Richards-DAR House Museum: A Mobile Masterpiece
Explore Mobile's opulent past at the Richards-DAR House Museum, an Italianate masterpiece showcasing antebellum elegance and period furnishings.
The Richards-DAR House Museum, located in Mobile's De Tonti Square Historic District, is a testament to the city's rich history and architectural beauty. Completed in 1860 for Captain Charles G. Richards and his wife, Caroline, this Italianate-style townhouse remained a family residence until 1946. The house is noted as one of Mobile's best-preserved and most elaborate examples of mid-19th-century domestic architecture. The exterior of the two-story brick house features an elaborate cast-iron veranda with allegorical figures representing the four seasons. Inside, visitors can admire the curved staircase, marble mantels, original bronze chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The museum is furnished with period antiques, offering a glimpse into upper-class residential life in 19th-century Mobile. The house remained in the Richards family until 1946 when it was sold to the Ideal Cement Company. After operating as a business, the Ideal Cement Company donated it to the City of Mobile. The four local chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) have operated the house as a museum since 1973. Complimentary tea and cookies are offered with every tour.
Local tips
- Enjoy complimentary tea and cookies in Caroline's Closet Gift Shop after your tour.
- Check the museum's calendar for special events like Christmas celebrations and garden parties.
- Tours typically last about 45 minutes, so plan your visit accordingly.
A brief summary to Richards-DAR House Museum
- 256 N Joachim St, Mobile, Central Business District, Alabama, 36603, US
- +1251-208-7320
Getting There
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Walking
The Richards-DAR House Museum is located in downtown Mobile, easily accessible on foot from many nearby hotels and attractions. From Bienville Square, walk north on N Joachim St for approximately 2 blocks. The museum will be on your left.
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Public Transport
Mobile's Wave Transit System offers bus routes that stop near the Richards-DAR House Museum. From the Joe S Cain Transit Center, take any route heading north on N Joachim St. Alight at the Joachim and Conti Street stop; the museum will be on your left. A single ride fare is $1.25.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Mobile. Request a ride to 256 N Joachim St, Mobile, AL 36603. The fare from downtown Mobile should be approximately $8-$12, depending on traffic and demand.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 256 N Joachim St, Mobile, AL 36603. Street parking is available near the museum, but it can be limited. Several parking lots are also located within a few blocks. Parking rates vary, with some lots charging around $4 for 2 hours.
