Episode 9 - Tracie Liberatore

History isn't just preserved at the Bradford House—it's brought to life. In this episode of WashCo Insider, Chase McClain sits down with Tracie Liberatore, Executive Director of the Bradford House Historical Association, to discuss her unexpected journey from corporate banking to museum leadership, the enduring legacy of David Bradford and the Whiskey Rebellion, and how the Bradford House has become a cornerstone of heritage tourism in Washington County. Tracie also shares an inside look at the Whiskey Rebellion Festival, the largest event of the year for the organization, featuring historical reenactments, live music, educational programming, and thousands of visitors celebrating one of the most important moments in early American history.

From Banking to the Bradford House: Preserving Washington County's Revolutionary Story

Some careers are carefully planned. Others unfold in unexpected ways.

For Tracie Liberatore, Executive Director and CEO of the Bradford House Historical Association, a career in museum leadership was never part of the original plan. Armed with degrees in finance and management, she spent nearly two decades working in banking before a corporate acquisition changed everything. Looking for a way to prioritize family while remaining professionally engaged, she accepted what she believed would be a small part-time role helping a local museum with reporting and administrative work.

Fifteen years later, she's leading one of Washington County's most important historic organizations.

More Than a Museum

Today, the Bradford House Historical Association encompasses much more than a single historic home.

At the center of the story is the Bradford House itself, a National Historic Landmark built in 1788 for attorney David Bradford. The home remains one of the most significant surviving structures from Washington's frontier era and serves as a gateway to understanding one of the most important events in early American history—the Whiskey Rebellion.

As Tracie explains, David Bradford became a leader in the Whiskey Rebellion, a movement sparked by the federal excise tax on whiskey. The conflict produced several historic firsts, including the nation's first excise tax, the first use of federal troops by the United States government, and the first presidential pardon.

Bringing History to Life

Visitors to downtown Washington can experience this history in multiple ways.

Across the street from the Bradford House sits the Whiskey Rebellion Education and Visitor Center, which opened in 2019 to provide a deeper dive into the broader story of the rebellion. Together, the two sites offer visitors both an immersive historic home experience and a museum-style interpretation of the events that helped shape the young nation.

Beyond the buildings themselves, the Bradford House grounds feature beautifully maintained gardens, an outdoor kitchen cabin, educational exhibits, cooking demonstrations, and public programming designed to make eighteenth-century life accessible to modern audiences.

A Year-Round Educational Mission

While many visitors know the Bradford House for its tours, education remains at the heart of the organization's mission.

The association hosts field trips, homeschool programming, workshops, lectures, a history symposium, and special events throughout the year. In 2025 alone, the organization welcomed more than 12,000 visitors and offered over 50 educational programs. The growing homeschool community has become an especially important audience as families seek hands-on learning opportunities that align with Pennsylvania educational standards.

The Whiskey Rebellion Festival

Of course, no conversation about the Bradford House would be complete without discussing the Whiskey Rebellion Festival.

Held annually during the second weekend of July, the festival has grown into one of Washington County's signature events. What began in 2010 as part of Washington's Bicentennial celebration has evolved into a multi-day experience featuring historical reenactors, educational exhibits, children's activities, living history demonstrations, music, local vendors, and the beloved Historic Street Theater performances that recreate key moments from the rebellion.

One of the festival's most popular attractions is the Friday evening Whiskey & Spirits Walk, where attendees can sample spirits from distilleries and producers throughout downtown Washington while supporting local businesses and tourism.

This year's festival will also feature expanded veteran participation, new historical exhibits, and an impressive musical lineup headlined by Pittsburgh favorites, The Clarks.

Preserving the Past for Future Generations

From preserving a National Historic Landmark to educating thousands of visitors each year, Tracie Liberatore and her team continue to ensure that Washington County's revolutionary history remains relevant and accessible.

Their work reminds us that history isn't just something found in textbooks. It's woven into the streets, buildings, and stories that surround us every day.

And nowhere is that more evident than at the Bradford House.