Background

Gaineswood: A Step Back in Time

Explore Gaineswood, a beautifully preserved Greek Revival mansion in Demopolis, AL, offering a unique glimpse into 19th-century plantation life.

4.7

Gaineswood is a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture in Demopolis, Alabama. Built between 1843 and 1861 by Nathan Bryan Whitfield, this National Historic Landmark offers a glimpse into 19th-century plantation life with its elaborate interior, original furnishings, and beautiful gardens.

A brief summary to Gaineswood

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a less crowded experience and a more intimate tour of the mansion.
  • Check the Gaineswood website or call ahead to confirm tour times and special event schedules.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the house and grounds, including the gardens and outdoor areas.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    Gaineswood is located at 805 S Cedar Ave, Demopolis, AL. From Highway 80, turn onto Cedar Avenue. The mansion will be on the right after three blocks. There is no fee for parking.

  • Walking

    From downtown Demopolis, head south on Cedar Avenue. Walk for approximately 10-15 minutes. Gaineswood will be on the right. There are sidewalks along Cedar Avenue.

Unlock the Best of Gaineswood

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Gaineswood

Gaineswood, located in Demopolis, Alabama, stands as the grandest plantation house ever constructed in Marengo County and a remarkable illustration of Greek Revival architecture in the state. The mansion's story began in 1843 when Nathan Bryan Whitfield, a cotton planter and self-taught architect, started transforming a simple dogtrot cabin into the magnificent structure you see today. The construction spanned eighteen years, concluding in 1861, just before the Civil War. Whitfield drew inspiration from architectural pattern books by renowned figures like Minard Lafever, incorporating unique details such as elaborate interior suites with domed ceilings. The house uniquely blends all three ancient Greek architectural orders: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. Skilled enslaved and free African-American workers, along with traveling artists, contributed to the construction. Notably, John Gibson, who designed stained glass for the U.S. Capitol, created art glass transoms depicting classical scenes for Gaineswood. Today, Gaineswood is a historic house museum operated by the Alabama Historical Commission and supported by the Friends of Gaineswood. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored rooms filled with the Whitfield family's original antebellum furnishings and decorative arts, offering a captivating glimpse into 19th-century family life. The grounds also feature formal gardens, picnic tables and a gazebo.

Popular Experiences near Gaineswood

Popular Hotels near Gaineswood

Select Currency