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Pond Spring, the General Joe Wheeler Home

Step back in time at Pond Spring, the historic home of General Joe Wheeler, and explore 19th-century life in Alabama.

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Explore the historic home and grounds of General Joe Wheeler, a Confederate General, U.S. Congressman, and Spanish-American War General. Pond Spring offers a glimpse into 19th-century life with original furnishings, outbuildings, and beautiful gardens. Discover the stories of the Wheeler family and their contributions to Alabama's history.

A brief summary to Pond Spring, the General Joe Wheeler Home

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds include areas of rough terrain.
  • Call ahead to schedule a group tour and confirm tour times.
  • Visit during the annual General Joe Wheeler's Birthday Celebration in September for special events.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Pond Spring is located at 12280 State Hwy 20, Hillsboro, AL 35643, about 3 miles east of Courtland, Alabama, on the south side of AL-20 (alternate US-72). From Decatur, it's approximately 15 miles west on AL-20. Limited parking is available on-site. Be aware that AL-20 is a highway, so plan your route accordingly.

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Discover more about Pond Spring, the General Joe Wheeler Home

Pond Spring, also known as the General Joe Wheeler Home, is a historic 50-acre site located in Hillsboro, Alabama. This landmark was once the residence of Joseph Wheeler, a significant figure who served as a Major General in the Confederate Army, a U.S. Congressman, and a Major General in the Spanish-American War. Known as “Fightin’ Joe,” Wheeler became a symbol of reunification after the Civil War. The property features 12 historic buildings, gardens, and archaeological sites dating back nearly 5,000 years. Visitors can explore the Wheeler House, built in the 1870s, which showcases the family's original furniture, artifacts, and memorabilia. The site also includes a dogtrot log house from around 1818 and a Federal-style house built circa 1830. Other notable features include eight farm-related outbuildings, family and African-American cemeteries, a small Native American mound, and a spring-fed pond. Pond Spring offers guided tours where you can learn about the history of the Wheeler family and their impact on Alabama. Annie Wheeler, the General's daughter, served as a Red Cross nurse in three wars and lived in the house until her death in 1955. The site is currently undergoing restoration and preservation work managed by the Alabama Historical Commission.

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