Built in 1777, the Hessian Powder Magazine is a stone walled structure, which is lined with interior brick. It measures seventy feet by thirty-two feet with walls that are four-and-one-half-feet thick. It also has a vaulted stone roof, which is covered by timbers and tin, creating a gable form.[2]
Tradition says that Hessian prisoners of war, who were captured during the Battle of Trenton were sent to Carlisle, and used to build this guard house, which was originally a magazine. It may have first been used as a guardhouse during the 1870s, and also as part of the Carlisle Indian Industrial School (1879–1918).[2]
Afterwards, it was used as a quartermaster and medical supply storehouse, filmstrip laboratory, message center, and U.S. post office.[2]
