Erected circa 1798 in the Federal style, Bentley House was the first substantial structure built in Brookeville. In 1814 it was the home of Caleb and Henrietta Bentley. Caleb, the town's first postmaster and a merchant, maintained a separate post office and store wing in the house. He was also a watch- and clock-maker, engraver, silversmith, and investor who helped finance many of Brookeville's homes and industries. On August 26, 1814, President Madison and his advisors took refuge there during the British invasion of the nation's capital.
