Jumpin Java Alumni

07/31/2026

06/12/2026

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Located on Washington Street, the Sadler Building remains a commanding visual presence in Charles Town today. Built in the 1870s or 1880s, the two-story brick structure is divided into three sections by brick pilasters, or flat projections intended to give the impression of columns.

The building reflects the influence of the Italianate style, which was popular in American commercial architecture during the mid-to-late 19th century. Common Italianate features include tall, narrow windows, decorative window hoods, prominent cornices, and the use of pilasters to create a more formal and visually imposing façade. These elements helped give commercial buildings an appearance of elegance and permanence.

The building was owned by the L. L. Sadler family, who operated a cabinetmaking shop. In the 19th century, when carpenters and cabinetmakers often crafted both furniture and caskets, it was not uncommon for a business to do both. L. L. Sadler was no exception.

Before moving into this larger building, Sadler operated from a smaller shop in Charles Town. There, in 1859, he made the coffin for John Brown and used the company's freight wagon to transport Brown to his ex*****on.

06/06/2026

Ashleigh and her beautiful family