mansion are an important part of the building's history and significance. These materials were chosen for their durability, beauty, and status, and they reflect the wealth and status of the Gassaway family. The mansion is a well-preserved example of Victorian architecture, and the use of these materials helps to maintain the historical integrity of the building.

Number of stories

The Gassaway Mansion is a three-story building. This is a significant architectural detail for several reasons.

Status: In the Victorian era, three-story homes were typically built by wealthy families. The Gassaways were a wealthy family, and their three-story mansion reflects their status in the community.
Space: A three-story home provides more space than a one- or two-story home. This allowed the Gassaways to have a large home with plenty of room for their family and guests.
Architectural style: Three-story homes were popular in the Victorian era, and the Gassaway Mansion is a good example of this architectural style.

The three-story design of the Gassaway Mansion is an important part of its history and significance. It reflects the wealth and status of the Gassaway family, and it is a good example of Victorian architecture.

Number of rooms

The Gassaway Mansion has 22 rooms. This is a significant number for several reasons.

Size: A 22-room mansion is a large and spacious home. This reflects the wealth and status of the Gassaway family.
Function: A 22-room mansion provides plenty of space for a variety of functions. The Gassaways used the mansion for entertaining guests, hosting parties, and raising their family.
Architectural style: A 22-room mansion is a good example of Victorian architecture. Victorian homes were often large and elaborate, with many rooms.

The 22-room design of the Gassaway Mansion is an important part of its history and significance. It reflects the wealth and status of the Gassaway family, and it is a good example of Victorian architecture.

Year built

The Gassaway Mansion was built in 1889. This date is significant for several reasons.

Historical context: 1889 was a time of great economic growth and prosperity in the United States. The country was rapidly industrializing, and new technologies were being developed. This prosperity led to a building boom, and many new homes and businesses were constructed during this time.
Architectural style: The Gassaway Mansion is a classic example of Victorian architecture. Victorian homes were popular during the late 19th century, and they are characterized by their elaborate ornamentation, asymmetry, and use of a variety of materials. The Gassaway Mansion has all of these features, and it is a well-preserved example of Victorian architecture.
Local history: The Gassaway Mansion is an important part of Silver Spring's history. It was built by Colonel Edward Bruce Gassaway, who was a prominent local businessman and politician. The mansion was a center of social activity in Silver Spring, and it hosted many important events.

The year built (1889) is an important component of the Gassaway Mansion because it provides information about the historical context, architectural style, and local history of the mansion. This information helps us to understand the mansion's significance and appreciate its value as a historical landmark.

Original owner

Colonel Edward Bruce Gassaway was the original owner of the Gassaway Mansion. He was a prominent local businessman and politician, and the mansion was a center of social activity in Silver Spring. The connection between Colonel Gassaway and the mansion is significant for several reasons.

Founder and namesake: Colonel Gassaway was the founder of the Gassaway Mansion. He built the mansion in 1889, and it was named after him. The mansion is a reflection of Colonel Gassaway's wealth and status, and it is a reminder of his contributions to the Silver Spring community.
Architectural style: Colonel Gassaway was involved in the design of the mansion. He chose the Victorian architectural style, which was popular at the time. The mansion's elaborate ornamentation, asymmetry, and use of a variety of materials are all characteristic of Victorian architecture.
Local history: Colonel Gassaway was a prominent figure in Silver Spring history. He served as mayor of the town, and he was involved in many local organizations. The Gassaway Mansion is a reminder of Colonel Gassaway's role in the development of Silver Spring.

The connection between Colonel Edward Bruce Gassaway and the Gassaway Mansion is significant because it provides insights into the history of the mansion, its architectural style, and its local significance. The mansion is a reminder of Colonel Gassaway's wealth and status, and it is a valuable example of Victorian architecture.

Current owner

The Montgomery County Parks Department is the current owner of the Gassaway Mansion. This is significant because it ensures that the mansion will be preserved and maintained for future generations. The Parks Department has a long history of preserving and maintaining historic buildings, and they are committed to keeping the Gassaway Mansion in good condition.

The Parks Department has made a number of improvements to the mansion since they became the owners. They have restored the mansion's exterior and interior, and they have also added a new visitor center. The Parks Department also offers a variety of programs and events at the mansion, including tours, lectures, and concerts.

The Montgomery County Parks Department is an important part of the Gassaway Mansion's history and significance. They are committed to preserving and maintaining the mansion, and they offer a variety of programs and events that make the mansion accessible to the public.

Current use

The Gassaway Mansion is currently used as a museum, which is significant for several reasons.

Preservation: Museums play a vital role in preserving historic buildings and artifacts. The Gassaway Mansion is a valuable example of Victorian architecture, and its use as a museum helps to ensure that it will be preserved for future generations.
Education: Museums provide educational opportunities for the public. The Gassaway Mansion museum offers a variety of programs and exhibits that teach visitors about the history of the mansion, the Victorian era, and the Silver Spring community.
Community involvement: Museums are often community gathering places. The Gassaway Mansion museum hosts a variety of events, including tours, lectures, and concerts. These events provide opportunities for people to learn about the mansion and its history, and they also provide a space for people to socialize and connect with each other.
Tourism: Museums can be tourist attractions. The Gassaway Mansion museum is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in history, architecture, and culture. The museum's exhibits and programs help to promote tourism in Silver Spring and the surrounding area.

The current use of the Gassaway Mansion as a museum is significant because it helps to preserve the mansion, educate the public, and promote community involvement and tourism. The museum is a valuable asset to the Silver Spring community, and it is an important part of the mansion's history and significance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gassaway Mansion

This section addresses common inquiries and misconceptions about the Gassaway Mansion, offering informative responses based on historical facts and reliable sources.

Question 1: When was the Gassaway Mansion built?

Answer: The Gassaway Mansion was built in 1889 by Colonel Edward Bruce Gassaway.

Question 2: What architectural style is the Gassaway Mansion?

Answer: The Gassaway Mansion is an example of Victorian architecture, characterized by its elaborate ornamentation, asymmetry, and use of various materials.

Question 3: Who is the current owner of the Gassaway Mansion?

Answer: The Gassaway Mansion is currently owned by the Montgomery County Parks Department.

Question 4: What is the current use of the Gassaway Mansion?

Answer: The Gassaway Mansion is currently used as a museum, offering educational programs, exhibits, and community events.

Question 5: Is the Gassaway Mansion open to the public?

Answer: Yes, the Gassaway Mansion is open to the public for tours, events, and programs. Check the official website or contact the Montgomery County Parks Department for more information.

Question 6: What is the historical significance of the Gassaway Mansion?

Answer: The Gassaway Mansion is a contributing property to the Silver Spring Historic District and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural and historical value.

These questions and answers provide a concise overview of the Gassaway Mansion's history, architecture, ownership, and current use. For further inquiries or detailed information, refer to the official sources and resources related to the mansion.

Transition to the next article section: Explore the architectural details, historical context, and cultural significance of the Gassaway Mansion in the following sections.

Tips for Visiting the Gassaway Mansion

Visiting the Gassaway Mansion is a great way to learn about the history of Silver Spring and Victorian architecture. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:

Tip 1: Take a guided tour. Guided tours of the Gassaway Mansion are available on a regular basis. These tours provide an in-depth look at the mansion's history, architecture, and furnishings.

Tip 2: Visit the museum. The Gassaway Mansion Museum tells the story of the Gassaway family and the history of Silver Spring. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the Victorian era.

Tip 3: Attend an event. The Gassaway Mansion hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and holiday celebrations. These events are a great way to experience the mansion and learn more about its history.

Tip 4: Take a walk around the grounds. The Gassaway Mansion is situated on a beautiful piece of property. Take some time to walk around the grounds and enjoy the scenery.

Tip 5: Visit the gift shop. The Gassaway Mansion gift shop has a variety of items for sale, including books, souvenirs, and gifts. The proceeds from the gift shop help to support the mansion's preservation.

Summary: By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to the Gassaway Mansion. The mansion is a beautiful and historic building that is well worth a visit.

Transition to the article's conclusion: The Gassaway Mansion is a valuable asset to the Silver Spring community. It is a reminder of the area's rich history and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Conclusion

The Gassaway Mansion is a beautiful and historic building that is well worth a visit. It is a reminder of the area's rich history and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The mansion is also a valuable asset to the community, as it provides a space for educational programs, events, and cultural enrichment.

The Gassaway Mansion is a reminder of the importance of preserving our history and architecture. It is also a reminder of the importance of community involvement and support. We encourage everyone to visit the Gassaway Mansion and learn more about its history and significance.