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Raphael Semmes House: A Glimpse into Civil War History
Explore the legacy of Confederate Admiral Raphael Semmes at his historic Mobile home, a blend of Federal and Greek Revival architecture.
The Raphael Semmes House, located on Government Street in Mobile, Alabama, was home to Raphael Semmes, a prominent figure in the Confederate States Navy during the Civil War. Built in 1858, this historic residence showcases a blend of Federal and Greek Revival architectural styles. Although often not open for tours, its well-preserved exterior makes it a worthwhile stop for those exploring Mobile's historical landmarks.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Raphael Semmes House
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
804 Government St, Mobile, Central Business District, Alabama, 36602, US
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Getting There
Walking
From Bienville Square, walk west on Government Street for approximately 0.3 miles (about 6-8 minutes). The Raphael Semmes House will be on your right, just past the First Baptist Church. Look for the white-painted brick building with a cast-iron porch at 804 Government Street.
Public Transport
The Wave Transit System has several routes that stop near Government Street. Check the Wave Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. From the nearest Wave Transit stop on Government Street, walk west until you reach 804 Government Street. A single ride fare is $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Mobile. Request a ride to 804 Government Street. The fare from downtown Mobile (e.g., the cruise terminal or a downtown hotel) typically ranges from $8 to $15, depending on traffic and demand.
Driving
From I-10, take the Water Street exit and head north. Turn right onto Government Street and continue east. The Raphael Semmes House will be on your left. Limited street parking is available on Government Street, metered at $1 per hour. Several parking garages and lots are also located within a few blocks, with hourly rates typically ranging from $3 to $10.
Local tips
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Check with the First Baptist Church of Mobile for potential limited tour availability, as they own and maintain the property.
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Combine your visit with a walk along Government Street to admire other historic buildings and landmarks in Mobile's downtown area.
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Visit the History Museum of Mobile to learn more about Raphael Semmes and the city's Civil War history.
Discover more about Raphael Semmes House
The Raphael Semmes House, also known as the Horta-Semmes House, stands as a testament to Mobile's rich and complex history. Located at 804 Government Street, this historic residence is best known as the home of Raphael Semmes from 1871 until his death in 1877. Semmes was a prominent figure in the Confederate States Navy, most notably as captain of the commerce raider CSS Alabama.The house itself was constructed in 1858 by Peter Horta, showcasing 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. 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.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. Today, while the Raphael Semmes House may not always be open for public tours, its well-preserved exterior and historical significance make it a worthwhile stop for those exploring Mobile's architectural and historical landmarks. Visitors can admire the house's architectural details, reflect on the life of Raphael Semmes, and consider the complex legacy of the Civil War in the South.
A brief summary to Raphael Semmes House
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