The best camping near Friendship Hill National Historic Site

Discover an unsung hero of a new nation. Albert Gallatin was the Secretary of the Treasury for 13 years under Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. He was instrumental in expanding the interests of the United States as the country moved westward.

Gallatin was a Swiss immigrant who was vital to the progress of America. He authorized the Louisiana Purchase from France, a move that nearly doubled the size of the United States. He also oversaw funding for the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the War of 1812.

The man's life was also filled with disappointments. Gallatin was an amateur architect. He wanted his perfect house in the country. This home in rural Pennsylvania was Gallatin's dream. However, the rest of his family loved city life. The homestead was built in phases starting in 1786. It took 39 years to complete.

Upon returning from a lengthy mission to France, the Treasury Secretary came home to a structure that wasn't up to his standards. He had put his son in charge of the project. His notes and letters from France, it seems, were not detailed enough.

With 35 rooms, the house looks like an idyllic country getaway. You can walk on the grounds thanks to 10 miles of hiking trails. Fall foliage adds more really makes this property pop. This place could be anyone's Garden of Eden, but not Gallatin's. He held himself to a higher standard. Luckily, he ran the Treasury in a similar fashion.