The Rothschild House
Open seasonally in partnership with Washington State Parks, the 1868 Rothschild House offers a unique experience that transports visitors to late 19th- and early 20th-century Port Townsend.
Unlike many historic houses that carefully curate and stage non-original items to recreate the past, the Rothschild House stands out as an authentic time capsule, preserving the original furnishings, belongings, and atmosphere of a bygone era.
Address
418 Taylor Street
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Open Hours
Thursday - Saturday, 11AM - 4PM
April 17 - September 13
Admission
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FREE for JCHS Members, Youth (under 17), NARM, and ROAM Members
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Adults: $9
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Seniors (65+): $7
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Military: $7
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Click here for other ways to access the Museum for free.
Free First Saturdays
The first Saturday of each month is free for all visitors.
Reciprocal Admission
Rothschild House admission includes admission to the Museum of Art + History.
123-456-7890
500 Terry Francine Street
San Francisco, CA 94158
Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm
​​Saturday: 10am - 2pm
​Sunday: Closed
Accessibility
The interior of the house is two levels that are only accessible by stairs. The park grounds are all at street level.
Parking & Restrooms
No public restroom. Limited free parking is available in the public lot onsite. Neighboring streets may be congested during Saturday farmers markets, festivals, and parades.
Park Grounds Access
Open year-round for day use, closes at dusk.
The Rothschild Family
A Legacy of Perseverance and Community
The Rothschild House stands as a testament to resilience and determination as it shares the story of the Rothschild family, some of Port Townsend’s early settlers.
D.C.H. Rothschild, a Bavarian immigrant, arrived in Port Townsend in 1859 and established the town’s first general mercantile. Later, he transitioned to specializing in ship cargo handling—a business his descendants continue to operate today in Seattle as Jones Stevedoring.
In 1863, D.C.H. married Dorette, an immigrant from Germany. Together, they built a family and a life in their Port Townsend home. However, tragedy struck in 1886 when D.C.H.’s untimely death left Dorette with five young children and the family business to manage. Demonstrating remarkable strength, she not only raised her children but also successfully maintained the household and the family’s livelihood.
Emilie, the second youngest of the Rothschild children, cared for her mother until Dorette’s passing in 1918. Emilie continued to live in the family home until her own death in 1954, preserving the furnishings and character of the house much as they were during her upbringing. Known for hosting lively gatherings filled with guests and pets, Emilie ensured the home remained vibrant and welcoming.
In 1959, Eugene, the youngest Rothschild sibling, deeded the house and its contents to Washington State Parks. Thanks to this generous gift, visitors can step into the Rothschild House today and experience an authentic glimpse into the life of this extraordinary family and the heritage of Port Townsend.
About the Rothschild House:
A Reflection of Simplicity and Resilience
Built in 1868, the Greek-revival style Rothschild House was designed and built by celebrated local architect and craftsman Horace Tucker. Unlike the elaborate Victorian homes that define Uptown Port Townsend, the Rothschild House reflects a more understated aesthetic, aligning with the family’s practical values and lifestyle.
Since 1999, JCHS has proudly managed the Rothschild House in partnership with Washington State Parks. Our role includes preserving the house, interpreting its rich history, and maintaining its contents—many of which remain unchanged since the 19th century. We also collaborate with Washington State Parks and the living descendants of the Rothschild family to ensure this historic home continues to tell its story for generations to come.
Help Keep the Rothschild House Alive for Future Generations
Your support ensures the Rothschild House remains a beautifully preserved piece of Port Townsend’s history. Donations directly contribute to the care of this historic treasure, from maintaining its 19th-century charm to offering engaging programs that bring its stories to life.
Join us in preserving the legacy of the Rothschild family and the heritage of Jefferson County.