Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion, Coosa Valley Travel Guide

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Explore Tuscaloosa's history at the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion, a beautifully preserved Italianate landmark showcasing pre-Civil War opulence and innovation.

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Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion

The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is an Italianate-style home built in the late 1850s for State Senator Robert Jemison Jr. Showcasing pre-Civil War wealth and innovation, it features period furnishings and offers guided tours.

A brief summary to Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion

1305 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 35401, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion.

Check the Historic Tuscaloosa website for the most up-to-date tour schedule and special events.
Allow at least 45 minutes for a guided tour to fully appreciate the mansion's history and architecture.
Guest parking is located on the right side of the mansion, accessible off 14th Street.
Consider combining your visit with a tour of other nearby historic sites, such as the Battle-Friedman House.

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Explore Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion is a short walk south of downtown Tuscaloosa. Head south on Greensboro Avenue from the downtown area. The mansion will be on your left, set back from the road. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes. There are sidewalks along Greensboro Avenue. There are no costs associated with walking.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Tuscaloosa. Request a ride to the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion at 1305 Greensboro Avenue. A typical ride from downtown Tuscaloosa will cost approximately $8-$14, depending on the service and time of day.
Driving

From downtown Tuscaloosa, take Greensboro Avenue south. The mansion is located at 1305 Greensboro Avenue. Guest parking is located on the right side of the mansion, accessible off 14th Street. Parking is free.

Discover more about Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion

The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion, located at 1305 Greensboro Avenue in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, offers a glimpse into the lives of the elite in the pre-Civil War South. Constructed between 1859 and 1862 for Robert Jemison Jr., a prominent state senator and businessman, the mansion stands as a testament to the wealth and aspirations of the era.Designed by Philadelphia architect John Stewart, the Italianate-style mansion was considered state-of-the-art for its time. It incorporated the latest innovations, including an elaborate plumbing system with running water, flush toilets, and a copper bathtub, some of the earliest modern plumbing in the state. The house also featured gas lighting, a hot water boiler, and a unique system for keeping food fresh. Fourteen different types of wood, mostly from Jemison's land holdings, were used in the construction, showcasing the region's natural resources.After remaining in the Jemison family for several generations, the mansion served as Tuscaloosa's public library from 1955 to 1979. Today, it operates as a historic house museum, offering guided tours that explore the Jemison family history, the mansion's architecture, and Tuscaloosa's past. Visitors can view portraits and memorabilia of the Jemison family, and sit in the family's original antique chairs. The mansion is also a popular venue for weddings and events. Some visitors have reported unexplained occurrences, attributing them to the spirits of Jemison's daughter and her husband, who tragically died in the mansion.The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion Foundation acquired the house in 1991 and has worked to restore the home to its original splendor. Free tours are offered Tuesday through Saturday at 3:30 pm. Group and school tours are also available by appointment.