Raphael Semmes House: A Mobile Landmark

The Raphael Semmes House, also known as the Horta-Semmes House, stands as a testament to Mobile's intricate past. Located on Government Street, this historic residence is most famous for being the home of Raphael Semmes, a prominent figure in the Confederate States Navy during the American Civil War. Semmes, who captained the commerce raider CSS Alabama, resided in this house from 1871 until he passed away in 1877, making it a significant landmark for those interested in Civil War history and Mobile's role in the Confederacy. The house itself was constructed in 1858 by Peter Horta, displaying a blend of Federal and Greek Revival architectural styles. The two-story townhouse is built of white-painted brick and features a symmetrical facade typical of the Federal style. The addition of a Greek Revival-style doorway and surround adds a touch of classical elegance. A full-width cast-iron porch, added in the 1870s, graces the ground floor, its intricate floral design motif enhancing the building's aesthetic appeal. Inside, the layout reveals a stair hall with a mahogany stairway featuring turned spindles. The stair hall opens onto a parlor and dining room on the first floor, and three bedrooms on the second floor. The parlor and dining room retain their original fireplace mantles of cut-and-polished black marble, adding to the home's historic charm. A two-story rear ell addition, once the service wing, houses a kitchen and storage room on the first floor, and two servant rooms on the second. In 1946, Joseph Linyer Bedsole and his wife donated the house to the adjacent First Baptist Church of Mobile in memory of their son, Lt. Joseph Linyer Bedsole Jr., who was killed in action during World War II. While the house may not always be open for public tours, its well-preserved exterior and historical significance make it a worthwhile stop.