When the Commandant's House is completed in 1796, it first serves as a Citadel, an inner defense system should the enemy penetrate the walls. In the 1830s, it is converted into a residence for the commander as well as a headquarters for the fort administrations. It is a two-story home where the commander and his family live. The top story holds rooms for servants. On the first floor are the family's living room, an office, a great room where military business is conducted, and living space for the commandant and his family, all to one side of the building. On the other side of the first floor is the kitchen and various small rooms for service purposes. The two fireplaces that can still be seen today are of unique design. One, on the servant's side, has openings on two sides, including the kitchen. On the residential side of the house, the fireplace has openings on four sides to heat the many rooms for the commandant and his family.