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Weeden House Museum and Garden: A Glimpse into Huntsville's Past

Discover Huntsville's history through the eyes of artist Maria Howard Weeden in her beautifully preserved 1819 home and gardens.

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Step back in time at the Weeden House Museum and Garden, a beautifully preserved 19th-century home in Huntsville's historic Twickenham District. Explore the life and art of Maria Howard Weeden, a celebrated artist and poet, and discover the stories within this captivating landmark.

A brief summary to Weeden House Museum and Garden

  • Tuesday 10 am-11 am
  • Wednesday 10 am-11 am
  • Thursday 10 am-11 am
  • Friday 10 am-11 am
  • Saturday 10 am-11 am

Local tips

  • Check the Weeden House Museum website or call ahead for the most up-to-date tour schedule, as hours can vary.
  • Explore the Twickenham Historic District, where the Weeden House is located, to see other examples of stunning 19th-century architecture.
  • Consider visiting during a special event or tour for a more immersive experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Huntsville/Madison County Visitor Center on Church Street in downtown Huntsville, the Weeden House Museum is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk. Head southeast, using the First National Bank building as a landmark, towards Gates Avenue SE. The museum is located at 300 Gates Avenue SE, easily identifiable by its historic architecture and garden. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 300 Gates Avenue SE, Huntsville, AL 35801. From major routes like Governor's Drive (US-431), turn onto side streets like Greene Street to access Gates Avenue. Limited street parking is available near the museum. Metered parking can be found on nearby streets like Williams Street and Church Street. Use the Passport Parking app to pay for metered parking. Parking rates typically range from $1-$2 per hour. Alternatively, paid parking is available in the city's garage under the Truist bank building, a few blocks away.

  • Public Transport

    Huntsville's public transportation system, Orbit, provides bus service throughout the city. Check the Huntsville Transit website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the Huntsville Transit Center on Pratt Avenue, you can take a bus towards downtown and disembark at a stop within walking distance of the museum. A single ride fare is $1.25.

Unlock the Best of Weeden House Museum and Garden

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Discover more about Weeden House Museum and Garden

The Weeden House Museum and Garden, nestled in the heart of Huntsville's Twickenham Historic District, offers visitors an intimate encounter with 19th-century life and the artistic legacy of Maria Howard Weeden. Constructed in 1819 in the Federal architectural style, the house boasts a rich history, having been home to prominent figures such as John McKinley, an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, before becoming the residence of the Weeden family in 1845. The museum is named after Maria Howard Weeden, a celebrated artist and poet born within its walls in 1846. Her artwork, particularly her watercolor portraits of African Americans, captured the essence of Southern life and culture, earning her recognition as a significant figure in American art. Her poems, often written in the dialect of her subjects, further enriched her portrayals, offering insights into their character, humor, and philosophy of life. Her books were published by Doubleday, McClure and Company. Joel Chandler Harris, creator of "Uncle Remus," referred to Miss Weeden as "the bright light of the nineteenth century". The Weeden House itself is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and architectural details. The two-story brick structure features an elegant leaded glass entrance fanlight, a gracefully winding spiral staircase, and meticulously hand-carved mantels. Period furnishings adorn the rooms, recreating the atmosphere of a 19th-century home. Visitors can explore the parlors, bedrooms, and other living spaces, gaining a sense of the daily lives of the Weeden family and their contemporaries. The gardens surrounding the Weeden House are an integral part of the museum experience. Maria's mother cultivated a variety of flowers, including heliotrope, peonies, lemon verbena, pinks, hollyhocks, and roses, creating a serene setting for reflection and appreciation. The Weeden House Museum opened to the public in 1981 and is managed by the Twickenham Historic Preservation District Association. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Maria Howard Weeden and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

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