Bettie Hunter House, Mobile Bay Travel Guide

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Discover the inspiring story of Bettie Hunter, a former slave who became a successful businesswoman in Mobile, Alabama.

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Bettie Hunter House

The Bettie Hunter House in Mobile, Alabama, stands as a symbol of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Built in 1878 by Bettie Hunter, a formerly enslaved African American woman who became a successful businesswoman, the house is a testament to her remarkable life and achievements.

A brief summary to Bettie Hunter House

504 St Francis St, Mobile, Central Business District, Alabama, 36602, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bettie Hunter House.

While the house is a private residence, take a moment to appreciate its historical significance from the street.
Explore the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail to discover other important historical sites in Mobile related to African American history.
Visit the nearby Mobile Carnival Museum and the History Museum of Mobile to gain a broader understanding of the city's cultural heritage.

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Explore Bettie Hunter House on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

If you are in downtown Mobile, start near Bienville Square. Walk east on St. Francis Street. The Bettie Hunter House is located at 504 St. Francis Street, approximately a 5-minute walk from the square.
Public Transport

The Wave Transit System provides bus service in Mobile. From the Mobile Bay transit station, take the Route 10 bus towards Spring Hill College. Get off at the stop at St Francis St and Government St. From there, walk east on St Francis St for about 0.2 miles, and you will see Bettie Hunter House at 504 St Francis St on your left. A single ride fare is $1.25.
Driving

If driving, navigate to the intersection of St. Francis Street and Jackson Street in downtown Mobile. Note that parking in the immediate vicinity can be limited. Metered street parking is available for $1.00 per hour. Several parking garages and lots are also located within a few blocks, with rates varying.

Discover more about Bettie Hunter House

The Bettie Hunter House, located on St. Francis Street in downtown Mobile, Alabama, is a historic landmark that embodies the inspiring story of Bettie Hunter. Born into slavery in Dallas County, Alabama, in 1852, Bettie Hunter moved to Mobile after the Civil War and, with her brother Henry, established a thriving carriage business. Recognizing the opportunities in the transportation of goods from the bustling port, she cornered the market and became a successful businesswoman in a time when such achievements were extraordinary for women, especially Black women.In 1878, at the age of 27, Bettie Hunter commissioned the construction of her two-story Italianate house, reflecting her hard-earned success and social standing. The house's architecture, characterized by its elaborate detailing and symmetrical design, mirrors the style of affluent residences in Mobile during the late 19th century. Tragically, Bettie Hunter passed away from anemia in 1879, just a year after her house was completed. The house was left to her family, and it has been owned by women in her family ever since.Today, the Bettie Hunter House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a stop on the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail. While the house is a private residence and is not open for public tours, its exterior serves as a powerful reminder of hope, perseverance, and the pursuit of the American dream. The house was partially damaged by Hurricane Frederic in 1979, and there are hopes to restore it for use as an event space or art gallery.