Background

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

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

4.8

Discover the life and art of Maria Howard Weeden at the Weeden House Museum and Garden, a beautifully preserved 19th-century home in Huntsville's historic Twickenham District. This Federal-style house, built in 1819, showcases the legacy of Weeden, a celebrated artist and poet known for her portraits of African Americans.

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 based on event rentals.
  • Note that the museum only accepts cash or PayPal for admission.
  • Explore the surrounding Twickenham Historic District, known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture.
widget icon

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.

Unlock the Best of Weeden House Museum and Garden

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Weeden House Museum and Garden

The Weeden House Museum and Garden, nestled in the heart of Huntsville's Twickenham Historic District, stands as a captivating testament to the city's rich history and the artistic legacy of Maria Howard Weeden. Constructed in 1819, this Federal-style house has witnessed significant moments in American history and served as home to several distinguished early Huntsvillians, including John McKinley, an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. The house's architecture is a prime example of Federal design, boasting a leaded glass entrance fanlight, a spiral staircase, and hand-carved mantels that reflect the craftsmanship of the era. These details offer visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Weeden family and their contemporaries. Maria Howard Weeden, born in the house in 1846, spent most of her life within its walls. Despite limited formal training, she developed a remarkable talent for watercolor portraits and poetry. Her works often depicted the lives and characters of former slaves, capturing their dignity, humor, and philosophical outlook. Weeden's art provided a window into a changing South, offering a nuanced perspective on race relations and the human spirit. During the Civil War, the house was requisitioned by Federal officers. 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. The gardens provide a serene setting for reflection and appreciation, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the site. Today, the Weeden House Museum and Garden is owned by the City of Huntsville and leased 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 our cultural heritage.

Popular Experiences near Weeden House Museum and Garden

Popular Hotels near Weeden House Museum and Garden

Select Currency