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  • Essay / Heurich Manor - 2159

    Christian Heurich, the owner of Heurich Manor, was born in 1842 in the small village of Hainia, Germany. He has always been very proud of his humble origins, especially since he was born in the remains of a castle that once housed the Henneberg dynasty. Christian Heurich's journey to becoming the ultimate American success story led him to the nation's capital to build the Heurich Mansion, or as it is known locally, the Brewmaster's Castle. The National Register of Historic Places recognizes the Heurich House as one of DC's most unique landmarks. Born at the end of the Victorian era, the house museum proves that the American dream, although ambitious, is achievable. Christian Heurich's Lager Beer brewery was established near what is now the site of the Kennedy Center and the entrance to the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Bridge. Despite the economic depression of 1873 and Prohibition of 1917, Heurich's business thrived thanks to his hard work. He inherited the land for his permanent residence from his first wife, after her death in 1884. 1307 New Hampshire Avenue was intended to be the location of the Heurich mansion. Heurich wanted his residence to be a reflection of his distinguished business success and his abundant contributions to his community. He stayed true to his humble beginnings and hired only German-Americans to build his dream home. John Granville Meyers, a local expert in fireproof construction, was hired to design and build the massive mansion. Heurich's personal experience with fires at his brewery undoubtedly influenced his decision to implement advanced construction techniques in the construction of his home. Heurich's 13,000 square foot mansion was the first fireproof structure built in the middle of paper......his own brewery and securing his own business. He became one of the most successful and longest-serving brewers, working nearly eighteen hours a day, eventually increasing his production twenty-fold. The nouveau riche's interior and exterior reflect his wealth and desire for renowned heritage. His home is a monument to his success and a source of inspiration to all who visit it. Works Cited Harris, Donna Ann. New Solutions for House Museums: Ensuring the Long-Term Preservation of Historic American Homes. Lanham, MD: AltaMira, 2007. Print. Shireman, Candace S. The Rise of the Christian Heurich Mansion: A Study of the Interior Design and Furnishings of the Christian Heurich Mansion from the Columbian Historical Society, Washington, DC, 1894-1914. 1989. Print. “Heurich House Museum. » Heurich House. Foundation of Maison Heurich. Internet. November 12. 2011. .