Bragg-Mitchell Mansion: A Glimpse into the Old South
Step back in time at Mobile's Bragg-Mitchell Mansion, a beautifully preserved example of Greek Revival architecture and Southern history.
The Bragg-Mitchell Mansion, an architectural icon of the Old South, stands as a testament to a bygone era of gracious living in Mobile, Alabama. Built in 1855 by Judge John Bragg, this 13,000-square-foot Greek Revival mansion was designed to host the city's lively social season, from Thanksgiving through Mardi Gras. The mansion is canopied by a grove of century-old oaks and furnished with fine antiques and crystal chandeliers. The mansion's history is intertwined with the Civil War. During the war, all the live oak trees on the property were cut down to give Confederate defenders a clear line of fire. The furnishings were removed and sent to Bragg's plantation in Lowndes County, only to be burned by Wilson's Raiders. The house remained in the Bragg family until 1880 and later passed through several owners. In the late 1970s, it was generously donated to the Explore Center with the intention of becoming a science museum. However, the Explore Center decided to build a separate science museum and instead renovated the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion to its antebellum grandeur. It reopened to the public in 1987 as a historic house museum and event center. Today, the mansion is available for weddings, receptions, parties, showers, dinners, and corporate functions. Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion and learn about its history and architecture. The mansion is also one of the most photographed buildings in Mobile.
Local tips
- Check the mansion's website for special events or seasonal tours for a unique perspective on the house and its history.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking both inside the mansion and in the gardens.
- Consider visiting during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and beautiful blooms in the gardens.
A brief summary to Bragg-Mitchell Mansion
- 1906 SpringHill Ave, Mobile, Park Place, Alabama, 36607, US
- +1251-471-6364
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Driving
If arriving by car from downtown Mobile, head west on Spring Hill Avenue. The Bragg-Mitchell Mansion is located on Spring Hill Avenue, a well-known thoroughfare. Parking is available on-site, but it can be limited during peak season. Consider arriving early to secure a spot. Alternatively, street parking is available on nearby streets. Expect to pay around $5 for parking on site.
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Public Transport
The Wave Transit System offers bus routes that stop near the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion. Check the Wave's website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. From the downtown Mobile Transit Center, take the bus that services Spring Hill Avenue. Get off at a stop within a few blocks of the mansion and walk the remaining distance. A single ride fare is $1.25.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From downtown Mobile, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. The ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between $15-$20.
