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Old Rock House: A Stone Sentinel of Alabama History

Discover Alabama's architectural heritage at the Old Rock House, a unique and historic 1835 stone dwelling in Harpersville.

The Old Rock House in Harpersville is a rare and well-preserved example of early 19th-century stone architecture in Alabama [3, 4]. Built around 1835, this historic home stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and building techniques of the past [3, 9].

A brief summary to Old Rock House

Local tips

  • The Old Rock House is located on private property, so viewing is limited to the exterior only.
  • Visit during daylight hours for the best visibility of the house's architectural details.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to other nearby attractions, such as the Kymulga Mill & Covered Bridge.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Old Rock House is located about 1 mile southeast of Harpersville [3]. From US Highway 280, turn onto Larkin Lane, a farm road [3, 9]. Follow the lane to the end; the house will be on the northern side [3]. There is no cost for access [9].

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Discover more about Old Rock House

Nestled in a wooded, rural setting near Harpersville, Alabama, the Old Rock House offers a glimpse into the state's unique architectural heritage [9]. Constructed circa 1835, the house distinguishes itself as the only surviving example of an early stone dwelling in Alabama [3]. The house was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006 and the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage in 1992 [3, 4]. The Old Rock House is built of locally quarried grey granite and limestone [3, 4, 9]. Its sturdy construction features thick walls, a side-gable roof, and interior end chimneys [8, 9]. The house's design incorporates elements of Late Georgian and Early Republic architectural styles [4]. The interior features four rooms, two on each floor, connected by a box stair [8, 9]. Though the original owner remains a mystery, historical records suggest William Condon, a prosperous farmer, held the property in the early 1840s [8]. Another possible candidate for the builder and architect is Timothy Cullins, an Irish-born stonemason [8]. Today, the Old Rock House stands as a reminder of Alabama's rich past and the enduring legacy of its early settlers [10].

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