Kenworthy Hall, Coosa Valley Travel Guide

Kenworthy Hall, situated just west of Marion, Alabama, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the antebellum South. Constructed between 1858 and 1860 for Edward Kenworthy Carlisle, a successful cotton factor, this plantation house is a remarkable example of Richard Upjohn's Italian Villa style, adapted to the Southern climate and lifestyle.The mansion's design is characterized by its asymmetrical layout, a towering four-story tower, and intricate brownstone detailing. Inside, a spacious cross-hall divides the home, separating family spaces from public areas, a design element crucial for Southern living. The interior boasts soaring ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and period furnishings, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Carlisle family and those who were enslaved on the property.Throughout its history, Kenworthy Hall has been carefully maintained, with renovations focused on modernization while preserving its historical integrity. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990 and declared a National Historic Landmark in 2004. The house even has a ghost story featured in Kathryn Tucker Windham's book, "13 Alabama Ghosts and Jeffrey", adding to its mystique.Today, Kenworthy Hall is a privately owned residence, but it welcomes visitors for tours and special events. The grounds, though reduced from their original 440 acres, still offer a glimpse of the estate's former grandeur, with remnants of terraced gardens and mature trees.